2025 Karen Ann Hopkins

All rights reserved.

ISBN: 9798319232250 (paperback)

Books by Karen Ann Hopkins

Serenity’s Plain Secrets (Mystery/Crime Fiction)

in reading order

LAMB TO THE SLAUGHTER

WHISPERS FROM THE DEAD

SECRETS IN THE GRAVE

HIDDEN IN PLAIN SIGHT

PAPER ROSES

FORBIDDEN WAYS (a romantic companion novel)

EVIL IN MY TOWN

UNHOLY GROUND

SWEET REGRETS (a romantic companion novel)

BLOODY TIES

THE WIDOW

WICKED LEGACY

BLOOD ROCK

THE OFFERING

SERENITY

NIGHT SONG

DEVIL’S EYE

LOST SOUL

SINFUL ALLIANCE

PERFECT DEATH

BLOOD CLAN

DEADLY DESIGN (coming in 2025)

SINISTER SUMMER (coming in 2025)

Wings of War (YA Paranormal Romance)

in reading order

EMBERS

GAIA

TEMPEST

ETERNITY

The Temptation Novels (YA Romance)

in reading order

TEMPTATION

BELONGING

FOREVER

DECEPTION

Willow Creek/One Kiss Is All It Takes (in partnership with HarperCollins/One More Chapter)

The Fortuna Coin (Psychological Thriller/Time Travel Suspense)

The Possum Gap Novels (Mystery/Crime Fiction)

This series has ties to Serenity’s Plain Secrets.

FREE FROM SIN

DARK HOLLOW ROAD

NIGHT SONG (Serenity’s Plain Secrets/Possum Gap)

RUSH INTO EVIL

SINFUL ALLIANCE (Serenity’s Plain Secrets/Possum Gap)

DEMONS LIVE HERE

MISERY LOVES CALAMITY

GROVEL TO NONE

WICKED WINDS WHISPER (coming in 2025)

BEWARE OF WENDIGOS (coming in 2026)

In Night Song & Sinful Alliance, Sheriff Serenity Adams teams up with Sheriff Sadie Mills to solve chilling crossover cases.

Table of contents

Acknowledgments

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Chapter 24

Chapter 25

Chapter 26

Chapter 27

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Many thanks to Heather and Grace for editing and proofreading this installment.

Much appreciation to Melissa from The Illustrated Author Design Service for this fantastic cover!

EbookPbook provided the formatting of this book.

When I’m not writing, I’m rescuing dogs and cats from crowded shelters and lonely roadsides. We’re experiencing a crisis of unwanted pets across the United States, and rescue organizations are stressed to the max. The best remedy is to spay and neuter your pets, and please adopt, don’t shop.

1

Icy wind swooped over the angry-looking hills, stinging my cheeks and taking my breath away. It was still dark, but within minutes, I knew the thin air would brighten, turning hazy for a few minutes until the sun finally climbed over the lowest, snow-covered mountain peaks in the distance. Clouds raced across the sky, flashing intermittent clear skies with blinking stars and a waning crescent moon.

After living on the estate for months and visiting many times as a teen, you wouldn’t think the stunning view from Helena House’s front porch would still fill me with awe, but it did. The rugged beauty, day or night, was inspiring and intimidating at the same time. Sticking my gloved hands deeper into the pockets of my thick, woolen brown coat. I hugged the material tighter around me. Even with a green knit hat and matching scarf that my best friend, Tanya, had made for me years earlier, I still felt the chill. It seeped into my bones and made my eyes water.

It wasn’t just the record-setting freezing temperatures that caused me discomfort. My thoughts were equally stark. The previous week, I’d received a disturbing phone call from Sheriff Serenity Adams. She policed the Indiana town of Blood Rock, and outside forces often pulled her from her jurisdiction to faraway places to solve crimes. We’d worked on a couple of cases together, and had become friends in the process. Serenity was a different sort. Aloof, paranoid, and even frosty were words I’d use to describe my northern counterpart. I trusted her with my life, but at the same time, I sensed that being close to her put me in danger. Serenity was cursed with the same unwanted skill I possessed—attracting calamity. We were both magnets for wicked encounters, but unlike me, who sought peace and quiet in my life, Serenity craved chaos.

A bird began chattering in one of the nearby maple trees just as the eastern sky lightened a little. It was a hopeful sound, although it didn’t lift my spirits. Licking my cracked lips, I remembered the way my stomach clenched when I’d seen her number pop up on the screen and the odd conversation that followed not too long ago. Serenity’s voice had been more serious than usual. I actually felt her tension though the phone line.

“Hey, Serenity. How are you holding up? I was meaning to call you next week when the dust settled.”

“It’s been…well, you can imagine…horrible.”

“It’s all over the news. Are they getting it right? Was it terrorism?”

“Yeah, but not the kind you’re probably thinking of.” She took a deep breath. “I’ll fill you in on everything later, I just wanted to give you a quick call. I’m currently in Los Angeles.”

“What are you doing there?” I tried to sound pleasant but probably failed. Her random call made me slightly queasy.

“It’s too much to get into now, but a tip led me to who the driver of the truck was, and I followed the dots to Pennsylvania and then here.”

Serenity was in some kind of trouble. I could hear it in her tight voice. “Whoa. All righty. What do you need from me?”

“I don’t exactly need something from you, Sadie,” she said. “I’m giving you a heads up about something that may or may not interest you.”

I wouldn’t lie. “I’m getting worried.”

“Are you still heading to Mexico?”

“That’s the plan. Russo mentioned that we could leave next week. He finally finished up the autopsies from our latest murders, and I filed all the paperwork. It’s been quiet for a few days here in Possum Gap, and I think Russo’s itching to get the trip over with. I guess I am too.”

“Can you remind me of the surname of the men who were giving Russo and his family trouble again?”

My heart started beating faster. “Flores. Why do you ask?”

“Sadie, listen to me. I just busted a sex trafficking ring in LA that had ties to an Amish community in Pennsylvania. There’s a young woman whom I haven’t found closure for. She may be dead for all I know, but I think she ended up in a massage parlor owned by the Flores brothers here in LA before being taken into Mexico. I was hoping you would make a mental note and possibly do some casual digging when you’re south of the border.”

Oh, Lord. Not again… “Sure thing. I absolutely can do that. Text me her name, current age, and any info you think will aid me. You know how things work. I might just turn over the right rock and you’ll have your closure.”

“I appreciate it. Be careful. These are very dangerous people.”

I chuckled into the phone. “So am I. And Russo’s brother and his cousin are no joke either.” I snorted. “Russo, not so much.”

“I’ll send everything I know over this evening. Be ready for anything. After what just happened here, they will be on high alert and they’re going to be pissed.”

That was nearly two weeks ago. Russo, Buddy, and I had finished up the paperwork and filings for the torso cases, along with the shootout at the Saloon. We conducted interviews and Russo completed the autopsies and released the bodies to their respective families. No one came forward to claim the dead cartel men, or Colleen and Merle Crane, the mother-daughter duo who had both inherited mental health and violence issues. They were also murderers. Merle had followed her mother’s and grandmother’s twisted path, worshipping an evil deity called Moloch, who supposedly required a constant supply of souls to grant favors to his followers. I’d come very close to dying while solving that case. If it hadn’t been for Crow Dover, my daughter’s boyfriend, I wouldn’t be standing here, shivering in the biting cold.

I blinked away the disturbing mountaintop scene. The nightmares had finally stopped and now, I was ready to let go of the awful daydreams.

Except instead of settling into a steady routine of busting local citizens for drugs, domestic violence, and traffic violations, I was about to board a plane. To say I was disgruntled would be putting it mildly. And I was afraid of what was coming.

Caught by the wind, the front door flung wide open. Tanya gasped and lunged to grab the large, solid wooden door before it slammed against the porch wall. “Sadie Mills!” She pushed the door closed and whirled around. She also wore a coat, hat, scarf, and gloves, all in shades of pink. The pastel color complimented her smooth, dark brown skin. Tanya’s tight, shiny black curls were puffed out below her hat and unlike me, her forehead glistened with sweat. “Girl, I’ve been searching for you in this big ol’ house for ten minutes.” She swept her hand towards the lawn and its dying grass. “Why in the world are you standing out here on a morning like this?”

I dropped my gaze, staring at the freshly painted gray floorboards, not sure if I felt worse about inconveniencing my friend or that I hadn’t even noticed her pull in.

“Where’s Chloe?” I asked weakly.

“She’s warm in my car. The engine is running and she’s waiting for me to drive her to school, like I always do on Mondays.” Tanya stepped closer, keeping her arms tightly crossed over her chest and turning her face away from the wind. “You said your goodbyes, right?”

“We did.” I sighed. Our early-morning argument was still fresh in my mind. “She’s not happy with me.”

Tanya shook her head. “Sadie, dear, you know better than anyone how cantankerous that child can be when she doesn’t get her way.” Her breath visibly puffed out of her mouth when she talked. “I’m sure it’s hard to leave on bad terms, but the only way to avoid hurting Chloe’s feelings was to skip the trip altogether.”

“I have to go,” I said firmly.

“I know you do, and deep down, Chloe probably understands as well. She’s a teenager. One day when she’s not, everything will sink in.” Tanya chuckled. “Ha! Don’t expect any apologies though. Suddenly, she’ll be a little nicer, and that’s when things will shift in the relationship.”

We’d discussed this before, and Tanya was right. I just wasn’t sure whether I could survive another few years of torment. A tremor rocked through me. “Tanya, Ted is going to bug you about Chloe spending the weekend with him. Sandra is celebrating her thirtieth birthday and he’s having a surprise party for her at the VFW. He wants our daughter to be there and—”

“No worries.” Tanya flashed a steely look that I knew well. “I’ll come up with a good excuse. Maybe I’ll even take her and Bree to Lexington for a day of shopping.”

The corner of my mouth lifted. “That’s not what I was going to say. I want you to make sure Chloe is there.”

Tanya’s eyes widened and her mouth dropped open. “But—” She snapped her mouth shut as her eyes relaxed. “Oh, I see. Is this your way of putting that child in her place, or perhaps even punishment for being such a little turd lately?”

“Nope.” My gaze drifted back to the hills. As the sun rose higher in the sky, its rays touched the lawn and mist started to rise. With the morning light came an abrupt lessening of my worries, and I experienced a jolt in my heart. It had been a long time since I’d gone any further than a state that bordered Kentucky. “Chloe is old enough to deal with her father and his girlfriend. She doesn’t seem to resent me as much after she’s spent time with them.” I shrugged. “Besides. He’s her dad and if anything happens to me, she’ll need him.” When I turned back to Tanya, I found her eyebrows raised and her jaw slack. I offered my best friend a small smile. “You’re a huge part of Chloe’s life and always will be, but she’ll need some true blood thrown into the mix to get through to the other side.”

Tanya pressed her hand to her forehead. “Oh, my Lord, Sadie Mills! Stop it! You’re talking like you don’t plan to return.”

I sighed and bit my lower lip. I might not…

Jerking my hands from my pockets, I grabbed hers and held them tightly. “I’ll be back as quickly as I can, Tanya. Please take good care of Chloe and”—I rolled my eyes—“don’t let her talk you into allowing Crow to be at your house every day. Those two need a break from each other.”

Tanya’s face came alive. “Don’t you worry about that! I have something planned for that girl nearly every day while you’re gone. If the Dover boy comes around, he better be prepared for bingeing on sappy streaming hospital shows, volunteering at the animal shelter, and visiting the old folks at the nursing home.”

I rubbed my mouth with my gloved hand, hiding my smile. “Sad thing is, Crow would love every minute of that kind of itinerary.”

Tanya chuckled and swatted the air. “True. He isn’t like any Dover I’ve ever met before. Well, John’s kind of weird as well.” She winked. “Did you say your goodbyes to the mountain man?”

I shook my head. “We were supposed to grab a coffee last week, but I canceled. I haven’t returned his text messages, nor his phone calls.” Slumping, I exhaled a tired breath. It came out in a stream of misty air. I watched it drift away from the porch. “Wrapping up the torso cases and handling the fallout from the shootout at the Saloon kept me mighty busy. With this trip planned, I couldn’t concentrate on anything else, let alone dating.”

“Poor John.” Tanya sounded genuinely bummed.

“Why do you feel bad for him?”

Tanya’s face softened. “Because he loves you, that’s why.”

“Dang, we barely know each other.”

“He’s put his life in danger multiple times for you, and he’s gone against his hill clan family, taking your side in matters that he’d never concerned himself with before.” She flinched, and I wasn’t sure if it was the brisk air or her feelings. “I’ve said all along, you should give that man a chance.”

“And I told you I’d do just that when you and Summit start dating.”

Tanya held up her hands and grinned. “Whoa. Don’t turn this conversation on me. Things happen in their own sweet time.” She grunted as she adjusted her scarf. “Shew, girl. If I were John, I’d be worried right about now. Here you are running off on a trip with another handsome man—”

“It’s business, Tanya! Don’t go twisting it into something it isn’t.” I lowered my voice. “Russo is the best coroner we could ever hope for in this tiny mountain town. I’m making sure he comes back.”

Tanya started whispering fiercely. “Sadie, I haven’t had a proper night’s sleep in days worrying about where you’re going. You should cancel the trip and stay home!”

I hugged my friend tightly. “Russo needs me.”

“Aunt Tanya, I’m going to be late.”

We broke apart and faced Chloe who stood on the steps, hands on her hips and a scowl on her face.

I dabbed the corner of my eyes with my gloved fingers. “Get going, ladies. I’ll see you both next week.”

Chloe continued to look angry. “What about Thanksgiving?”

“I already told you I plan to be back the day before—”

“Your plans suck, Mom.” Chloe whirled around. “Come on, Aunt Tanya. I have a test in my first class that I can’t miss.”

Chloe marched through the yard, and Tanya nudged me hard.

“You’re a mom. Act like one.”

Tanya rarely used that forceful tone with me, and it was like a gut punch. Any sullenness I felt towards Chloe disappeared. My daughter was upset because she was afraid that I wouldn’t come home.

I jogged down the steps and gained speed when my tennis shoes hit the crispy, frozen blades of grass. When I caught up to Chloe, I sprinted in front of her. Her eyes bulged when I grabbed her shoulders and pulled her into a tight hug.

“I love you with all of my heart, Chloe. Have fun with Aunt Tanya.” Chloe sagged in my arms. She sniffled and rubbed her face on my coat. “I’ll be home for Thanksgiving. I promise.”

It was a lie. I should have said that I hoped to be home by the holiday, because in reality, I feared that I wouldn’t be coming home at all.

2

The constant noise hurt my head, and I became dizzy craning my neck to see the soaring vaulted ceiling and fancy columns. But I couldn’t tear my gaze away from the stars and dramatic images above our heads.

“Are those—”

“Paintings of the zodiac and other constellations. The train station was completed in 1913, and with around seven hundred and fifty thousand people passing through every day, it’s one of the busiest terminals in the world. Yes, the chandeliers are gold, and there’s even a tennis court.” Russo stopped talking, and when I dropped my gaze, I found him grinning at me.

Like me, Russo had packed lightly and only carried a black duffle bag over his shoulder. Mine was a brown leather backpack and it was quite heavy, but I’d never complain to Russo about its weight. He’d already asked to carry it a couple of times and I’d politely refused. Glancing around, I found most of the people bustling past us dressed similarly to Russo. Dark colors and drab, warm clothes were not what I expected in New York City. My brown coat kind of blended in, but my green knitted hat and scarf felt a little too country for the crowd. I was glad that I’d decided on my summer hiking boots. Since stepping off the plane, we’d done a lot of walking, catching trains and subway cars.

The fast pace of everyone was unsettling, and if Russo hadn’t caught my arm and dragged me onto the last subway car, I probably would have been caught in the swiftly shutting door. I still didn’t understand how people weren’t being injured all the time just getting on and off the subway. I’d always considered myself a quick-moving individual, but here, I felt like I was moving and thinking in slow motion. It was overwhelming and I hadn’t lost my upset stomach since we’d gone underground.

Russo, whose long strides had taken him a good distance ahead, walked back to me and stood close, while the mass of humanity split around us, going to and fro in a hurry.

The corner of his mouth trembled. “Sadie, a few more steps, and we’ll be outside. You look like you require fresh air.”

“I doubt I’ll find it in this city.” I frowned harder. “You don’t normally move at warp speed back home.”

“Home?” Russo’s brow crinkled. “This is my home, and if you aren’t quick here, you’ll be run over.”

I dragged my gaze to the wall of windows, where all I could see were shiny buildings outside.

