Darkness has fallen. Detective Eric Pederssen stands outside the MacIntyre home, soaked from freezing rain, dangling a large clear bag stuffed with a wet object from one hand. He rings the bell. Art and Heather answer it right away. Shuffling inside, he hands them the water-logged backpack.
Heather’s palms go quickly to her face while Art takes the package. “Come in, Eric, take a seat.”
The detective removes his shoes and coat and heads into the familiar living room. Art and Heather follow, setting the evidence bag on the coffee table. Piled all around the room are stacks of brightly colored materials.
“Yes,” Heather confirms between sobs, “It’s Leila’s.” Her husband’s arm goes around her shoulder. “Definitely. She has that furry owl attached to the handle.”
“There’s some good news,” E
