“The lake isn’t that big. Well, it probably is, but sailing across it would be boring after the first run. In the summer, you’d see kayaks, fishing boats with no motors, and paddle boards.” The snow fell in front of the bright headlights shining on the road. “There are two large lodges on either side of the lake where corporate folks have retreats every year.”

She set her coffee aside, not willing to risk the lining of her stomach any more than she already had. “Does Fish and Wildlife stock the lake?”

“Every summer by helicopter,” he said. “It’s fun. Next summer, I’ll bring you along.”

She blinked. That was a kind offer. She’d never seen fish fall from a helicopter before. “I would enjoy that.”

“Good. For now, tell me what you know about this latest death.” He flicked the wipers on faster. “I’m surprised you got the call from our friendly sheriff.”

“I didn’t. Dr. Ortega was called to the scene, and he phoned me on his way out there. He should have just arrived a few minutes ago, I think.” She tightened the ponytail holder she’d put into place to secure her hair as she’d rushed to get ready. “Flowers were left around the body, apparently.”

“Black dahlias?”

Laurel shrugged. “Dr. Ortega didn’t know yet and said the sheriff hadn’t said.” If the sheriff tried to assert jurisdiction, and it looked like the cases were related, she’d have to take it from him. “Perhaps you should take lead on the scene. The Genesis Valley Sheriff didn’t like me during our last case.”

“He didn’t like me, either,” Huck said grimly, passing a silent, dark cabin that looked as if it had been shut down for the winter. “I’d like to think he didn’t respect you because you’re a Fed and not because you’re a woman, but I’m not sure.”

“I’d rather he didn’t disrespect me either way.”

Huck snorted. “Good point. All right, I’ll deal with him if need be.”

“It’s not needed,” she hastened to add. “I just don’t want anything to interfere with the case and finding justice for the victims.”

“I know you can handle yourself, Laurel,” Huck said, turning down a drive that had been marked with a flare on the snowy road.

“Thanks.” She leaned forward to peer at the wooden cabin up ahead. Two patrol cars lit the area with blue and red swirls next to a champagne-colored luxury SUV, a green Jeep Wrangler, an ambulance, and the ME’s van. “Apparently, we’re the last to arrive.” No doubt the sheriff had called everyone else but her.

“Do we have any details?” Huck rolled to a stop next to the ME’s van and cut the engine.