A hard bump drove me right into Russo’s chest.

“Hey, dick, watch out!” Russo shouted after the fellow in a gray trench coat. The man’s only response was to lift his hand and flick us off without looking back.

“And I thought the Dovers were rude,” I muttered.

Russo smirked. “At least he didn’t shoot at us.” He took my hand without asking and with a sudden burst of eagerness, tugged me towards the doors. “Come on.”

I allowed Russo to take the lead, like I had ever since we arrived at Blue Grass Airport in Lexington. He was a seasoned traveler. I was not.

Once we left the terminal behind, the crowd thinned a bit, and even though the air smelled dirty, I could finally breathe a little easier.

Cars, taxis, pedestrians, buildings—everything was overwhelming. Horns beeping, people shouting, and a constant drone of noise that I could only explain as being the city itself, kept me from hearing whatever Russo was saying as he squeezed my hand, guiding me to a narrow strip where we were able to walk a tad slower and look around. After a minute, I’d stopped smiling at the walkers because they only frowned back. It was just as cold as when we’d driven out of Possum Gap early that same morning, but the walls of enormous buildings kept the wind away here, making the wintry weather feel more bearable.

“Your family lives here?”

Russo tilted his head. “No, no. My brother lives on Staten Island, and my parents and sister are in Short Hills, New Jersey. Manhattan is where my father’s business headquarters are.”

I planted my feet and jerked back my hand. Russo finally swung around. His swarthy, good-looking face was slightly flushed, and his thick, black hair was messier than usual.

“You didn’t say anything about your dad.” I hated the pounding of my heart and the tingling sensation at the back of my neck. I didn’t like surprises, especially ones in strange places.

Russo drew back and grimaced. “I told you we were meeting my family to discuss a plan, and then we’d fly to Mexico on a private jet. My father is part of the family.”

A horn blaring nearby made me jump, and the anxiety I’d felt in the subway system coiled back around me.

“Where are the trees?” I asked without looking at Russo.

Russo gave my shoulder a soft shake. “Sadie, we’re only going to be in New York for one night. It’s no biggie compared to the insanity you deal with in Possum Gap on a regular basis.” He gently cupped my chin and turned my face his way. “Central Park isn’t far from here. There are more trees than you’ll know what to do with. It’ll be dark, but after dinner, I’ll take you there.” He grinned. “Surely, you’re not homesick? It’s only been six hours.”

“I just don’t understand how anyone could live in a place like this. It feels dead.”

“Wow.” Russo dragged his hand through his hair. “Don’t tell Father how you feel about his beloved city.”

“I would never be so rude.”

“Are you regretting begging to come along?” I saw hesitancy in Russo’s brown eyes.

“Not at all. Maybe it’s that Chloe pitched a fit right before I left, or that I’m completely out of my element here.” I dipped my head, taking a deep breath. “No worries, Russo. I’ll have my act together when the time comes.”

Russo chuckled, then took my hand into his larger, warmer one. “I have no doubt in you, Sadie.” He pointed at a squat, brick building, bookended by two much taller ones. “That’s where Father’s office is. We’re almost there.”

I nodded, swallowed the spit in my mouth, and let him take me the rest of the way without interrupting him with more questions.

Would Russo’s dad be as imposing as his mother? Probably so. Celene Russo had already warned me that if I broke Russo’s heart, there would be consequences. Seriously, who does that?

Right now, my main concern was that Mr. Russo would think I was a hillbilly that wasn’t worthy of his son. And even caring about something so ridiculous was the biggest shock of all.

3

Seated at the conference table were Anthony Sr., Anthony Jr., Jimmy Conti, Lorenzo Gallo, and Mike Giordano. While Russo inherited his mother’s looks and charm, his father was an older version of Russo’s brother. Brisk, intense, and with just enough of a spark of humor to soften his edges. Mike was the family’s attorney, and Jimmy and Lorenzo, the muscle. Up until this moment, Anthony Jr. had done most of the talking.

My attention occasionally drifted out the window, where the only thing to look at was the building across the street. These men were on top of things, and I was basically along for the ride.

A voice cleared, pulling my gaze across the table to Russo’s dad. He wore a nice gray suit, purple shirt, and thin, striped matching tie. His white hair was thick and styled like Russo’s and his gray eyebrows arched dramatically.

“From what Celene told me about you, Sheriff Mills, I expected more talk from you.”

I glanced at Russo. He smiled slightly, then winked. Having me in his world seemed to amuse him greatly.

Feeling a lot better now that we were discussing the reason I was in New York in the first place, I took a quick breath. “I tend to hold my tongue when I’m not the smartest person on the subject matter in the room.”

Mr. Russo cocked his head, squinted his eyes, and frowned for an instant. The harsh look quickly evaporated, only to be replaced with a belly laugh and a wide grin. Mr. Russo didn’t really have a belly. He was fitter than most men half his age, but the laugh came from a deep place.

Mr. Russo sat up and reached over to slap his younger son on the back. “Your mother was right. This one is a savvy spitfire. And that accent is endearing.”

“I don’t have an accent.”

Mr. Russo folded his hands over the table. He lost some of the smile but not all of it. “Really? Have you listened to yourself lately?”

“Father, some of Sadie’s people are from Ohio. Her dialect is more midwestern than southern. Although, when she’s upset—or riled as she calls it—she tends to drift into a speech pattern that’s all Kentucky.”

I glared at Russo. Was he making fun of me? Then I turned my gaze to his father, ignoring his brother’s snickering. “The funny thing is that you all sound like the ones with the accents to me.”

Mr. Russo nodded. “I’m sure you see it that way, although, we’re not in Possum Gap.”

I sighed. “True.”

Mike leaned over the table. “Ray tells us you have an ungodly amount of crime in your town. Fentanyl, meth, moonshine, hillbilly clans, and enough murder that a shootout in a local bar didn’t even get picked up by the regional news stations.”

I nodded as he talked. “It’s expected in hill country. Although that last shootout was all you guys and your enemies.” I narrowed my gaze at Mr. Russo, careful not to glance at my town’s coroner. “I’m sorry that your man died. For a short time, we thought he might pull through.”

Mr. Russo’s expression changed, becoming guarded all of a sudden. “Extraordinary. You managed to cut to the matter of things while throwing in a dash of respect.”

“Empathy, sir. I hate to see anyone die.”

“Of course. That’s why you’re the top law officer in a dangerous, backwoods community.”

There. I cracked the illusion and felt much better for it. Exhaling, I leaned back in the chair. Russo’s father and every man seated here, besides Russo, were criminals. People who would kill in a heartbeat to protect their own interests. This was an uneasy alliance. I’d only signed on because I wanted my coroner back in Possum Gap doing his job as quickly as possible.

“Don’t forget, Father, she’s one-hundred percent sheriff,” Anthony Jr. pointed out. His voice sounded coaxing, like he wanted to lower the temperature in the room a notch. “The fact that Sadie’s townspeople are always well-armed and immediately picked the right side and fired on Flores’ men, shows that Possum Gap is no joke.”

Mr. Russo grunted, mimicking me by leaning back and folding his hands in his lap. “Celene is convinced it’s a diamond in the rough. She’s betting your Helena House endeavor will be a big money maker someday.”

“It’s not about the money,” I quipped. “Tanya and I are passionate to bring the old mansion back to life and along with it, our tired town. We’re praying for success only to bring jobs, opportunities, and hope back to a region that’s seen better days.”

Mr. Russo licked his lips, then glanced at Russo. “Put this one in a commercial. With her natural beauty and wholesome spirit, you’ll have that place booked out for years.”

Beauty? Good grief, I was back to feeling like I’d fallen onto another planet. I took a sip from the bottle of water on the table and looked out the window to hide my blushing cheeks.

Mike saved me. “Sheriff, both Ray and Tony believe you’ll keep your mouth shut about whatever transpires during the meeting in Mexico. We need your assurance that’s true.”

Of course, the lawyer is watching out for his clients. It still left a gritty taste in my mouth.

“Russo explained why he’s been targeted by your former partners, the Flores brothers. His safety and ability to continue performing his job in Possum Gap is important to me. There’s also the fact that those men stepped into the wrong town and started shooting.” I set the water down and glanced around the table, pausing when I reached Mr. Russo. “I don’t tolerate outsiders coming into my town and stirring up trouble. We have enough of it all on our own. It’s my job to protect the citizens and that’s exactly what I’m doing on this trip. I need to make sure that the cartel never shows up in Possum Gap ever again.”

Mr. Russo smirked. “Mike, that’s enough insurance for me.” He pursed his lips and stared at me with harder eyes. “Besides, we know everything you hold dear, Sadie Mills.”

“Father!” Russo said sharply.

I smiled back at the older, well-dressed, and wealthy man. He might be a cold-blooded killer, but he had no idea what hill people were like and the crap I’d dealt with since becoming sheriff of Possum Gap. Maybe the warm confidence I experienced rushing through my veins was foolish, but I embraced the pleasant feeling, nonetheless. This man couldn’t intimidate me. I’d already looked into the eyes of evil multiple times before, and frankly, Mr. Russo wasn’t nearly as sinister as he wished to be.

“Right back at you, sir.”

Russo covered his face and groaned. The other men were frozen and silent, at least for a few long breaths.

Then Anthony Jr. pounded the table, exclaiming, “That’s why I love this sheriff. She doesn’t flinch when she should be trembling in fear.”

“Sadie has nothing to fear!” Russo stood up.

I raised my hand. “Sit down, Russo. I think your dad and I understand each other now.”

All eyes turned to Mr. Russo. He laced his fingers and popped his joints while a smile spread slowly on his lips. “Sadie and I are going to get along just fine.” His cell phone buzzed on the table. He read the message and looked up. “Let’s finish this quickly. Celene made us dinner reservations at Nicola’s.” He winked at me. “We best not be late.”

4

There wasn’t time to check into the hotel and change, so I still wore brown pants, a cream-colored sweater, and the brown wool coat. I’d stuffed my hat and scarves into my backpack, which Russo had insisted I leave in the black Suburban SUV that Jimmy drove us around in.

The sun set an hour earlier, but you couldn’t tell it was nighttime as we walked along the sidewalk into the restaurant. A million lights lit the city, making it feel like daytime. Glancing up, I couldn’t see any stars. The sky felt tiny when you only caught glimpses of it between tall rooftops.

Russo snagged my hand again. I didn’t yank it away, but I thought about it. We weren’t dating and it was presumptuous at best, but I was a stranger in this big city, and Russo’s quick thoughts and movements were proving hard to keep up with. Russo was the same man who’d grown on me in Possum Gap, although being home for him meant a sudden jolt of energy and like everyone else we’d encountered, he was operating at warp speed. I found the brisk pace exhausting.

“Demi is Tony’s ex-wife. They have three sons. Logan is sixteen, Oliver thirteen, and Jayden just turned ten. Andrea, my sister, is married to David Tetro. They have two daughters—Sofia and Ella. My Aunt Victoria—Mother’s sister—should be here with Mack, my uncle. Father has two living brothers, Ben—”

“Stop, Russo.” I tugged him back. Jimmy turned, eyed us, and kept walking straight into the restaurant. There were fewer pedestrians on this street, but the traffic was still thick. I’d gotten used to beeping horns and didn’t jump this time when one sounded. “Is there going to be a test on the names of all your relatives after dinner?”

Russo smirked. “Of course not. I just thought you’d want to be ready.”

I sighed, making an allowance for Russo’s attempt at being a good host in his hometown and softened my tone. “I’ll never remember everyone and probably won’t need to.” I instantly regretted saying it when Russo’s face fell, and his mouth thinned. I quickly added, “I mean, we have an important mission tomorrow and that’s filling my mind at present.”

Russo relaxed, then exhaled. “Yes, and as anxiety inducing it is to meet with the Flores brothers, having dinner with most of my family might be even more stressful. I want you to be prepared.”

“Prepared? Aren’t we simply eating dinner?” Like I’m going to be able to eat. My stomach was already tied in knots.

Russo scrunched his face. “Ah, meals are extremely important in Italian families. It’s not just about the food, which of course is delicious. There will be animated and loud conversations about everything under the sun. What sounds like an argument will simply be what we call an enthusiastic discussion.” The corner of his mouth lifted higher. “I fear you’re not used to such a boisterous culture.”

“I deal with the Dovers on a regular basis. They fit that description fairly well.”

Russo pursed his lips and nodded. “True. There are some definite, though less civilized, similarities.” He patted me on the back. “You’ll be fine then.”

He started towards the door, and I stopped him again with a strong pull. “In a public place, I suppose your family will be on their best behaviors, right?”

“Sadie, Father rented out the entire restaurant for this dinner.”

“Huh?” I had a difficult time wrapping my mind around what he just said. “Not for my benefit, I hope?”

“The Russo’s gather for a family dinner on a regular basis and it’s about that time again.” He flashed a knowing smile. “Relax, Sadie, you’re going to enjoy this. Authentic Italian food, excellent service, and a peaceful ambience are why Nicola’s is one of our favorite dining spots. Too bad Tanya isn’t here to join us. There’s a lot of inspiration in there for Helena House.”

Russo stood close, blocking some of the breeze with his body, but I still marveled at the cool air. This city was as foreign to me as Possum Gap must have felt to Russo when he’d first arrived. I finally understood why he sometimes joked about the lack of places to eat in Possum Gap. Growing up in the busiest city in the world with every imaginable food available and thousands of restaurants to choose from, Kentucky’s Appalachia had to be rather disappointing in the culinary department.

“I don’t get it,” I said.

Russo made a fun face. “What now?”

“Why you stayed in Possum Gap for over a year. I know that hiding from the Flores brothers was the reason you left the city, but surely, you could have found a quiet, off-the-beaten-path location with more stuff to do than Possum Gap.”

A sweet and honest smile spread across Russo’s lips. “It’s exactly what I was looking for in a place to put down roots.”

“Why?”

Russo rolled his eyes. “You want to have this conversation here, on the street, while my family is waiting to meet you?”

“I thought you said they get together regularly for these dinners.”

He sighed, and I felt a little bad pestering him, but I couldn’t stop myself.

“They do and they also want to meet you. It’s been a long time since I brought someone home to the family.”

I held up my palms, forgetting the importance of my previous question. “We’re not a couple, Russo. I really hope you didn’t give them the impression that we are.”

“You wouldn’t be here if we weren’t a team.”

“Okay, but—”

“That’s a good start. Come on. You don’t want to keep my mother waiting, do you?”

No, riling Celene Russo was not how I wanted to start off the evening. I snapped my mouth shut and didn’t stop Russo from propelling me into the restaurant.

“Honestly, the mansion is extraordinary. And although it needs a cosmetic refresh, the architecture is sturdy,” Celene told her sister, Victoria.

Both women were short and had the same hooked hoses, wide-spaced large eyes, and high cheekbones, but the similarities ended with their faces and height. Celene wore a silver dress that wrapped elegantly around her slender figure. Victoria, on the other hand, was quite round and would have fit right in at a dinner party in Possum Gap with her pretty sweater with sunflowers all over it and yellow velvet pants.

Celene did most of the talking, but when her sister could get a word in, she’d rattle on enthusiastically. Russo’s mom and aunt squeezed me equally hard during introductions and the children were all extremely polite and talkative. His niece, Sophia, took horseback lessons and didn’t hide her fascination for my home state and its title of being the horse capital of the world.

“Do you have horses?” she asked, leaning in close from my right side.

“Yes, we have two. Their names are Belle and Brego.” At the same age as my usually sullen and aloof daughter, I was amazed at how mature and outgoing this teenager was.

She flipped her straight, dark brown hair over to the other side of her head. The girl didn’t wear makeup or even need it. She was blessed with expressive brown eyes and a smooth olive complexion. But it was her frequent smiles and hearty laugh that made her stick out in the crowd. Her younger sister, also friendly, didn’t have the same charm that Sophia possessed.

“Oh, nice. What breed are they?” she asked.

“Just regular horses. They’re not registered, although Belle’s palomino coloring is beautiful. She’s actually a spicy ride.”

“I love palominos. Is that your daughter’s horse?”

“Perhaps one day. Chloe only began riding a few months ago. She’s advanced quickly, but Belle is still a bit of a handful for her, so I’m the one who’s claimed the mare for now.”

“Do you ride western?”

Sophia’s rapid firing of questions was dizzying. “Yes, I’ve never ridden any other discipline.”

“Gosh, I’ve always wanted to ride a real western horse in the mountains. If I come for a visit, could I go riding with Chloe? I compete in show jumping competitions, so I think I could handle Belle.”

