“That’s correct,” Laurel said. “Did Tommy work on that job?”

Jason sighed. “Both Tommy and Davie assisted with the demolition of the former office, as did I. We work with several contractors, and they often need help, and we’ve needed money for the business. But you’re barking up the wrong tree with Tommy. He’s a good kid.”

“He really is,” Haylee said. “Very helpful and always polite. Whatever you’ve heard about him, if it’s bad, isn’t true.”

Laurel’s mind started drawing connections. “What about Dr. Abigail Caine? Have you done any work for her?” She’d need to speak with her half sister later.

“Never heard of her,” Haylee said. “Is she another victim? Are there actually three instead of two?”

“No. I was just curious,” Laurel said, brushing snow off her jeans.

The door opened and the snow-covered boys stomped inside. “Got the measurements outside,” Tommy said, a notebook in his hand. “We’ll do the inside now, if that’s okay.” His cheek was red as if he’d been hit with a snowball.

Davie wiped snow off his face, and more chunks fell off his jacket. “Then we’ll take you two on. No mercy, man.”

Tommy snorted and moved toward the far corner. “Definitely no mercy.”

* * *

Late that afternoon, Laurel pulled to a stop in Abigail’s driveway; she’d learned the subdivision’s gate code the previous month so hadn’t needed to call ahead. The wind had finally abated, leaving the sky a cyan blue and the sun a mellow yellow that sparkled off the mounds of snow. The driveway and walkway had been shoveled, so she easily approached the front door and rang the bell. It echoed hollowly through the angles and open spaces of the expansive home.

The door opened. “Laurel.” Abigail stood in a yoga outfit with a zippered jacket. “What are you doing here?” Her reddish-brown hair was piled on her head.

“I had a couple of questions for you.” Laurel had wanted to catch her sister by surprise. “I hope I’m not interrupting.”

“You could care less about interrupting,” Abigail said without heat. “Come in.” She opened the door and allowed Laurel inside.

Laurel looked out the wide wall of windows showcasing Snowblood Peak in the background and then removed her jacket and boots. “Did you shovel your walk?”

“No. The homeowners association takes care of it.” Abigail hung up Laurel’s wool coat. “Why did you ask?”

“Just wondering.” She’d contact the association later.