Page 149 of Coordinates of Death

“What?”

“I’m falling in love with you.” He caressed her cheek, his gaze lingering on her lips.

“Good, because the feeling is mutual.” She stood on her tiptoes and kissed him.

A kiss that stole his breath away and promised a future.

Yes, God had brought them through rough times, but in the end, they were stronger. Not only individually, but together.

Stronger beacons in a world of darkness.

Epilogue

Ten months later, Christmas Eve

Aurora adjusted her white-laced veil and hooked her arm through her father’s elbow, bringing him closer. “Are you sure about this, Dad? Leaving the Yukon is a huge step.”

Ross Hunt patted her hand. “Absolutely, sweet girl. There’s nothing left there for me now that you’re moving to Banff with Kord.”

After the Shadow Box Killer and Melissa Roche were arrested, Aurora had done some serious soul-searching. Kordell had stayed in the Yukon for a couple of months. They spent the time dating and getting reacquainted, and their relationship quickly turned serious. Aurora knew then that she wanted to move to Banff, so she put in a request with Hill and Wheeler for a transfer to the detachment there. She figured it would take a while, depending on whether any openings surfaced. Kordell had proposed a month later, and two weeks before their wedding her beloved leader, Staff Sergeant Hill, had surprised her with the news that the corporal at the Banff detachment was retiring and the job was hers, if she wanted it. She couldn’t believe it and had squealed, hugging him. It was like God had given her a special wedding gift or, as she loved to call it, a God kiss.

Thankfully, the team had found ample evidence to convict Dale Driscoll of all the women’s murders. Plus, for a reduced sentence, Melissa had snitched on him, revealing their conversations and his payments for so-called services rendered. Her confession had solidified everything, and the jury had found him guilty on all counts, and he was sentenced to prison without parole. Police had also identified and arrested Dale’s associate for helping him escape. The residents of Sweetwood Falls could rest easy knowing that the Shadow Box Killer wouldn’t be killing any more women.

“I know it’s a big step, Dad. For me too. Leaving Ginny and my coworkers was tough, but my life is with Kord.”

“And mine is with you.” He fingered the object in the middle of her wedding bouquet. “I love this special touch.”

Aurora had requested the florist place a replica of Anna’s favorite bunny in the center of the flower arrangement. “Anna is with us today.”

He pointed to the cross dangling from her neck. “And so is my beloved Pam. Your mom would be so proud of you. Just like I am.”

Tears welled, and Aurora forced them back. “Are you trying to ruin my mascara?” She kissed his cheek. “Thanks, Dad. I love you.”

“You too.”

The harp strummed, her cue to follow her bridesmaids dressed in green and red—Ginny, Hayley, and Oaklynn—down the spiral stairs of the Greene family estate in Ontario. Her fourth bridesmaid—Mic—would watch from the comfort of her fortress. Lord, heal her wound and bring her out someday. Aurora loved getting to know Kordell’s sisters, including his sister-in-law Oaklynn. They were each amazing women—yes, with tough pasts—but stronger for it. Oaklynn and Caleb had announced a week ago that they were expecting their first child. Another God kiss.

Aurora fingered her large copper curls gathered to the side, the waves spilling over one shoulder and trailing down her chest.

Ginny adjusted the lace train of Aurora’s princesslike wedding dress. “Are you ready, my sweet friend?”

“I am. Can’t wait to become Mrs. Greene.” Aurora turned to the ladies. “I’m so happy and honored you’re all here to celebrate with us.”

Hayley raised her cell phone. “Mic is here too.”

Mic waved. “You look stunning, Rory.”

“Thank you. You too.” Even though Mic wasn’t present physically, she was still dressed in her green bridesmaid dress, looking beautiful.

“Let’s do this,” Oaklynn said.

The group descended the staircase adorned with poinsettias among pine and fir branches. Aurora had wanted a Christmas wedding, and Kordell had agreed. They reached the bottom of the stairs, and she caught a glimpse of the decorated tree with twinkling white lights at the front of the large living area. Perfect. Maxwell had had the room cleared, and they set up chairs on each side, creating an aisle with a small stage at the end. Only family and a few close friends were invited to the ceremony. An enormous crowd would be at the reception at the local golf course to celebrate the nuptials. Nothing but the best for the Greene family.

“Pretty, Rory. Pretty, Rory,” Lady Grey mimicked from her decorated cage in the corner.

The group chuckled.

Aurora had wanted Lady there as her substitute flower girl, and Kordell loved the idea.