I wondered how Chloe would like this Yankee teen but figured if this girl’s polite nature and upbeat attitude rubbed off on Chloe it would be a good thing.

“Sure. I think Chloe would enjoy that.”

“Grandma!” Sophia shouted to the end of the table where Celene sat. “When can you take me to Possum Gap?”

Celene handled it in stride, tilting her head and smiling. “We’ll schedule a trip in April. Tanya Beaumont said the weather is perfect that time of year in southern Kentucky. Do you agree with your friend and partner, Sadie?”

I had just taken a large bite of the meatball on my dish and nearly choked when I quickly swallowed the half-chewed lump and then dabbed my mouth with the cloth napkin.

“Tanya is right. Springtime is lovely in Possum Gap. If it’s early in the month, the daffodils and forsythia should be blooming. Later in April, the peonies will be. Depending on the last frost, we might have the garden planted by then as well.”

“Around here, it’s not safe to plant anything until after Mother’s Day,” Victoria said. “I have an herb garden, some tomato plants, and flowers for cutting. I wouldn’t dare put anything in the ground until mid-May at the earliest.”

I took a sip of water. “That sounds about right. I’d guess you all are a few weeks behind us.”

Victoria gestured to her sister. “Celene hasn’t shut up about how grand the plantation home is. I would imagine there’s mature oaks and fruit trees around it.”

“Yes, ma’am. There are all manners of trees and flowering bushes. Something is always blooming there throughout three seasons of the year.”

“Spring and early summer are spectacular at Helena House,” Russo agreed.

Too many seats had been added to the long, narrow table. Everyone sitting across the table was closer than I was used to and there was so little space between Russo and I that our arms constantly brushed. He smiled a lot, made dumb jokes and laughed at them, giving me the impression that he was enjoying himself immensely.

“I cannot wait to see it,” Victoria said. She sat next to Celene and swatted her arm. “When you take Sophia, I want to go.”

Before Celene could respond, Russo’s sister, Andrea, cleared her throat loudly. “I don’t want you taking either of my daughters to that horrid place.”

Andrea’s statement silenced the conversations around the table. Celene frowned at her daughter, while Sophia burst out, “Why not? Uncle Ray lives there, and they have horses—”

“Don’t argue with your mother,” David said.

His attempt at a firm voice failed. Andrea’s husband spoke as softly as his entire body looked. I would bet last week’s paycheck that Andrea was the one who wore the pants in that household and would be the one dishing out punishment to her girls if ever needed.

Russo sighed and I felt his muscles tense through his arm that pressed into mine. “Andrea, don’t be such a prison guard. Between Mother and me, my nieces will have a grand time.”

Tony jumped into the conversation. “There’s a lot to do down there, sis. Rafting, hiking, fishing. David, you, and Andrea should consider tagging along with Ma. Once the rooms are ready in the mansion for guests, I plan to take the boys down for a weekend trip.”

I usually wasn’t a fan of Russo’s older brother, and having the entire Russo family frequent my town was not something I wanted to encourage, but the way he’d pleasantly spoken of Possum Gap made my cheeks heat uncomfortably and my chest tighten.

Andrea was her mother’s younger twin, but when she sneered, her face wasn’t very pretty. “I wonder how many bodies we’d trip over on the trail.”

“I guarantee not as many as you’ll find in your dirty alleys around here.” The comment slipped off my tongue before I could stop it.

Russo slapped me on the back and Tony laughed. Celene looked annoyed and Victoria amused. The patriarch of the family didn’t say anything, but I recognized the twinkle in his eyes. He was the type of man who enjoyed the spectacle of people arguing.

“Come on, everyone. We’ve discussed how backwards Ray’s new home is and—” Andrea tossed her napkin on her plate, then took a long sip of red wine before finishing her thought. “How dangerous. Just because the sheriff is in our midst doesn’t mean we should pretend Kentucky isn’t full of gun-toting yahoos.”

Luckily, before I had the chance to blurt out more fighting words, Celene stuck up for my town. “While lacking in many things, I can attest that the locals are extremely friendly and hospitable in that part of the world. Once Helena House is completed, Russo and his partners have a real chance at a successful hotel and event destination.”

“Thank you, Mother,” Russo said before turning and whispering loud enough that everyone at the table could surely hear, “Don’t mind my sister. She never makes good first impressions.” He continued eating his chicken parmesan as if he was bored of the conversation.

“Shut up, Ray. You’re just have a hard-on for the sheriff—”

Mr. Russo finally found his voice and it was loud and firm. “Andrea. Apologize to your brother and Sadie. That was uncalled for.”

In all my life, I’d never heard someone speak so vile during a supposedly friendly meal. My heart rate sped up as the shock settled over me. Sophia sank into her chair next to me like she wanted to disappear.

Andrea finished her wine in a gulp, then stood up. “Whatever.”

I watched with interest as she walked by her dad, and he did nothing. When my dad or mom told me to do something, even as an adult, and I didn’t follow through, punishment would be swift. Because of that kind of unflinching discipline, I’d learned to never disrespect them. I knew the reason Chloe acted out towards me on a regular basis was because I didn’t have the same fortitude with my child that my parents had with me.

Seeing the creases around Mr. Russo’s eyes deepen right along with his frown, I felt sorry for the man. Like me, he might have no problem gunning down an enemy, but when it came to his kids, he couldn’t summon the same resolve.

Andrea’s husband followed her out of the restaurant with his head lowered like a beaten hound. Ella hugged her grandparents before saying her goodbyes and sprinting after her parents. Sophia took her time leaving.

She leaned in and said, “I’ll see you in the spring.”

Her plucky personality was impressive. The rest of the family started talking at once as if the scene with Andrea hadn’t happened. I finished my spaghetti and meatballs, and the strained feeling in my chest gradually lessened until it was gone. I found myself having a good time chatting with the rest of Russo’s family.

“Raymond, are you absolutely certain you won’t spend the night at the house? I’ll have your favorite omelets for breakfast.”

“Next time. We’re leaving early in the morning and it’s just easier this way.” Russo kissed his mom’s forehead.

Celene glanced at me with narrowed eyes. “Yes, I can see why a hotel room would be easier.”

My cheeks burned, but there was nothing I could do about it. I wasn’t about to start an argument with Russo’s mom. We’d end the evening on a good note, regardless of how difficult it was on my pride.

“Thank you for dinner, Mrs. Russo—”

“Celene. I recall telling you to address me by my first name when we first met.”

“Oh, yes. I’m sorry. Celene.”

“Good girl.” She hugged me quickly. “I’ll be in touch about plans for a spring trip with my sister and Sophia. Don’t mind Andrea. I’ll have her talked into it by the time your flowers start blooming down there.” She pivoted away, then turned back. “Don’t hold a grudge towards Ray’s sister. She’s always been high strung.”

Walking outside and having cold slap me in the face felt better than I thought it would. I inhaled air that was full of too many scents to name, but mostly overpowered by gas fumes, then exhaled. Feeling much better to be out of the stuffy restaurant, I started for Jimmy’s SUV. He leaned against it, smoking a cigarette and speaking to Tony.

“We’re going to walk to the hotel. Jimmy will drop off our bags ahead of us.” Russo said while he zipped up his black coat.

“At night? How far away is it?” My sense of adventure had taken a back seat to exhaustion. Russo’s family had worn me out.

“Only a few blocks, an easy walk for a girl like you who’s used to hilly terrain.” He winked. “I have a side jaunt planned. Something I promised you earlier.” He must have recognized the doubtful arch of my brows and quickly added, “And there are no mountain lions here.”

“I bet there are worse things,” I snapped.

He ignored what I said, and we met Tony and Jimmy at the SUV.

“We’ll see you both in the morning,” Russo said.

Tony eyed me. “Don’t fret, Sheriff. We’re meeting business associates after all.”

I snorted. “Yeah, what could go wrong?”

“Maybe everything or nothing at all.” Tony smirked. “We’re going in with enough leverage that I doubt it will be anything except a nice trip to sunny Mexico.”

“Will I be armed?” My lack of a sidearm had been on my mind ever since we’d boarded the plane in Lexington.

“We’ll all be packing, darling.” Tony slapped Russo on the back. “Enjoy the rest of your night, bro.”

I saw Russo’s parents, his nephews, and Demi turning in the other direction on the street. Mr. Russo hailed two cabs, and they started climbing into them. Not having a single taxi in Possum Gap, the sea of yellow vehicles was intriguing. I found myself staring at how efficiently they pulled up to the curb, quickly dropped off or picked up people, then were off again.

Tony started towards the cab that his ex and sons got into, and I called out, “Tony! Stop calling me sheriff. It’s just Sadie to acquaintances.”

Tony smiled. “Not friends?”

“Don’t push it.”

He swatted the air and laughed as he walked away.

“Are you ready?” Russo’s eyes were extra bright.

“I’m definitely not interested in a bar or one of those dance places. It’s not my scene.”

Russo grinned. “You’re no fun, Sadie Mills.” He started walking down the street.

Sprinting, I caught up with Russo and the way he grinned and offered his hand, eased my anxiety somewhat.

It occurred to me that Russo and I were alone, and I had no idea where we were going—but I wasn’t complaining.

5

We reached the end of a building, turned the corner, and came face to face with a wall of trees. Lights from the surrounding buildings illuminated the park to appear more like dusk rather than several hours after dark had fallen.

Russo, still holding my hand, glanced back. “Let me introduce you to Central Park. The closest thing we have in New York City to your precious Possum Gap’s forests and greenspaces.”

Craning my neck to search down each side of the street, I experienced a thrill. “It’s so big.”

“Over eight hundred acres and where New Yorkers connect with nature. There are more than fifty miles of trails, multiple lakes, memorials, and even a carousel.” We stopped at an intersection and when the pedestrian sign lit up, we crossed the street. “The park takes on a different vibe at night than during the day, when it’s a lot busier. It’s a serene, almost magical experience walking through it after dark.”

Russo picked up his pace and I was happy to stretch my legs. We walked through an opening in a low stone wall that bordered the park. The pathway was well lit with streetlamps, and almost immediately the sounds of the city faded.

“This is incredible.” I inhaled deeply and for the first time since arriving in the city, I smelled the sweet scents of decaying leaves and dirt. Tall, straight trunks with flakey bark lined the path, and I lifted my gaze to their delicate, bare branches that reached high above us. “Are these elm trees?”

Russo glanced at the trees. “Uh, I’m not really sure, but a fellow by the name of Olmsted helped establish much of the park’s landscaping.”

“I’ve heard of him!” I swiveled my head, taking in the intersecting paths and quaint lampposts. “Didn’t he design the grounds of the Biltmore Estate?”

Russo finally slowed to a more leisurely pace, probably so I could take in the sites. I snatched my hand away from him, choosing to stroll along the edge of the path.

“I think I read somewhere that he was the genius behind the project at the mansion in North Carolina.” He followed me closely. “Have you been there before?”

“Sure have. Chloe was just a toddler. Ted and I took a weekend trip to Ashville and toured the Biltmore house and grounds. It was amazing.” I paused. “Surely, you’ve visited the estate?”

The corner of Russo’s mouth lifted. “No, but it’s on my bucket list.”

“Aren’t those lists reserved for big deal trips? Like traveling to a European, African, or Asian Country. You know, seeing one of the world wonders?”

Russo chuckled and walked slowly ahead of me. I reluctantly left the stand of older trees as we stepped into a sculpted area with younger ones.

He stopped at the rim of what I would call a pond, but the little historical marker referred to it as a lake. I quickly scanned the information, then joined Russo on the stone pavers beneath a lamppost. Its light reflected over the calm surface of the water. There wasn’t so much as a ripple, which didn’t surprise me in late fall.

“Bucket lists are unique to each individual, Sadie. Not everyone yearns for the same sites and experiences.” Russo tilted his head my way. “Would you be interested in going back to the Biltmore?”

“Oh, yeah. It would be neat to take Chloe as a teenager, when she could finally appreciate the beauty and hist—” I snapped my mouth shut, realizing that Russo might be hinting about another trip together, one that wasn’t for business.

“From Possum Gap, it’s not too far of a car drive. It might be a nice mother-daughter trip. A time of bonding for you two.”

My shoulders sagged. I suddenly felt like a dummy. Russo was a good guy, and although he’d shown interest in dating me, he wasn’t obsessed with the idea. That made me feel suddenly lighter.

“That’s a great idea.” I hesitated. “Same thing for you. It would be an easy one to cross off your list.”

“True, but it wouldn’t be much fun alone.”

I licked my lips and sighed. I was nowhere near ready for vacations with Russo. I probably never would be. Anxious to change the subject, I opened my mouth to ask why we’d only passed a few people since we’d stepped foot in the park, when Russo beat me with his own question.

“What about Ted?”

I crossed my arms as my entire body prickled with tension. “What about him?”

“You don’t mention your ex much. Other than the quick story you told me early on about becoming pregnant with Chloe at prom and feeling obligated to marry the man while you were only a teenager.”

Taking shallow breaths, I tried to keep my voice steady. It’s a reasonable question, I guess.

“I got married for the wrong reason and a few years later when I realized Ted couldn’t remain faithful, I let him go. His drinking was a problem as well.” Just saying it made me tired. I hated reliving the past.

“You two seem to get along,” Russo offered. His voice was quiet and thoughtful.

“Trust me, the early years after our breakup weren’t very civil.” I shrugged. “I’ve grown up a lot in the last few years. Chloe is almost an adult, and I’ve come face to face with death too many times.” My gaze drifted over the pond’s placid surface. “I’m trying to encourage a relationship that I’m not sure Chloe wants, but I think is best. Ted quit drinking a while back and he’s in a stable, dare I say, long term relationship with Sandra. She’s okay.”

Russo nodded. “One of the reasons I admire you is because of your ability to forgive and forget.”

“I don’t forget. Short of violent crimes, most people deserve a second chance. Now, don’t try me with a third.”

“You’ve been more patient with the Dover clan than most would be minus a payout of some kind.”

I rubbed my hands together. “Well, that’s different.”

Russo leaned in. “How so?”

“Mostly hill country politics. Lucy Dover and I have come to terms and as long as she keeps her bargain, I will leave her clan alone.”

I wasn’t comfortable with the direction of the conversation. First Ted, and now the Dovers? Why was Russo badgering me?

“Don’t get me wrong, I think you’re doing a fine job of balancing the unhinged locals with law and order, but I worry that Lucy’s more formidable than her mother, Geraldine, ever was. If you’re not on your toes, she’ll get the better of you.”

I narrowed my gaze at Russo. He offered me a small, tight lift of the side of his mouth in return.

“It’s none of your concern. Besides, I reckon I’m in the same boat with your family and their investment in Helena House.”

Russo swayed back. I knew from his wide eyes and slack jaw that he wasn’t expecting that analogy.

“How do you—”

“Your family runs a crime syndicate, hustling drugs and Lord knows what else and, for the time being, I’m obliged to look the other way.”

“For the time being? What does that mean?”

Russo leaned in closer, and I caught a whiff of his cologne. He always smelled nice and clean, which shouldn’t even have entered my mind, but it did.

“It means that once we get things sorted out in Mexico with the Flores brothers, my next goal will be to work out financing with someone locally so that your mother can be paid back. I don’t want a business arrangement with another criminal organization. It’s bad enough that I’m stuck with the Dover situation. I won’t have connections with your family, as well.”

Russo smiled, then his lips slightly parted. “I’ve seen firsthand when you set your mind on something, you figure out how to make it happen.”

Russo’s face relaxed and his eyes skimmed over my face, causing a swirl of butterflies to erupt in my stomach.

“Doesn’t that make you mad?” I said it lightly, but I definitely wasn’t in a cheerful mood anymore.

“It’s exactly what I expect and, frankly, I like consistency.” Russo came even closer, and without warning, his mouth hovered close to mine. “May I kiss you, Sadie?”

I should have stepped back and said no immediately, but instead, I lingered there, unable to speak. I noticed the sounds of trees rustling and a siren blaring off somewhere past the park’s boundary. Nature smelled different here than back home. It was just enough vegetation to tease my senses, but the city was still too close to call it anything except a nicely maintained greenspace for the masses to enjoy. It was unlike the real wilderness, which didn’t give a hoot about the people who lived in it and could be dangerous while still breathtakingly beautiful.

It had been years since I’d been in any kind of real romantic relationship. I wasn’t sure if I was ready or would ever be. John lingered on the edge of my thoughts, and that’s why it didn’t feel right to kiss Russo. Knowing Chloe would be off to college soon, and loneliness might be why I’d reached a time in my life when I even considered the possibility of a romantic connection. I couldn’t deny the frustrating attraction to Possum Gap’s coroner. He was different than any man I’d ever known, and it was hard to believe we’d ever get past a proper first date.

