Chapter 5. Kyler Lange Messer

Willow got out of the car and breathed in the crisp afternoon air. The lodge was beautiful, overlooking the forest and the banks of the Lee River. A pang of sadness came over her, wishing she could have been there with Zoey.

Two officers followed from the car, assigned to accompany Willow for the week. One was a woman named Chelsea. She was two years Willow’s senior. The other officer’s name was Derek. The officers were communicative and put Willow at ease during the drive to Riverlodge.

“Wow, this is amazing,” Chelsea commented.

“How long do we have to stay in a place like this?” Derek chuckled.

“We’re staying in the car, Derek.” Chelsea cleared her throat quietly and then turned to Willow. “Mrs. Anberlin, we’ll be in the car, so you don’t have to worry,” she said.

Willow gasped in surprise. “But why, no, I don’t want to be alone in there.”

“You need time to settle down, Mrs. Anberlin.” Chelsea smiled. “We don’t want to make you uncomfortable.”