Then there was John. We weren’t dating and I owed him nothing, except perhaps for saving my life on a couple of occasions. Yet the mountain man with the last name Dover somehow managed to weasel his way into my heart. I could never be with a Dover. And romance with the Yankee coroner was equally ridiculous.

All these thoughts bounced off each other in my mind while I nodded, giving Russo the signal to go ahead and kiss me.

When his lips touched mine, he sighed into my mouth. His arms swept around me, pulling me in close. The tension slipped away as he—

A scream tore through the darkness to our left.

We broke apart and our eyes met for only an instant before I took off in the direction where the shrill sound came from.

I heard a scuffle and aimed for the place off the path where the bushes were thick and moving. The light from the lamppost in this spot was out and it was noticeably darker. I didn’t have a gun, taser, or a baton. Scanning the ground, I couldn’t find anything heavy enough to use as a club.

I didn’t exactly feel helpless, but close to it. When I burst into the bushes, I was thankful to have on a winter coat to protect my arms from scraping branches. The scene was chaotic. I found a bald, wiry-built white man in a blue jacket and black rubber boots, grabbing a much smaller black female. She was giving it back as good as she got, throwing wild punches and cussing the man out in between heaving breaths. It was too cold for the very short shorts and a flimsy tank top beneath a fluffy black jacket she had on. Tennis shoes without socks completed the look that made me immediately think she might be a prostitute.

As I surged forward, the woman fell backwards, hitting the ground. The man didn’t seem to notice me until he shifted his gaze slightly. Seeing me barreling through the bushes caused his eyes to flare wider. I noticed his pasty skin and bloodshot eyes right before I reached him.

A couple of years earlier, Buddy and I went into the Saloon to break up a typical Saturday night brawl. I went in with my gun drawn, but Buddy knew the disrupters. He started out by shouting and when that didn’t work, he took his large, flattened hand and struck Max Codger in the side of the neck. The man, who was only a few inches shy of Buddy’s six-foot-seven height, dropped like a rock.

I’d been in awe and later, Buddy taught me the move on Brody Rankin, minus the actual hitting part. Buddy promised that if I ever found myself minus a weapon, if done correctly, someone my size could incapacitate a larger person. The need to drop someone in close proximity had never come up—until now.

Without time to think about it, I pumped my legs harder until I made it to his side. He tried to pivot, but the woman jumped to her feet and began pummeling his chest. She had his attention, and that’s when I used every muscle in my arm to drive the side of my hand at a forty-five-degree angle into his neck at the place about midway between his ear and shoulder.

He dropped like a ragdoll. I had no time to rejoice when the woman landed on his chest and began smacking his face. Then she reached into his pants pocket and yanked out his wallet. In a burst of speed that spun me around, she took off.

I reached for her, catching her jacket between my fingers. In an impressive maneuver, she slipped right out of the jacket and continued running.

I could barely catch a breath, but I was so spitting mad, that I dropped the jacket and raced after the woman who had adrenaline and knowledge of the trail system on her side.

“Stop!” the shout was firm and female.

I spotted two officers. One pointed a gun at me and the other at the runner. Throwing my hands up, I screeched to a stop. My lungs felt like they would explode as I watched the runner cut through another brushy section off the path.

The arrival of a dozen more cops all at once surprised me, and the woman couldn’t outrun them all. She darted past two officers but couldn’t make it over the stone wall before one of them grabbed her ankle, jerking her back inside the park. She cussed. She screamed. And the cops handled her roughly, attempting to subdue her.

A few long seconds later, the runner was on her stomach with her hands cuffed behind her back. I finally could breathe easier. The last thing I wanted to witness was the woman ending up dead.

“We have one down over here in the bushes! A man!” an officer called out.

The lady cop walked closer while I watched the unfolding scene of the runner being apprehended.

She responded to the other officer. “Is he dead?”

“No! Groggy, we’re helping him up now.”

I kept my hands up and turned my head slightly to observe a couple of officers bring the man out of the bushes.

Coughing, he looked around. When he saw me, he pointed. “That’s her! She came in…with a Kung Fu strike to my…neck. I don’t remember hitting…the ground.”

He shouted in between coughing. I said a silent thank you to Buddy for his excellent training.

I faced the lady officer. She had long black hair that was pulled into a ponytail beneath her hat. Around my age, her eyes were light blue, and she had an attractive round face.

“That man was assaulting the woman that you just cuffed,” I told her.

The attacker had good hearing. “You dumb bitch! She tried to rob me! I already paid her and then she went for my wallet.”

I glanced at the man, then the woman, who was hoisted to her feet.

“Huh,” I muttered as understanding creeped in. I saw the officer’s name was Brooklyn Desmond and dropped my arms.

“Let me get this straight,” Brooklyn said with a tight frown. “You thought Gerry Dilly was raping Rebel Jones and intervened by dropping him with a single strike to his neck?”

“Yep.” I watched her frown lift a little.

“You could have killed him,” she chastised.

“Not as long as it was done correctly, which it was. Without my gun, I didn’t have any other way to neutralize the person who I found to be the aggressor.” I worked to speak slowly and articulately so this Yankee cop understood me.

Officer Desmond’s brows rose. “You have a gun?”

“Wait, Brooke, you don’t understand—”

Russo came rushing up behind me but was stopped by another officer.

“It’s okay, Chad,” Officer Desmond said. “Let him through.”

Russo touched my side in a familiar way, and I caught Officer Desmond’s brows raise. This lady knows Russo.

“Brooke, this is my friend, Sheriff Sadie Mills.”

I remained quiet, allowing Russo to sort out the mess.

“Sheriff? She doesn’t sound like she’s from the city,” Officer Desmond said.

“She’s visiting my family with me from Kentucky.”

Officer Desmond smirked. “Really, Russo? Your girlfriend is a sheriff from Kentucky, and you’re serious enough to bring her to meet Celene and Anthony?”

I scrunched my mouth when I glanced at Russo, then raised my palm at the officer. “Not girlfriend. Russo is the coroner in my town and we’re here on business.”

She snorted loudly. “Yeah, right. I know for a fact that he doesn’t introduce women to his parents unless it’s significant. I didn’t get to meet his parents until after we’d broken up.”

“You two dated?” I tried to keep my face neutral and my voice casual.

Russo dragged his fingers through his hair while he grimaced.

“For a year,” Officer Desmond said.

“We were freshmen in college.” His gaze settled on me. “I never considered it dating.”

“You’re such a jerk, Ray.” Officer Desmond shook her head. When she fixated on me, her cheeks were flushed. “Now, what do we do with the sheriff?”

Russo rounded on the officer. “Nothing. Sadie did something very rare in this city by getting involved when she thought someone needed help. Who knows what this Gerry dude might have done to your lady of the night if Sadie hadn’t stepped in when she had. You should be thanking her.”

I decided Russo was putting it on awfully thick. “I don’t need her thanks, but I am curious how you know their names.”

“Gerry works maintenance for the city. He has a lot of vices, but his main one is soliciting sex. Rebel Jones is one of our regular arrests. She trolls the park and is known for attacking her Johns when they don’t pay up how much she thinks she’s owed.” Officer Desmond shrugged. “I’d say Gerry was in as much danger as scrappy Rebel was.”

I nodded. It was the same everywhere. We knew the bad players in our backyards and did our best to control them. “I’m sorry about the misunderstanding. I’d like to get back to the hotel. It’s been a long day.”

“A comfortable night in a hotel isn’t on your agenda, Sadie Mills.” She cracked a smile. “You have the right to remain—”

“No, Brooke.” Russo shook his head vigorously. “Sadie, no Sheriff Mills, did nothing wrong.”

“She assaulted Gerry and he’s pressing charges,” Officer Desmond turned to where Gerry was being looked at by a paramedic. “Isn’t that right, Gerry.”

Someone leaned in and whispered into Gerry’s ear before he started walking towards us. Recognition made me feel giddy.

“Ahh, naw,” Gerry said. “I’m letting it slide.”

I smiled at Officer Desmond, who turned on her heel and met Jimmy Conti before he reached us.

“It’s all right now, Sadie,” Russo whispered.

Officer Desmond and Jimmy quietly argued. She accused him of interfering with her vic and said something about having Mike Giordano on speed dial. In the end, she threw up her hands and walked off.

“It was good to see you, Brooke,” Russo called after her.

His former girlfriend flipped him off without a backward glance, which seemed to be a thing here.

Jimmy stopped in front of us, but his eyes were on Sadie. “Nice job taking Gerry down, but next time, if there ever is one, you look the other way.”

I stood up straighter. “I don’t think so.”

Jimmy sighed and shifted his gaze to Russo. “With or without the badge, this one’s a firecracker. I don’t envy you.” He lifted his chin towards the opening to the street. “Come on, I’ll give you a ride to the hotel. I’d like to have a good night’s sleep myself before tomorrow, and here I am trying to keep up with the two of you.” One of Jimmy’s brows rose when he met my gaze. “What the fuck, Sadie, don’t you get enough trees in Possum Gap?”

It suddenly dawned on me that Russo had taken me for the walk in the park against his family’s wishes. We were in New York for one reason only, and that was to meet up with his brother, Jimmy, and a handful of other goons before heading to Mexico.

Whatever chemistry between Russo and me was insignificant to the big picture. Tonight was just a distraction compared to the dangerous mission ahead of us.

I didn’t look at Russo. “Lead the way, Jimmy.”

When we reached the stone wall, I glanced back into the darkness that was peppered with a thousand lights. I would have liked to visit it in the daytime. Maybe I’d start my own bucket list and add a return trip someday when the sun shined brightly, and it was warmer.

“There’s never too many trees,” I muttered under my breath.

6

My fear of flying didn’t improve on the private jet that was half the size of a commercial one. Flipping through a magazine that I had no interest in reading, I listened to Russo’s conversation with his brother, Jimmy, and Mike. Six more men sat behind us, but they didn’t engage much with leadership. They were all tall, well-muscled men, with strong noses and dark hair. Four of them smiled a lot and two frowned the entire time. One of the frowning men had a nasty scar that ran from his hairline, over his nose, and ended on his square chin. They were a loud bunch, talking, cracking jokes, and eating the entire trip.

When we finally touched down, I glanced out the window to see a very different landscape than the northeastern one we’d left. Russo suggested that I dress for warmer weather, and I had. Glancing down at my khaki pants, blue blouse, and denim jacket, I wondered if I looked like a tourist. I softly snorted. But I guess it didn’t really matter what I wore to a shootout.

Russo touched my arm. “Are you ready?”

“Yep.” I rose and after I grabbed my small tote and backpack, I followed Russo down the narrow aisle and off the plane.

Hot, dusty wind blew into my face. The sun was so bright, I immediately reached into the side pocket of my leather tote, pulled out sunglasses, and put them on. My stomach clenched when I looked around. We had taxied to a remote part of the air strip. In the distance, I made out what appeared to be a terminal and a parking lot, but here, there was only a large metal hangar and a dozen vehicles. Half were black and the other half, white. Double the number of cars were men standing around with rifles strapped to their chests. We were easily outnumbered three to one, and that wasn’t taking into account any others who were waiting out of sight. Glancing up, I spotted the barrel of a gun poking over the edge of the roof. A sniper was in position.

As we came down the steps of the plane, all eyes were glued on us. Feeling like I did whenever I drove into the Dover compound, I inhaled deeply and slowly exhaled, focusing on controlling my breathing. Jimmy handed me a Glock 17 and three boxes of ammo when we boarded the plane that morning. The extra load made my tote heavy, but it was a feel-good weight. When I looked behind me, I found the six men from the back of the plane were openly armed.

The scene was absurd, and in my mind, I continued to question why I’d even come along on the mission as I made my way down the steps. I silently told myself that it’s mostly a ceremonious formality, at least that’s what Mike had called it. I figured there were too many ways to count how a meeting like this one could go sideways.

Dropping my gaze, I walked next to Russo and behind Tony, Jimmy, and Mike. A couple of men came forward and greeted us without handshakes and in coarse English. Mike surprised me by speaking Spanish to them. This made our hosts perk up.

The two men had light-brown skin tones, shiny black hair, and round jawlines. I guessed they were in their thirties or forties and looked similar enough to be related. One had on a red baseball cap, while the other wore a sombrero. Their gazes scanned our group, and the man in the sombrero tilted his head and pursed his lips when he saw me. He flicked his finger at me and said something to Mike that I didn’t understand. Mike glanced back, flicking his hand for me to come forward.

I didn’t hesitate. Russo remained close as we joined the front of the line.

Mike touched my shoulder. “Sadie, this is Gael Flores.” He motioned to the man in the sombrero. We nodded at each other. “And Mateo Flores.”

Mateo pulled the visor of his ballcap down lower while stepping forward. He reached out and we shook hands. I glanced at Russo. He remained frozen in place with his fingers laced behind his back. Neither Tony, nor Jimmy attempted to greet the Mexican men. The two Flores brothers spoke to each other and then to Mike before they turned and headed into the hanger.

We followed closely behind Mike. Tony dropped back and at the same time Russo bent sideways, Tony whispered something into his ear.

I hated not understanding what was going on but appreciated the fact that the Flores brothers were polite. The steady pounding of my pulse made me think everything was all right at the moment, but that could change in a heartbeat.

Entering the hanger, we left the bright blue sky behind us. The concrete flooring was swept clean. There were a couple of Cessna planes on one side and a jeep on the other. In the middle of the huge room was a table covered with white tablecloth and brimming with fruit, pretty desserts, and wine bottles. A hot breeze continued to blow in through the wide-open hangar doors.

I leaned into Russo. “The meeting is here?”

His mouth touched my ear. “Per our prior agreement.”

The Mexican and American men filed into the hanger. Our guys formed a half circle at our backs while the Flores men spread out to each corner of the space. There weren’t any women around that I could see.

Gael motioned to the table. “Have a seat.”

“Are Javier and Carlos coming?” Mike asked in English.

Mateo shook his head. “Our brothers have business elsewhere.” His accent was thick, but easy enough to understand.

Mike led the way for us, taking the first chair he came to. After he sat down, he plucked a few red grapes off a cluster on the platter in front of him and popped them into his mouth one at a time.

No one spoke while everyone sat down, and Mike was the only American who ate anything off the table, although Tony did accept a glass of wine.

“Let’s get down to business, eh?” Mike said as he leaned back and crossed his legs. “I’m sure we all have other things to do on this fine November day.”

I admired the lawyer’s grit. While Tony and Jimmy shifted their gazes around the expansive room uncomfortably, Mike didn’t seem to have a care in the world.

Mateo eyed Russo. “I see you brought the traitor to us.”

“We’re here to talk about the situation that caused your family’s distress.” Mike smiled. “Ray came along on his own free will to settle the matter once and for all.”

Gael spoke up. “Our youngest brother rots in an American prison because of this idiot”—he pointed at Russo—“and you think the matter can be settled?”

“Hey, you don’t disrespect my bro—”

Mike thrust his hand at Tony, instantly silencing him. “Yes, Gael, I do. Because I’m going to get your brother out of prison.” He pulled a paper from his briefcase and handed it to Gael.

Mateo, who was still standing, leaned over Gael’s shoulder. “What is this?”

“A Rule 60 motion to dismiss, which I filed at the proper court yesterday in New Jersey,” Mike said. He flicked his finger at Russo. “You see, Ray Russo made a mistake while performing the autopsy of the deceased woman. It was significant enough that I’m certain a judge will throw out the conviction and the youngest Flores brother will be a free man within a couple of weeks.”

Mateo took the paper from Gael while I swiveled to see Russo’s reaction, who stared straight ahead. Russo’s only movement was a couple of twitches at the corner of his mouth.

Mateo focused on Russo. “Why the change of heart, young man?” His English was clipped, but perfectly understandable. “You claimed to be the one Russo family member with such high morals, you couldn’t fudge the autopsy report to save Diego from a prison sentence, even when your own life was threatened. Why the change of heart, amigo?”

Thank you, Mateo. I was wondering the same thing. I watched Russo inhale deeply before he answered the other man.

“I’ve seen the error in my ways and filed the necessary paperwork within the state. Mike’s right. The sentence will be overturned.”

I’d promised myself to keep a low profile. That I was there to make sure Russo came back to his coroner’s position in Possum Gap alive and well, but in that moment, my resolve faltered.

“Wait.” I squeezed Russo’s arm. “Will this affect your license?”

“It will be revoked in New Jersey and New York,” he said quietly without looking at me.

Tony leaned over, catching my eye. “We’re not sure about Kentucky. Standards are different there.”

My face warmed and my stomach clenched. So Russo’s family forced him to give up his career to make peace with drug lords, gunrunners, and human traffickers? Where was the battle I’d expected from the Italian mobsters? This wasn’t turning out the way I’d envisioned at all.

“That’s not right!” I said to everyone in the room.

Mateo laughed. “Ah, now you’re upset. Perhaps, a bullet in your man’s head is a better ending to this fiasco?”

When I rose from my chair, Tony and Jimmy shot up at the same time. The rest of the men in the building, Mexicans and Americans, suddenly came to life. Guns were drawn and pointed at each other.

I stuffed my hand into the tote that still hung on my shoulder, but Russo’s fingers encircled my wrist. “No, Sadie. This is what I want.” He finally raised his gaze to see me. “I should have gone along with the original plan at the very beginning.”

“You did the right thing!”

Russo’s face sagged. “It put my family in danger, and it also put Possum Gap’s citizens in harm’s way. I couldn’t live with myself if something happened to you or Chloe.”

I hated that he’d said my daughter’s name in front of these lowlifes. Anger surged in my gut towards Russo, his family, and the Flores brothers. But I was also practical enough to understand all of it and that might have upset me the most.

Gael cleared his throat loudly. “This is a good start. We’ll wait to see Diego released before we call an official truce. Though for our part, the violence will stop until then. We want to resume business as usual.”

“Good, good,” Mike said.

Mateo raised his hand and walked around the table. “There’s another matter to be resolved.” His gaze locked on me. “We want our dead men back, Sheriff Mills.”

He had known that I was a law officer this entire time. My eyes widened as I processed his request.

Mateo seemed to enjoy taking me by surprise, and added, “You come here on your very high horse preaching right and wrong, yet you live among lawless people.” When I opened my mouth, he wagged his finger at me and made a tsking sound. “We did our homework, Sheriff. Your man is the son of a criminal organization—”

“Russo is not my man—”

“We will have none of your lies!” Mateo stepped closer and that’s when Russo stood up, positioning himself between Mateo and me. “See!” Mateo’s entire face widened while thrust his hands forward. “You’re a bad liar, Sheriff. Our people desire to bury their dead in our own soil, alongside their relatives who left this world before them.”

“Please, Diego will be freed, and relations will be restored,” Russo said politely. “There’s no reason to argue with Sadie about anything.”

Tony found his voice. “You’ll have your men’s bodies.”

I turned to Tony. “It’s not that simple. They came into our town and began shooting. I can’t just release the bodies without Kentucky’s DCI jumping all over the case.”

Mateo raised his chin. “You are a sheriff in your town, and”—he pointed at Russo—“he is the man in charge of the bodies. It can and will be done.”

“But his license—” I stammered.

“He’ll lose it anyway,” Mateo finished.

Tony faced me. “We’ll worry about Russo’s career later. Right now, I need you to contact your deputy and make the arrangements for him to meet my people at the morgue.”

I pressed my hand to my forehead. “You would need a refrigerated truck.”

“We have one and it will be in Possum Gap this afternoon.” He grinned, but it was a tight grin. “Everything is in place.”

I hated what I was about to do, but I didn’t have a choice, rationalizing that snapping any connection with the Flores cartel was in Possum Gap’s best interest. I didn’t want these killers returning to my town to battle it out for the bodies of their dead people.

“Okay. I’ll make the call—”

“There’s one more thing,” Mateo said.

Tony snorted while I narrowed my gaze at the grinning man.

“This entire situation has been a huge hassle for my family.” He shrugged, scrunching the side of his mouth. “To put it behind us and restore a friendly working relationship, I request a favor before you go.”

Mike stood and braced his hands on the table, leaning forward. “What do you need from us?”

“Not you.” He turned his head, looking at Russo, then me. “These two.”

“Explain,” Tony said sharply.

Gael is the brother who answered. “We have a small incident within our ranks here at home. An outside coroner and a detective could help us get to the bottom of the problem.”

“Hell no,” was Tony’s immediate response.

Russo stood and placed his hand on his brother’s shoulder. “I can’t volunteer for Sadie, but I’m willing to assist if it lessens the tensions I caused.”

Tony faced Russo. “Don’t be an ass. You’ll be in danger, and we can’t trust—”

“Silenzio!” Mike said. “Parlo Italiano!”

I got the gist of what was said even though I didn’t speak the language. Tony did what the attorney instructed and began speaking in Italian to the lawyer. I raised my brows when Russo jumped into their conversation, speaking the same language. I glanced at the Flores brothers and the other Mexicans and could tell by their curious looks that they didn’t understand what was being said.

I’d always wished I could speak another language, and listening to how fluently Russo rattled on with the Americans of Italian heritage made me a bit envious. It was just a passing thought, however. I was actually stressing about the request. They wanted me to investigate a Mexican mystery? It sounded absurd, and intriguing at the same time.

Tony stepped away from Russo and Mike, and up to Gael and Mateo. “One day. That’s it. We leave tomorrow evening regardless of what Russo has been able to achieve on your behalf.”

Gael nodded, but Mateo turned to me. “What about her?”

“The sheriff will remain here at the hangar with us until it’s time to leave.” Tony said it with a confident thrust of his chin.

“Thanks for thinking about my safety, Tony, but I’m going with Russo.”

“Sadie, it’s not a good idea—”

I ignored Russo’s pleading expression and joined Tony. Gael’s lips were pursed while Mateo smiled.

I hadn’t forgotten Serenity’s request either and decided this might be my only opportunity to find the Amish woman she searched for.

“I’m not sure how much use I’ll be on a case in another country where I don’t even speak the language, but I’m willing to assist Russo when I can.” I paused, glancing between the brothers. There really wasn’t anything about their appearance that would give anyone a clue that they were cold-blooded killers, running a deadly cartel. I was very much aware of who they were and what they did. But like it was with the Dovers, I also saw humanity shining in their hard eyes. These men had a code they lived by. There were rules and a certain honor of sorts. Otherwise, there would be no society at all. No enjoyment of the fruits of their criminal endeavors. “I’ll allow your men’s bodies to be transported by the Russo family back to you, and I’ll also help Russo on this mysterious investigation, on the condition you answer a simple and probably inconsequential question of mine.”

Gael tilted his head. His face remained guarded. He was definitely the more paranoid brother of the two. Mateo crossed his arms while his smile grew. It was the amused brother who responded to my demand.

“What question is of so much importance to you, Sheriff? You’re a long way from home and before our boys visited your town searching for Raymond Russo, we didn’t know Possum Gap, Kentucky existed.”

“I certainly hope after tomorrow, you’ll forget it does,” I said firmly.

Gael smacked his lips. “We hope we never have need to return to the backwards place you call home. Hillbillies are too unpredictable for our taste.”

I grinned. “And seventy-five percent of our population are expert marksmen.”

Mateo chuckled. “That too.” He dipped his head, eyeing me. “Ask your question.”

My heart skipped a beat. “Where’s Janet Yoder?”

7

Both Russo and Tony leaned in. Mike grunted softly.

“What are you doing?” Russo whispered. His brown eyes were wild. “You haven’t mentioned this woman before.”

Tony was more composed. “Why would you think our associates know anything about a person you’re looking for?”

I turned back to Mateo. “Because they took her from the Live Life Health Spa in California sometime around five or six years ago.”

Gael made a humming sound before turning to Mateo. They spoke briefly in Spanish, then Mateo shifted his gaze back to me. “I remember this young woman. She worked at the spa for a short time and then came to Mexico after catching the eye of one of our men.”

I swear, I felt like my heart banged into my throat. I’d tossed the name out, thinking it was similar to throwing a dart at a board in a pitch-black room, never dreaming I’d hit the bullseye.

“Where is she now?” I hoped my voice didn’t sound as jittery as I suddenly felt.

The Flores brothers looked at each other. Gael shrugged and Mateo nodded slightly before he spoke.

“I haven’t kept up with the woman, but I believe she is in a town not far from here and neighboring the one which our small problem lies in.”

“How convenient,” Russo said sarcastically. He dropped his head back and drew in a sharp breath.

Tony laughed, then smacked Russo on the back. “The plot thickens.”

“This isn’t amusing, Tony,” Mike said. The man’s puckered face made him appear sick to his stomach.

“Come now, Raymond and Sheriff Mills.” Mateo gestured with his hand for us to follow him. “With only a day to accomplish our goals, time is wasting.”

Tony grabbed Russo’s arm when he started to follow Mateo. “Wait. I’m sending some men with—”

“No!” Mateo shook his head. “This is not something that can be done with an army.” He smirked. “Otherwise, we would have taken care of it ourselves. Stealth is what we need and must have.”

Tony glanced at Mike and Russo. Jimmy had quietly joined the men. He appeared to be waiting for orders.

Russo licked his lips and glanced at me before he focused on his brother. “It’s fine, Tony. We just made amends. Sadie and I will return tomorrow, healthy and very much alive. It’s in their best interest that we do.”

“No worries, everyone,” Gael said with raised hands. “These two will not be entirely alone. Our people will be there to lend a hand if things deteriorate.”

“Now, vamos!” Mateo ordered.

Tony held onto his head like it was going to explode. “Ma is going to kill me if anything happens to you, Ray.” He swiveled his head to me. “Keep him safe and I owe you one.”

“I think you’re already indebted to me, but sure. I’ll add this to the ever-lengthening list.” I narrowed my gaze. “Someday, I’ll call in these favors.”

We left the shade and still air of the hangar for the blaring sunlight and warm breeze outside. Waiting next to a beat-up tan SUV, Gael and Mateo talked to two other men, who were both much younger than the Flores brothers. I caught one of them smiling a lot at me. His name was Alejandro. The stoic one was Luis.

Gael walked away without another word while Mateo joined us for a moment. “The boys will take you from here.”

“You’re not coming?” I blurted the question out.

“No. I have things to do, and my presence will only be a distraction. I’ve instructed them”—he nodded at Alejandro and Luis—“to bring you back here tomorrow afternoon. The trip is only forty-five minutes at most. Good luck.”

Russo jogged in front of Mateo when the man turned away. “Aren’t you going to fill us in on the case?”

“Luis will tell you everything you need to know.” He offered a cheerful smile. “I hope you’re successful.”

The last part almost sounded like a threat. Lord, what had I gotten myself into?

The backseat was tight, so I had to squeeze in close to Russo, and with a roaring engine, I knew it lacked a muffler. Russo’s head knocked into mine when he bent even closer to whisper.

“You should have stayed with Tony and Mike.”

“That would have defeated the purpose of me being here,” I told him.

Russo thudded his head on the head rest. “You can’t protect me. We’re both in danger now.”

I sat back and let out a long breath. “It sounds pretty straightforward to me. We’ll do what we can and get out of here tomorrow.”

“Oh, my God, Sadie.” Again, his face nearly touched mine when he whispered fiercely, “We’re surrounded by killers. Regardless of Gael and Mateo’s intentions, this could quickly turn into a bloodbath that you and I will be drowning in.”

“Ahh, Mr. Russo, we can hear you.” It was Alejandro. He flashed white, straight teeth in the rearview mirror while he drove.

“Yeah, so?” Russo said.

I thought Russo was overly uptight. Sure, I understood why he was freaking out, but at the moment, things were calm and there was nothing we could do about our circumstances. I was still enjoying the adrenaline rush from learning that Janet Yoder might be alive and my heart bounced around in my chest at the thought of being able to call Serenity with the good news. She’d be shocked and likely impressed that I was able to solve her case of the missing Amish woman so easily.

The cloud of dust kicked up by the SUV on the dirt path finally stopped when Alejandro lurched onto a properly paved road. I ignored Russo’s frowning face and sat forward, leaning slightly into the front seat between the young men.

“So what are we walking into, guys?” I wanted to develop a friendship of sorts with these men. They were basically our lifeline in unfamiliar territory.

The sun blazed over the bland-colored, level landscape. Blunt trees poked out of the tannish earth here and there, and we passed a mostly dirt pasture where around a dozen cows swatted flies with their tails at the edge of a tiny pond. Its edges were deep mud, and besides a couple of yellowing round bales of hay, there wasn’t much else for the cattle to eat.

It was a lonely strip of road where there were long pauses between seeing another car. Occasionally, a private residence or what looked like a business popped up, but I got the feeling we were in a very rural jurisdiction. My mind skipped back to Possum Gap and the beautiful mountains that I lived in. Mateo might be right about the number of hillbillies in my town, but it was still a stunning location. Every season was striking in its own way. Soon, snow would blanket the hills and the grounds of Helena House. First though, we had to celebrate Thanksgiving and if we stayed on schedule, I would keep my promise to Chloe.

Luis coughed, removed his black ballcap, and scratched his head. Having thick, curly black hair, he took his time. I felt a sudden pang of apprehension when I glanced at Luis and Alejandro and suspected that they were stalling.

“My little brother is dead,” Luis said with a ragged sigh.

Now, we’re getting somewhere.

I reached into my tote, grabbing a little note pad and a pen. “What’s his name?”

“Angel Moguel. Our mother is cousins of Mateo, Gael, and the other Flores brothers. That is why they seek justice. It is a family matter.”

Russo squeezed into the narrow opening with me. “How did he die?”

Luis looked back. “That is for you to decide.”

“You don’t know?”

Russo’s voice was crisp and lacked the nervous edge from before. His curiosity had been roused.

“Our el juez de instruccion told everyone he died of natural causes.” Luis put his hat back on. “I do not believe that and neither does the rest of my family. Angel was only twenty-six and in perfect health.”

I searched Russo’s eyes for clarification, and he read my mind. “Basically, the same as me—a coroner.”

Alejandro spoke up. “Angel was my best amigo. We went to school together and while I work for the Flores brothers, like most of the men around here do, Angel wanted to help people. He had a gentle soul.”

“What was his occupation?” I asked, pushing my hair out of my face as the wind whipped into the cab from the open windows.

“An enfermero or a nurse to you.”

Alejandro liked to talk and even though he spoke about his dead friend, he still smiled. I got the gist that it was just his vibrant personality.

“That’s where he met his wife, Elena,” Luis said. “In el hospital.”

I jotted down notes.

“Will I have access to the autopsy report and the body?” Russo asked.

The two men glanced at each other. It was Luis who answered after he retrieved a couple of papers out of the glove box and handed them to Russo. “He has already been buried, but we will dig him up for you.”

My head snapped Luis’ way. “Isn’t that kind of extreme?” I glanced at the papers in Russo’s hands. “Hey, someone translated those already.”

“Yes, Gael did it for you,” Luis confirmed.

Russo grunted. “I suppose he had no doubt we’d agree to this side job, huh?”

“No one says no to the Flores brothers,” Alejandro said with a grin.

I snickered. “The Rankin brothers sure did.”

“Then they are dead!” Alejandro said. He gazed into the rearview mirror. “Tell me who these Rankin Brothers are? A new cartel we haven’t been told about?”

“Naw, nothing like that. And they’re very much alive, while your bosses’ men are very much dead.” I leaned back. “There’s always more dangerous fish in the sea.”

“You are in our sea now,” Alejandro said, not losing the grin.

“Yep, I’m well aware.” I turned to Russo. “What does the autopsy tell you?”

“A complete one wasn’t done. No body cavities were opened. Just a visual examination.” He glanced over. “Basically, an assumption of the cause of death was listed.”

“Is that even legal?” I asked.

Russo folded the papers and stuck them into my tote. “In the states, it sometimes happens when an elderly person passes away and the cause of death is obvious and the family doesn’t want the body disturbed or if there’s been a persistent disease, something like that.” His gaze locked on mine. “In a case when a young person just drops dead, it would be considered irregular not to do a full autopsy to determine the cause of death. The heart would be looked at, the lungs, you get my drift.”

Russo faced Luis. “Why do you think an autopsy wasn’t performed?”

“Because Angel’s wife killed him.”

8

“Why on earth do you think that?” I asked.

“Because she’s been screwing a doctor at work and wanted free from Angel,” Alejandro said.

I started to ask another question, and Russo held his finger up to make me wait. “Okay. Let me get this straight. Angel is a cousin of the Flores brothers and in good standing with them, correct?”

“Right,” Luis said.

“Wouldn’t it be terribly dumb of his wife to murder him and even dumber for a local coroner to fudge the autopsy to cover it up?”

“One would think so,” Luis said.

“What about the local police? Has anyone talked to them?” Russo pressed.

Luis looked at his cell phone while talking. “The policia don’t matter.”

“They most certainly do—”

Russo squeezed my knee, and I stopped talking.

He let out a long sigh. “Luis, Alejandro, are you taking us into a rival cartel’s territory?”

Alejandro swatted Luis’ arm. “This one is smart. He might get the job done after all.”

“Oh, God.” Russo flopped back in the seat and covered his face with his hands.

I understood the implication and while my stomach dipped, I didn’t feel the weight of doom as heavily as Russo did.

“We must be quick about it,” I said carefully.

“Oh, yes,” Alejandro said. “Quick like cheetahs.”

I nodded and put away the notebook. The entire investigation had turned into a covert recon mission. “Too bad Summit isn’t here,” I joked.

“Stop, Sadie,” Russo groaned. “This is bad. Really bad.”

I pointed at Alejandro and Luis. “They have their wits about them. It must be doable.”

“They’re running on passion for their brother and friend, not common sense,” Russo pointed out.

“True,” Luis said. “But we have a plan, and Gael and Mateo wouldn’t have allowed us to move forward with it if we were only going to die.”

“Life is cheap around here,” Russo said lightly.

Luis finally smiled when he looked over his shoulder. “Maybe ours are. The two of you are valuable. It will work out. You see.”

“I can’t perform an autopsy without the proper examination room. I’ll need tools and a lab—”

“We have thought of everything,” Alejandro said happily. “A local doctor is in Mexico City for a long weekend. We’ll break into his clinic after we dig up Angel.”

“You guys actually planned this?” I asked, kind of in awe of their tenacity.

“That’s right,” Luis said.

Russo nudged me. “How are you so damn calm?”

“It sounds like they’ve thought of everything.” When Russo’s eyes widened and he released a harsh breath, I felt the last bit of jitters leave my body. “I think we’re destined to be here, Russo.”

“Destined?” he croaked. “Why? Because your buddy, Serenity, sent you on a wild goose chase?”

“It isn’t so wild, is it? Mateo remembers her.” I cocked my head. “She’s an American, Russo,”—I lowered my voice to a whisper—“who was sex trafficked. Finding her and bringing her home if possible is what we have to do.”

Russo’s chest deflated. “I suppose you’re right.” He chuckled. “You’re always right. Let’s just hope you have a few of those nine lives left.”

I leaned forward again and asked the question to either man. “Do you know this town where Janet Yoder is supposed to be?”

“We do,” Alejandro said. “Although we don’t spend much time there, I think I know who you speak of.”

“Really?” It can’t be this easy.

Alejandro spoke Spanish to Luis and the other man nodded.

Luis lifted his chin. “There you go, Sheriff. Welcome to Pueblo Mustang.”

“We’re looking for Janet first?” Before they answered, I saw the rough looking wooden sign. “No, we need to stop here after we dig up Angel’s body and—”

“It’s on the way and we may not have time later.” Luis fully turned in his seat, narrowing his gaze at me. “Okay. You have thirty minutes and then we’re on our way.”

“But”—I looked around the small cab—“there’s no room for her, and—”

Luis thrust his hand up. “No, Sheriff. If this woman is the one you seek, she can not leave. That isn’t part of the deal.”

“Oh, hold on, wait one minute—”

Russo gripped my arm, and I saw him shake his head as he flashed a deep frown at me.

Darn it. Russo was right. My excitement had kept me from thinking it through. Even if Janet is here, I can’t just drag her safely out of Mexico. That would be something for the US government to do. But then, I highly doubted any officials would care much about an Amish woman, especially if what Serenity said was true and a US congressman is connected to her disappearance.

I dropped my head, suddenly feeling whooped by my own practical thoughts.

This is all for nothing…

9

If you blinked, you’d miss Pueblo Mustang entirely. The dusty town’s Main Street held a grocery store, a Catholic Church, a bar, and a tattoo parlor, and that’s about it. We drove past a dozen little houses that were close to the street before Alejandro turned onto a gravel road that became dirt about a quarter of a mile further.

Alejandro stopped the car when three cows walked across the road. When he started back up, he moved at a snail’s pace.

“I don’t understand,” I finally said. “How do you know Janet and where she possibly lives?”

“It’s a small world, isn’t it?” Alejandro said, grinning.

I licked my lips, suddenly wishing for a bottle of water. Ignoring the pang of thirst, I asked, “Where exactly are you taking us?”

The two men exchanged glances before Luis spoke. “There aren’t many gabachos in the area and they stick out when we encounter them.”

“Gabachos?” I asked.

“Gringos—you know, Americans.”

I sat still for a few long seconds and then felt an invisible tug to address the greater issue. “What do you think about Janet Yoder being kidnapped and sold into slavery in your country?”

Alejandro looked straight ahead. For the first time, his mouth dipped, and he frowned. Luis’ expression remained flat.

“That is none of our concern,” Luis said. “Would it improve your mood to know the woman you seek is married and living a life she chose here?”

“That’s hard to believe.” I shook my head and sharpened my gaze when Luis pointed at a small, square, white-sided house.

There was a front porch and on it sat a couple of rocking chairs. Next to the house was a shed with a pen where a colorful flock of chickens pecked the ground. Tied on long stretches of ropes were two milking goats that grazed the sparse clumps of grass in the front yard.

The breath caught in my throat when I spotted a slender woman in a blue dress that looked awfully similar to the dresses the Amish back home wore. She was hanging clothes on a clothesline that stretched from a back stoop to a lone tree in the yard.

“I’ll be damned,” Russo said. “Is that her?”

“I don’t know. I’ve never met her, and Serenity didn’t have any pictures…”

Luis looked back. “I think it is her.”

I scrunched my face. “Why are you helping me?”

He shrugged. “Why not? She isn’t being held captive. She can go whenever she wants. Perhaps you will leave my country with peace in your mind. Something I may never have with my brother’s death. Call it a gift for discovering that my brother was murdered.”

I sucked in a breath. “I’m not certain we can do that, but I promise we’ll try.”

Luis nodded, then tapped his watch. “It’s now twenty-five minutes.”

Russo grasped the door handle, and I stopped him.

“I think it’s best if I go alone. You kind of look intimidating in your black slacks and white shirt.”

Russo swayed back in the seat. He smirked. “Really? I think that’s the nicest compliment you’ve ever given me, Sadie.”

Alejandro laughed and Luis snorted. I got out of the SUV quickly, lacking any kind of comeback for Russo’s dumb statement.

I walked across the yard at a fast pace. A single red rooster must have somehow escaped the pen. He followed close to my heels, and when I made a sideswipe with my foot to push him back, he began flogging my leg.

Growing up in Appalachia, I’d been chased by my fair share of aggressive roosters as a kid. I wasn’t in the mood and knowing Russo and the two Mexican men were watching, I bumped the rooster with my boot. That wasn’t good enough. The dang thing came back for more.

Jogging closer to the woman, I kept one eye on the rooster that sped up to catch me. With my focus on the irate bird, I didn’t notice that the woman had picked up a bucket. A second later, she was at my side, dousing the rooster in water.

“Go on, Buddy, scat!” she shouted.

I noticed she spoke English and then I saw that even though her skin was tanned, she had a spattering of freckles across the bridge of her nose. Her eyes were blue and her hair, strawberry blonde. This has to be Janet.

“Thank you for that,” I said, catching my breath.

“No worries.” She grinned. “He’ll be in the pot by evening, if that makes you feel any better.”

It didn’t, but I wouldn’t tell her that. Luis was right. Whoever this woman was, she seemed in good spirits and with no one else around, not being held against her will.

“Hey, I just realized that you’re speaking English.” Her grin widened. “It’s been a while since I heard anyone speak it.”

“Do you speak Spanish?” I asked, not really understanding why I was stalling.

Maybe it was because this woman looked content with her life. I hated to stir up bad memories or rock a boat on still waters.

“Yes, sort of.” She rolled her eyes. “I understand better than I speak it. Does that make sense?”

“Definitely.” I swallowed down the unease that washed over me.

“I’m sorry to ask, but who are you?” The woman’s brow rose, and her voice became soft and cautious. When her eyes widened slightly, I thought I saw understanding flash across her eyes, then it disappeared.

“Sadie Mills. I’m from Possum Gap, Kentucky.” I kept my title secret for the moment.

“Nice to meet you! I’m Janet.” She shook my hand with a firm grip. “It’s hot.” She fanned the air in front of her oval-shaped face with her hand. “Come on. I can offer you a cola in the house.”

The clock is ticking, Sadie, I reminded myself. But I found myself saying, “Sounds good.”

“Do your companions want one?” she asked, looking past me at the SUV.

“I think it’s better if we talk alone.”

“Oh, I see.” She started for the house. “Follow me, Sadie.”

I glanced back at the SUV to find that Russo had his head out the back window, watching me. The tote was over my shoulder and inside it was my handgun.

I hoped that a quick conversation would answer my questions and give Serenity the closure that she needed in her case, which also meant talking this woman into testifying against a US congressman.

If I played my cards right, Janet Yoder would be amicable to the game plan, and I’d be out of here in no time at all.

10

Janet handed me a bottle of soda and then popped the lid off one for herself. She plopped into the chair and after taking a deep breath, wiped her brow. It was really warm in the tiny kitchen. With the air outside barely stirring, the floral curtains remained still even though the single window was opened all the way.

I looked around at the cramped, cluttered space. It was very different than Lucinda or Martha’s overly tidy kitchens. Dirty dishes overflowed the sink and knick-knacks covered in dust filled a shelf above the counter. A crucifix hung on the dingy, yellowed wall behind Janet. The room needed a good dusting and fresh paint. An air-freshener wouldn’t hurt. I wrinkled my nose at the dry, stale smell.

Sitting across from Janet, I took a sip and then asked, “Did you convert to Catholicism?

Her face scrunched, making her look confused. She turned her head, following my gaze.

“Oh, that’s Pedro’s. He’s the religious one, not me.”

Janet’s expression remained neutral, almost bored.

“You used to be Amish, though, right?” I said softly.

Janet nodded. Her eyes sought an imaginary place off in the distance, as if lost in thought. “That was a long time ago.” She exhaled softly. “I’m not sure I even remember how to speak the language. I haven’t heard it since the day I left.”

“Was that around six years ago?”

Janet didn’t seem flustered at an unexpected stranger’s arrival or that I was asking nosey questions. I got the feeling she’d been waiting for this day for a long time.

“Yes, I suppose.” She shrugged, then offered a slight smile. “I’ve lost track of time.”

I took a gamble that Janet was ready to speak about her past. Knowing that Alejandro and Luis were counting down the minutes made me rush the conversation.

“Janet, do you know why I’m here?”

“I think so.”

When she fell silent, I started to understand her lackadaisical demeaner. Her life was about to drastically change. I guessed that she was stalling, maybe even savoring the last moment of this life she’d made for herself.

“Two years after you went missing, another girl—only fourteen years old—met the same fate as you. Then, six months ago, a thirteen-year-old. They were both from the Muscat Amish Settlement, your community.”

Janet’s gaze began to focus and when her eyes met mine, they were sharper. “I’m confused. You said you’re from Kentucky?”

“That’s right.”

“Why are you here? I always imagined several men in black suits from a US government agency would pound on my door one day.” Her lips pressed together. “I wasn’t expecting a lady cop to show up in a beat-up car with a Mexican escort.”

“Yeah, that part is weird, I know.” I chuckled and took a sip of soda. It was refreshing and the sugar gave me a nice jolt. “You see, I’m actually in Mexico for an entirely different reason.”

Janet cocked her head and stared at me. Suddenly looking stiff, she drew her knees up near her chest and wrapped her arms around herself.

“How do you even know me?” She said the words slowly.

“My friend is a sheriff in Indiana. She was working on a tragic case that took her to your hometown and there she learned you and two others had disappeared. Her name is Serenity Adams.”

Her gaze didn’t falter. “What kind of tragedy?”

I took shallow breaths, quickly thinking about how best to proceed, and wishing Serenity was here to conduct the interview. She’d filled me in on the main points, but I didn’t know any of the subtle details. Feeling like a blind woman in this instance, I hesitated.

Janet licked her lips. “I assume you want something from me. Otherwise, why would your friend send you on a search to find me.” She smiled slightly. “Go on. I need to know before I can answer any questions you may have.”

Feeling like I didn’t have a choice, I decided to be honest. “Do you get any news here?” I glanced around the room. “I didn’t see a TV or even a radio when we walked through the house.”

She shook her head. “I’m kept in the dark about…everything.”

The spark left her eyes. She might not be kept behind bars or shackled, but Janet was still a prisoner.

My heart began drumming harder. This would be more complicated than I’d hoped.

“What about a cell phone?”

Her smile was sad. She dropped her gaze, hugging her knees tighter as she balanced on the chair. “I’ve never had one. They weren’t allowed when I was Amish, and after, well, I couldn’t have one either.”

I leaned over the table. “Janet, I know what happened to you. You challenged the evil man who had used you and to silence you, he had you trafficked to California. What I don’t know is how you ended up here. Is Pedro your captor?”

Janet let out a long, ragged sigh. Her cover fell away and suddenly, I could feel her prickly emotions from across the table. The poor young woman must have been holding it together by a thread and now, her resolve began to fray.

“Pedro is kind to me if that’s what you’re asking.” She sniffed, turning her head away. “He was not the man of my choosing, but it was a way out of the hell I was living in. Pedro rescued me from a place where I was forced to bed five, six, sometimes ten, men a day. That time is only a dream now—no, a nightmare. Perhaps the drugs have brought on this fog that I can’t shake or maybe it’s a way of moving on with some kind of sanity.” She sighed deeply, shrugging at the same time. “Pedro saved me.” Her gaze snapped back at me. “If you can call this salvation.”

Her sadness was so thick in the little room that it affected me, making it difficult to breathe normally. I rubbed the corners of my wet eyes with my fingertips. I hadn’t come to Mexico for Janet, but in that instant, she was the only thing that mattered. I scooted my chair closer.

“I can take you home—”

“No, you can’t.”

“I have connections and there are people back in the states who will help—”

“You never told me about the tragedy. Please do.”

I leaned back. Janet had been separated from her family, friends, and community for the past six years. Of course, she would be interested in what was happening back home. But I worried that after everything she’d been through, the news may be too troubling.

Janet dropped her feet to the ground and leaned over, touching my knee. “Please. I need to know.”

Her doe eyes pleaded with me, and I decided in that instant that Janet wasn’t the same kidnapped teen who had been sex trafficked. She was now a grown woman and deserved to know the truth.

“Recently, a man drove his pickup truck through a crowd of festivalgoers in Indiana, killing twelve and seriously injuring twice that many.”

“That’s horrible.” She dropped her gaze, and hesitated before adding, “But that was in Indiana. How is that connected to my home in Pennsylvania?”

I swallowed down the knot in my throat and forged on. “You see, about half of the families from your Muscat community moved to the Blood Rock Amish community a few months ago.”

“Whatever for?”

“Because of you and the other two girls.”

Janet’s brow furrowed. “I don’t understand.”

“There was a rift in the Muscat community regarding the disappearance of three teenagers. Some believed that there were those in the settlement that knew where you were taken and others who fought to protect the accused. Ultimately, the community split.”

“Were Amish killed by the truck?”

I nodded. “I don’t remember the names, but I believe half of the fatalities were Muscat Amish.”

She blinked, inhaling deeply. “Who drove the truck?”

I tried to recall everything Serenity had told me and one thing that stuck out in my mind was that the killer had been in love with Janet Yoder. That’s why he eventually snapped and became a mass murderer, because of his frustration over not only losing Janet but not being able to save her or find a champion for her.

I didn’t know if Janet’s feelings were reciprocal, although I kind of doubted it. She was only fifteen when she’d been taken and at that time, she’d found herself drawn into a relationship with a Pennsylvania US representative, which became her downfall.

“Liam Brenneman.” I found myself holding my breath.

“Liam?” Janet looked past me. I saw the flicker of something in her eye—perhaps a memory. “Is he all right?”

“He died, Janet.”

“I see.” She stood up, taking a couple of steps to the porcelain sink. Turning her back to me, she gripped it with her hands.

A car horn sounded. It was a quick beep, a warning that I had just about run out of time. My mind swirled about what to do with Janet.

I rose, standing next to the table. “Janet. Your testimony against Nash Byrne could be the one thing that will end his disgusting abuse of girls. You can put him behind bars. Do you remember Rita?”

Janet nodded. “Yes. A quiet girl with dark brown hair and large, kind eyes.”

“They killed her, Janet. She deserves justice. And Abby Schwartz too. She’s alive, but she’s just a kid, and she has a long road to recovery ahead of her.”

“Abby?” Janet didn’t turn around. “He hurt Abby? She was only six or seven when I went away. A smiley-faced little girl who loved to find toads and carry them around.”

“The same things that were done to you happened to that little girl that you remember. You, and maybe only you, can stop Nash Byrne.”

“So much suffering and death. And fear. Living with the constant fear might be the worst part of all.”

“I will help you, Janet.” The car horn beeped again, and I rolled my eyes. There wasn’t enough time to do this properly. I joined Janet at the sink. “I have to go now, but trust me, I promise, I’ll come back and get you out of here.”

Janet wouldn’t look at me. “I don’t think I want to go. There’s no life for me with the Amish anymore. My sins are too great.”

I touched her arm. “You didn’t sin at all! You were just a kid. Nash took advantage of you, then he got rid of you when you wouldn’t cooperate. None of this is your fault,” I told her forcefully.

Janet continued to look out the window at the landscape that was muted colors and blah. The rooster peeked under the lone tree, oblivious that this was his last day alive.

“If I had gone along with Nash’s wishes, none of this would have happened. Rita, Abby, the poor people who were run over, and Liam. Mostly Liam. He wouldn’t have become a killer. He wouldn’t be dead.”

Another longer beep sounded. My time was up. I grasped Janet’s shoulders and turned her towards me. When she wouldn’t look at me, I gave her a gentle shake. She finally raised her gaze. Her eyes were full of tears.

“I have to go, Janet. Everything is going to be okay. I’m coming back.”

“I’m not sure what to do,” she said in a quiet, yet steady voice.

“You have to be incredibly strong to survive everything that’s happened to you over the past six years. Find that strength, Janet. You are finally in control of your destiny.”

She blinked as if she was seeing me for the first time. “Yes, I am.”

“Sadie, we have to go!” Russo called through the screen door in the other room.

I hugged Janet. It was an awkward embrace where she stood rigidly against me.

“I have to leave, but I will return,” I whispered fiercely.

I released her and jogged out of the room without looking back. When I went through the door, a hot puff of air struck my face. Russo waited on the other side.

His eyes were wide open. “How did that go?”

“I’ll tell you later.”

“Our guides are very impatient.” Russo started for the car, and I followed him.

The hot breeze suddenly picked up and a spray of gritty air caused me to turn my head and raise my hand to protect my eyes. It was a dust devil swirling past the chicken coop. The dusty wind must have frightened the rooster. He screeched and flapped his wings, going in the opposite direction.

I felt a strange tug to stop and look back at the house. The dust devil struck its back wall and collapsed.

Then the sound of a gunshot shattered the quiet countryside.

11

I ran back to the house as fast as I could. I heard Russo’s shoes pounding over the wooden floorboards right behind me, and when I flung open the screen door, he caught it before it slammed shut.

Racing through the house, the small rooms became hazy, almost dreamlike as time seemed to slow. I noticed little things that I hadn’t before. Like the cuckoo clock on the wall that was now making the distinctive “cuckoo” bird sound when it struck noon. There was a wall of floral prints, and a colorful quilt thrown over the back of a plush-looking sofa. Janet’s little Mexican house wasn’t fancy, but it was comfortable and safe—until I’d arrived.

When I reached the kitchen, I stopped in my tracks. Lying on the floor was Janet. A large gunshot hole in her forehead was visible.

Russo slid past me and knelt beside her still form to check for a pulse.

“She’s gone, Russo,” I said.

He didn’t stop what he was doing. Holding his fingertips on the side of her windpipe, just below the angle of her jaw where the carotid artery was.

I took small breaths while I scanned her body. Next to her unfurled right hand was a pistol. She had been facing the window when she’d shot herself, falling backwards into the center of the floor. A lot of blood pooled beneath her head.

“She’s dead.” Russo leaned closer to the handgun without touching it. “A 10mm pistol.” He jumped to his feet and pressed his hands into the side of his head. “What the hell did you say to her, Sadie?”

I thought back to our conversation, remembering the queasy discomfort I’d experienced. I sensed that she was unraveling. Back home, she would have been taken to a hospital for an evaluation, where professionals would have provided Janet with the counseling and medications she needed to deal with her sickening circumstances.

Regardless of how it should have gone, I’d obviously handled Janet all wrong.

“I shouldn’t have left her alone,” I said quietly.

“Nonsense!” The booming voice turned our heads. It was Luis standing in the doorway with his hands on his hips. “That one was loco. It was just a matter of time before she cracked.”

He spoke in a matter-of-fact way that made me grimace. “You should have explained—”

“Why? You wouldn’t have listened to me. You had to speak to her and wouldn’t have left me alone until you did.” He shrugged, glancing down at Janet’s body. “Perhaps, I thought that whatever you were going to say to her would end her torment. I don’t know.”

I narrowed my gaze at Luis. “Janet was tormented by what Nash Byrne and the Flores brothers did to her. They stole her life from her.”

“I don’t know this Nash person you speak of.” He flicked his hand at Janet. “What’s done is done. We must go. Time is wasting.”

My head hurt from the entire scene. This poor young woman had chosen to take her own life rather than be saved. Sadly, I understood why.

“Are we going to get into trouble?” Russo asked.

Leave it to my coroner to worry more about the consequences to himself of Janet’s self-inflicted death than the tragedy of it all.

“No, no. Pedro knew this day would eventually come.”

My face heated. “Then why didn’t he let her go home a long time ago or at the very least, get her help?”

“As a favor to Pedro, Mateo let him have the American woman. Pedro offered her freedom years ago, but she wouldn’t take it.” He made a circular motion with his finger at his temper. “She had troubles from the first day. Look at her wrists.” Luis lifted his chin at Russo.

Russo bent over Janet and gently lifted her hand. Ugly red scars stretched across her wrist. Old wounds.

“Janet tried to end her life twice before this. Pedro was more patient than most.” Luis shook his head. “He’ll be sad but not surprised. Now, vamos!”

“We can’t leave her body—”

“I will let Pedro know. He will bury her.”

I raised my hands. “Janet can’t be buried here. She must be returned to the states where she can be laid to rest properly with the Amish.”

Luis vigorously shook his head. “Too many questions, too much work. Mateo, Gael, and the other Flores brothers will never agree to it.”

“Yet they were going to let Janet go free?” I argued.

“Not the Flores brothers. Pedro was going to make it happen. How, I don’t know, and it doesn’t matter. She didn’t want to return to her home and now, she’s dead.”

“He has a point,” Russo said.

My shoulders slumped when every bit of energy I had left evaporated from my body. I toyed with asking if I could use my cell phone to take a photo of Janet but decided against it. Serenity would just have to take my word for it.

I rubbed my face, and Russo touched my arm softly.

“Pedro clearly cared for her, Sadie. He took care of her for years after he broke her out of a very bad situation. I’m sure he’ll be respectful with her body.”

I heard the coaxing in Russo’s voice. He wanted to be on his way. Janet was a stranger to him, someone unimportant, whose story didn’t interest him in the least.

I wasn’t mad at Russo for feeling that way, just depressed. We dealt with a lot of death and unfortunately, we’d lost some of our humanity by building walls to protect our own hearts and souls from the horrible things we saw.

Letting out a ragged breath, I knelt beside Janet and touched her soft, strawberry blonde hair. “I’m so sorry that all of this happened to you, Janet. I’ll pray for you.”

I walked past Luis, holding my breath until I stepped outside. The sun was still blinding, birds were chirping in the lone tree, and the dusty breeze blew in my face.

It was like nothing had changed. Would Pedro weep for Janet? What would her family do when they found out? I knew Serenity would take it in stride while feeling frustrated beneath her icy demeanor.

As I walked across the yard, I really hoped that Janet had finally found peace. But I knew that the image of the pretty young woman lying in a pool of blood on the kitchen floor would probably stay with me forever. The only way that I’d ever get any closure is by doing everything in my power to end the Flores brothers’ sex trafficking operation.

Making me feel like throwing up was the fact that I had to work with the bastards for Russo’s sake.

12

Russo and I sat with our sides touching and not speaking for the rest of the trip. My head was full of dark thoughts and Russo seemed to realize that I needed uninterrupted time with them.

Alejandro and Luis were also silent and when they began talking rapidly to each other in Spanish, I raised my gaze and looked out the window. Blinking, I wondered how far we’d traveled while I’d been in la-la land. The landscape was greener. Trees lined the tidy street we turned on. Here, houses were a little bigger and sturdier looking than in the other towns we’d passed through. Shops, restaurants, and a steady stream of traffic in both directions were a bit jarring from the lonely, dry terrain where tumbleweeds were the only things we saw rolling by.

“Is this Primavera Plateada?” I asked, leaning in between the front seats.

“Yes,” Alejandro said. He pulled into a motel’s parking lot. “You wait here while we get Angel’s body. We got you a room. It’s number twelve. The key is at the front desk.”

He said it like he was fetching something at the grocery store instead of exhuming a body.

I glanced at Russo, who shrugged.

“It’ll be nice to shower.”

I know my face scrunched. “You’re kidding, right?”

“Nope.” Russo got out of the car, then he leaned into the front passenger window while I exited the SUV. “What time do you expect to be back?”

“After dark. We aren’t going to dig up Angel in broad daylight. That would be dumb.” He flicked his finger across the street. “Mi Camino is a nice restaurant if you’re hungry. I recommend their tamales. They’re very good.”

Russo backed away from the car and Luis leaned out the window. “Don’t leave this area, though. Comprende?”

“I’m not really in the mood for sightseeing,” Russo joked.

Luis couldn’t have heard Russo’s comment because the SUV left the parking lot at high speed, turning onto the street and quickly disappearing around the bend.

“This is a nightmare,” I said.

I couldn’t understand how Russo could be smirking, but he was.

“It could be worse. Look at the bright side, we’re still alive.”

“That’s an awfully low standard.” Shaking my head, I started towards the corner of the brick building where the office sign hung.

The motel was one story and although the architecture seemed outdated, it was also well-kept. Trimmed bushes lined the parking lot that currently only had a couple of cars parked in it. If this was like most motels, business would pick up in the evening.

“I’ll grab the key,” Russo said, sprinting past me.

I let him take the lead and leaned back against the wall, studying the street. On one side of the restaurant was a greenhouse and vegetable stand and the other appeared to be a doctor’s office judging from the medical symbol on the sign.

I was too deflated to dwell on the fact that I was in a foreign country where English wasn’t the spoken language or that I was further from home than I’d ever been before. Hill country, Helena House, and my daughter were more than fifteen hundred miles away. I sighed when I thought of Chloe. I’d tried to keep her out of my mind while still regularly checking my cell phone for messages from her or Tanya or Buddy. Chloe hadn’t sent anything, but Tanya confirmed several hours ago that everything was “fine as frog hair split three ways” which was her way of letting me know that I didn’t have a thing to worry about. Buddy mentioned a domestic dispute between a couple I knew on the south side of town. He said he had to referee. With no further details, I figured it was the usual argument that blew up for no good reason at all and everyone felt sheepish about it the next day.

Russo came through the doorway and started walking along the side of the building. “That was a piece of cake.”

I fell in step with him. “It really doesn’t bother you that you’re in Mexico, waiting to do an autopsy on a body that’s being ripped from the earth by criminals?”

He stopped at room number twelve and inserted the key. “I used to do stuff like this all the time before moving to Possum Gap.”

I froze, glaring at Russo. When he turned the knob and opened the door, a puff of stall air exited the room.

He turned around and when he saw I wasn’t going in, he came back to the door. “Oh, come on. It’s not that bad. Actually, it’s fairly clean.”

I crossed my arms. “I don’t care as long as there aren’t any bedbugs.”

“Then what’s the problem?”

Russo smirked again and it made my blood boil. I noticed a housekeeper who was a few rooms down stop what she was doing and look up from her cart to stare at us. Having this conversation outside was silly, so I pushed by Russo and walked straight into the side of the king-sized bed. I started at the corners, pulling up the covers to check the mattress creases.

“I can see you take searching for bed bugs very seriously,” Russo said, turning the knob on the air conditioner.

The fan came on and even from where I bent over the mattress, I felt the blast of cold air into the room. He proceeded to pull out one of the two chairs on either side of a round table next to the drawn curtains and sat down.

“They don’t expect us to spend the night here, do they?” I asked, not taking my eyes off the mattress as I moved along it.

“I suppose that we might come back here at some point. No one gave me an itinerary.”

“There’s only one bed.” I stopped what I was doing and glanced at Russo. He was still smirking. “Why didn’t they reserve two rooms for us? The cartel can surely afford it.”

“They believe we’re a couple, Sadie.”

The mattress was clear, thank goodness. I walked to the bathroom, turned on the light and checked it out from the doorway. It appeared reasonably clean and there was a stack of white towels on the shelf next to the combo tub/shower.

I went in, closed the door, used the toilet, washed my hands, splashed water on my face, and stared at my reflection for a few long seconds. Somehow, in less than a day, my cheeks and nose were slightly sunburned. A few random freckles popped out where they only came out during the summer months. I sighed and went back to the main room and sat on the edge of the bed, across from Russo.

“Why would they think we’re a couple?” I asked calmly, knowing that I had to keep my wits about me.

“Isn’t it obvious?”

“No. Please explain.”

“It’s because you came with me, Sadie. To these people, it means you and I are romantically linked.” He grinned. “I mean, seriously, who follows a friend into danger unless there’s something more.”

“When Luis and Alejandro come back, you are going to tell them that we are business partners, professional counterparts, and sort of friends—”

“Sort of?”

“Yes, I’m not happy with you right now, but I still need my coroner back in Possum Gap. Hopefully, we can wrap up the autopsy and whatever investigating we can do in twenty-four hours and be on our way home without incident.”

“There’s a good chance it will be uneventful. The last thing the Flores brothers want to do is ruin a perfectly profitable association with my family by killing me. You’re included in that because everyone thinks we’re together, so it’s in your best interest not to tell our guides that we’re not an item.”

I’m sure my cheeks reddened worse than the sunburn and the breath caught in my throat. I didn’t understand why Russo was acting so…childish. It was almost as if he suddenly enjoyed this insane and dangerous trip.

“I’m not sharing a bed with you,” I said.

“You can sleep under the covers, and I’ll sleep on top.”

My mouth dropped open. “You won’t just give me the bed?”

Russo chuckled. “Why would I do that?” He pointed at the carpet. “Sure, it’s not gross, but it’s not soft enough to sleep on.” He lost the grin. “Besides, if there’s nothing going on here, why can’t we rest on the same surface?”

“It’s not proper, that’s why?” I tried not to raise my voice but failed.

“I’m sorry. I have the utmost respect for you. After all, you’re a sheriff and a co-owner of what will someday become a lucrative money-making venture, but you’re also a mother.”

“Exactly!”

“No, you missed my point all together.” He winced, dropping his chin. “I mean that you’re not a young virgin who can’t control her impulses.”

My chest became tight and my skin cooled. I wasn’t sure how to take that. Still reeling from Janet’s suicide, I couldn’t understand how he could even be flirting with me after that.

I put on a serious frown. “Don’t worry, Russo. You’re right. You’ll have no funny business with me.”

“That’s too bad.”

I stood up. “Stop it!” Tears welled in the corners of my eyes, and I quickly wiped them away. “A lot is going on here, you know.”

Russo suddenly came out of his chair. His arms wrapped around me, and he hugged tightly. I stood rigidly in his embrace, but I didn’t try to stop him.

“I’m sorry, Sadie. Here I am acting like an ass while you’re being yourself, concerned more with a woman you never met before today and a mission that’s risky at best.”

He didn’t let go and I started to relax. Speaking into his shirt that smelled like the familiar scent of his expensive cologne, I muttered, “It’s been a rotten day. I thought I was saving Janet, and all I did was end her life quicker.”

Russo pulled back a little. He used his fingertips to blot the corners of my eyes. “I was just kidding when I asked what you said to her, you know that, right?”

I nodded and pulled out of his arms. Sitting down on the bed, Russo joined me. He clasped his hands between his legs and kept his side from brushing mine. We both looked straight ahead at the light green wall with a framed painting of an ocean scene. Seagulls flapped over the waves and thin blades of grass rose from sand dunes.

After taking a deep breath, I quietly said, “I feel like I let Serenity down.”

“That’s stupid. She’ll understand better than you ever will what happened back there.”

I turned to Russo. His profile was sharply defined and some of his dark hair fell over one eye.

“What do you mean?”

Russo smiled a little. “You’re a big softie, Sadie.” He sat up straighter and faced me. “Don’t get me wrong. You’re brave and witty, and fully capable of solving the worst of crimes, but there’s still an innocence about you.”

“I am not innocent,” I said harshly. “I’ve seen some crazy crap in the hollow and I’ve killed people.” I shook my head. “How can you call me innocent?”

“It wasn’t meant to be negative. More endearing. I simply meant that your Indiana counterpart has basically lost hope in humanity. She expects the worst in people. In her world, most stories end badly.”

His gaze drifted over my face, and I was surprised by the rush of butterflies that took flight in my stomach.

His smile deepened. “You’re still hopeful. That’s why the Amish woman’s death is so difficult for you to accept. You actually thought she’d have her happily ever after.”

My breathing became easier. Russo was right. “Is hope a bad thing?”

“Of course not.”

“You’re a hopeful person.” I said it with confidence.

He nodded. “I am more optimistic than pessimistic. There’s a certain power in being a coroner. Figuring out how and why someone died, solving crimes, and understanding mysteries is uplifting for me, even when the details are unpleasant.”

“I see that in you,” I commented, staring back at the ocean scene. “I consider you down to earth…and a good man, though you’re surrounded by corruption because of your family.”

“Is it something you can ever get past?” Russo nearly whispered the question.

I answered him honestly. “I don’t know.”

“Yet you forgive John Dover for his family? Why not me?” Russo’s voice rose.

“I haven’t forgiven him, and we aren’t involved if that’s what you’re insinuating.”

“Chloe mentioned that you were making plans to go on a date with him,” Russo said.

Sighing, I felt the urge to strangle my daughter. “Just like with you, I’ve considered a date with John, but I canceled.” I turned back to Russo, who watched me closely. “Why would she tell you that anyway?”

“Because she wants me to fight for your affections.”

“She said that?”

“In so many words. And don’t get me wrong, your daughter is fond of John as well. I’m sure she’ll be fine with whoever you choose to date.” The flirty pep he’d exhibited a moment ago was replaced with downcast eyes and a melancholy tone.

I felt sorry for Russo. He didn’t choose his crazy family. My reservations about him were mainly because he was a Yankee city-dweller and I didn’t think his infatuation with me would last long. Plus, Chloe had already become attached to him during the time he lived with us after the apartment building where he lived burned down. Choe’s dad hurt her when he decided having fun was more important than being there for his daughter. I’d hate to see her go through the same thing with a boyfriend of mine that didn’t stick around.

Ted and I had been divorced since Chloe was a little girl and in all that time, I’d never dated anyone. I wasn’t interested in romance, just raising Chloe and building a career. Now, out of the blue, I suddenly had two prospects. And they couldn’t be more different. What a quandary.

It had been a ghastly day. Janet shot herself in the head after talking to me and it didn’t really matter if she was suicidal in the past. Today, I was the trigger. No matter what Russo or Luis said, I would always shoulder some of the blame for her tragic ending. But the practical side of my brain rationalized that there wasn’t anything I could do for her anymore. I needed to focus on getting out of Mexico alive with Russo. I was also sitting alone in a motel room with him, and it didn’t feel weird at all, which was alarming in and of itself.

I shifted my gaze back to Russo. He stared at the floor, fidgeting with his fingers. Russo was usually halfway between uptight and laidback. He was optimistic, curious, and overly confident. I’d witnessed his courage, although he was much more likely to save someone he knew and liked than a stranger. That might be the biggest difference from John. While both men were loyal to family and friends, John would risk his own life to save a stranger. Russo would not.

My cell phone buzzed in the tote which I’d set on the chest of drawers. Stretching from the bed, I hooked one of the straps with my finger and pulled the tote over.

When I checked the phone, I saw a message from my ex-husband of all people. Ted’s text messages were always brisk and to the point, so I wasn’t surprised to see only a few clipped sentences.

“I need to speak to you about something important. Professional, not personal. Call me as soon as possible.”

I rolled my eyes. Because Ted was the county attorney, I came in contact with him more often than I preferred. It was hard enough trying to co-parent with a man who had been absent for much of Chloe’s childhood. Having to deal with the smug man on legal matters drove me nuts. If it was an emergency, he would have said so. It would have to wait until I returned to Possum Gap. Geesh, I’d only been gone for a couple of days and Buddy was in charge. This might not be a vacation, but I deserved to disappear for a few days without worrying about the town’s business. Everyone, including me, sometimes needed time away. Up until the moment when Janet Yoder shot herself, I’d been kind of having fun.

I blew out a soft breath. Chloe is almost a grown up, Sadie. Pull yourself together and stop being so serious all the time.

I don’t know why, but I suddenly got a wild hair to speak bluntly. “Why are you even flirting with me? It makes no sense at all.”

Russo’s brow furrowed when he raised his gaze. The corner of his mouth trembled. “Sadie, aren’t you aware that you’re a very attractive woman?”

His soft voice sent a chill up my spine. I didn’t want him to know how he affected me, so I shook the feeling away in my head, rather than physically.

“Oh, please. You can have any single lady in Possum Gap, and if you ever moved back to the east coast, I’m sure there’s a waiting line of prospects.” I sighed, lightly biting my lower lip. “It’s not like you’re going to stay put in a Kentucky hill town.”

“Do you want me leave?”

“No, of course not. You’re the best coroner my town has ever had.”

“Is that the only reason you want me around—because I’m good at my job?”

I swallowed hard, wishing I’d just kept my mouth closed. “I like you, Russo, but not in the way—”

“You definitely do like me that way.”

I swiveled to look him in the eye and instantly regretted it. Russo had his swagger back. “But I—”

“What I feel, you feel. There’s chemistry between us. It’s been there since day one.”

“We can’t—”

Russo leaned in close enough that his breath fanned my face. “Yes, we can.”

“It’s a terrible idea in too many ways to count.”

“Dating or kissing?”

Russo didn’t retreat. His face continued to hover close to mine. A rush of curiosity surged through my veins. I wanted to experience kissing Russo. I really, really did.

“Hmm?” I was tongue-tied.

“Can we please finish the kiss we started in Central Park before you had to run off and save the prostitute who was robbing her John.”

The way he said it made me smile. It was funny how something or someone always interrupted us whenever I began to lose control. Perhaps it’s a sign.

“You’re very polite, you know that?”

“Thank my mother for that. She taught me at a young age to always ask permission for a first kiss.”

“And since we haven’t really had an entire first kiss, do you reckon we’re still in the asking phase?” I kind of enjoyed the back and forth with Russo. It was like having an itch that really needed to be scratched and the longer we waited the more satisfying I knew the scratching would be.

“Yeah, I reckon so.” Russo smirked after faking a God awful southern Appalachian accent.

“I’m going to have to kiss you just to shut you up, aren’t I?”

Russo reached over and took my hand into his. “That might be the only way to get me to stop talking.”

Surely, we wouldn’t have ended up in this predicament if we weren’t supposed to kiss. It was just a kiss. Not sex. Not marriage. Not growing old together. Just a stupid kiss.

I decided to get it over with, hoping that it wasn’t even a good kiss.

Getting tired of the coy back and forth, I drifted closer and when I tilted my head, I saw that Russo’s eyes had darkened, fluttering closed before his lips found mine.

It was a tender, slow kiss at first, like Russo wanted to savor the moment. His fingers combed back my hair while his other hand touched my back, pressing me into his chest. Finally having his lips on mine in a complete kiss was a huge relief, and at the same time my heart skipped a beat when a fire sparked in my belly.

Shoot, Sadie, you better stop before you can’t stop. But I didn’t want to. Thoughts of Russo’s mafia family, a Mexican cartel, poor Janet, Angel, Possum Gap, and even my daughter dwindled until they vanished all together. At that instant, the only thing on my mind was Russo’s mouth and hands, and the wonderful heaviness of his weight on me when we fell back onto the bed.

When he nuzzled my neck, I sighed. It felt good. Too darn good.

He abruptly stopped, lifting up just enough to gaze down at me. His eyes were full of emotions that I doubted he’d ever say out loud. But I didn’t need any words. I saw tremendous feelings in those dark depths. We’d waited a long time for this and now that it was happening, I let go of all the worries and what ifs. For once, I was going to go with the flow and let my body, instead of my head, guide me.

Russo’s warm and minty breath was in my ear, then his mouth traced a path over my cheek and along my jaw. I finally relaxed and let the sweet sensations take hold.

“Sadie, I think I—”

“Shh.” I cupped his face, muttering into his mouth, “Don’t ruin it with talking.”

Russo didn’t argue. His mouth found mine again and this time, our kiss became urgent.

A distant sound made me stop kissing him back. I squeezed his arm. “Did you hear that?”

Still lying on top of me, he paused, tilting his head.

This time, the knocking on the door was obvious and quickly became banging.

“Maybe Luis and Alejandro returned,” I breathed.

“It’s still daylight.”

He rolled off of me in a swift movement that I greatly appreciated. With my heart still beating erratically and my limbs tingly from all the making out, I scooted over and grabbed my gun from the tote. Jumping to my feet, I was glad we were still dressed. Like a pro, Russo approached the door, then looked back to find me with my handgun ready.

I moved to the window and pulled the curtain slightly back. Craning my neck, I couldn’t see anyone.

“What do you see through the peep hole?” I asked.

“A woman.”

I thought quickly and then nodded. Russo unlocked the door, and the banging stopped.

Positioning myself in a spot where I could easily fire at whoever came through the door, I inhaled deeply and thanked the Lord for the adrenaline that flooded my veins.

Russo cracked the door. “What do you want?”

“I need to talk to you and your girlfriend. It’s about Angel Moguel.”

I held my breath when Russo glanced over. “Ask who she is.”

Russo looked out the door. “What’s your name?”

“Elena Moguel. I’m Angel’s wife.”

13

When Russo opened the door a little wider, Elena pushed past him. He quickly shut the door behind her and she turned around to find my gun aimed at her.

She held up her hands. “No, no, no. Don’t shoot me. I came to talk. Only talk.”

Elena’s spoke English very well, although very fast. She was petite, with black shoulder length straight hair and wide-spaced, dark brown eyes. Her lips were pouty and her cheekbones high. Faded, purplish-yellow bruising marred her pretty face.

She caught me staring at the bruises and quickly touched the places around her left eye and then both cheeks. “Will you talk to me? I am no threat. I swear.”

I glanced at Russo, and when he shrugged, my gaze swept over Elena again. In tight black denim jeans and a fitted pink t-shirt, she couldn’t hide a gun, so I lowered mine, but didn’t put it away. I wasn’t expecting the person accused by the Flores brothers of murdering Angel to come to us. This was definitely a surprise.

“What happened to your face?” I asked.

Elena touched her cheek again. She glanced at Russo, then me. “Angel done it.”

Russo reached for the light switch, turning on the bright one in the center of the ceiling. He stepped closer to Elena and cocked his head. “The faded color of the bruising and the fact that the swelling has gone down indicates this happened a few weeks ago.”

“Seventeen days,” she corrected him.

I took a quick breath, feeling like we were about to receive unsettling news. “That would be a couple of days before Angel died?”

“Correct.” Elena crossed her arms and nodded her head. She was a twittery young woman, glancing everywhere and constantly moving her mouth.

I sighed. “Why did you come here, Elena?”

“I know what Luis and Alejandro are doing.” Her eyes flared and she started speaking louder. “Everyone in this town knows and they are wrong.”

I leaned back against the wall while Russo remained a statue next to Elena. “What are they wrong about? And why do you think we’re with them?”

The last question was kind of redundant. In a small town, news traveled fast. A couple of Americans checking into a motel after being dropped off by the two men could have been seen by anyone. I was guessing it was the housemaid, but I’d probably never know for sure.

“My sister spotted them driving around the cemetery where Angel is buried, and—” She snapped her mouth shut. “It is not important. What matters is that you understand what happened.”

I sat on the edge of the bed and finally returned my handgun to the tote. “I’m sorry, but I’m confused. The two men you speak of offered us a ride when our car broke down. I lifted my chin at Russo. “Jim and I are vacationing, and our Google map wasn’t working, then we had car troubles.”

Russo’s brows rose as he pursed his lips. He looked impressed. I came up with the story on the fly, feeling that we should keep our identities hidden from Elena. Especially since she was our main suspect.

Elena’s eyes widened right before they narrowed on me. “You are lying.”

Russo cupped his chin. His brow knitted and he had the hazy eyes of someone deep in thought. I turned back to Elena.

“You barge into our motel room and then call us liars? Really?” I worked to keep my tone steady.

“Cut the bullshit. I might not know your name, but I have no doubt Angel’s employers’, the Flores brothers, sent you.”

The woman was brave, and I liked her getting straight to the point. “Let’s say you’re correct, which I’m not saying you are. What’s the point of coming to us?”

Elena pointed at her face. “This is why.”

I inhaled deeply. “Did you two have an argument?”

“I took one of my co-worker’s shifts at the hospital because she had a stomachache. When I went home, Angel accused me of seeing someone, which was absolutely not true. Angel had a big temper, and I always tried not to upset him. But that time, nothing I said calmed him down.”

My gaze drifted over the faded bruises. “Was it the first time he hurt you?”

She shook her head. “No, no. But he never messed up my face before. Other times, he’d punch my belly or pull my hair—things no one would notice the next day.”

Elena’s face twisted with emotion, and she sounded believable. Why would she risk talking to us if it wasn’t at least partly true? And then there were the bruises…

“So you killed him?” I asked.

She gasped, touching her neck. “No!”

Russo leaned over. “How do you think your husband died then?”

Elena opened her mouth, shut it, then pressed her lips together. “The autopsy says he died of a heart problem. It was a natural death.” She walked to the door and turned around. “I know that Luis thinks he was murdered, but he wasn’t. I just want you to know that.”

She went out the door in a flash and I followed her.

“Wait, Elena, should we talk to anyone else? Someone who might corroborate your story.”

She stopped and turned slightly without saying anything.

“You took a chance seeking us out for a reason. I assume it’s to protect yourself, but your word isn’t enough. We need more.”

Elena exhaled and licked her lips. My friend, Cari, lives in the apartment next to mine. She’s seen Angel attack me. She will talk to you, I think.”

“Where can we find her?” I asked.

“She works at the greenhouse across the street. It is owned by my parents.”

I wished I had my notebook. “What’s her last name?”

“Gonzalez.”

“And what are your parents’ names?”

“Delfina and Xavier Aguilar.” Her face scrunched. “Why do you want to know that?”

“Where I come from when a man beats his wife, her parents typically know about it.”

She gave a nod. “Do not listen to Luis. He values his friendship with my husband more than the truth.”

Elena got into a yellow Volkswagen and left the parking lot in a hurry. I turned to find Russo standing in the doorway of the motel, watching her go with a puzzled expression on his face before he focused on me.

The corner of his mouth lifted. “I don’t suppose there’s a chance in hell that we can get back to what we were doing before our prime suspect interrupted us?”

“You’re kidding.” I walked past him back into the room where I grabbed my tote.

He followed me in. “Actually, I wasn’t.”

I frowned at him. “Elena’s voluntary appearance doesn’t pique your curiosity?”

He shrugged, folding his arms over his chest. “Sadie, don’t forget we’re not here to solve the mystery of Angel’s death.”

“That’s exactly what we were asked—”

“No!” He strode across the room and stood in front of me, blocking me from the doorway. “The Flores brothers believe one of their men was murdered. We are here solely to prove that he was. Discovering the opposite might just get us killed.”

I inhaled deeply as my chest began to burn. “Weren’t you at all moved by Elena? Angel beat her, Russo.”

“That’s her story.”

“Would she come to our motel room—a couple of American strangers—if she wasn’t telling the truth?”

Russo sighed. “It’s hard to say. People lie and you’re gullible. It doesn’t matter, though. Our mission is to prove that what the Flores brothers want to believe is true.”

“That’s hogwash. You’ll get her killed by doing that.”

“Perhaps. My priority is to not get you and me killed. That’s it.” When my mouth dropped open to argue, he continued, “She obviously killed the guy, Sadie. Elena murdered her husband. She doesn’t deserve our sympathy or protection.”

“But if it was in self-defense—”

“Ha. With poison? It takes planning and foresight. Self defense wouldn’t hold up in an American court of law in this instance and certainly not here.”

I narrowed my gaze at him. “Sometimes murder is justified. At least that seems to be your mafia family’s motto.”

“Hardly. And we aren’t mafia just because we’re Italians.” He smiled smugly. “I think those hillbillies in Jewelweed Hollow have infected your brain with their vigilante style of justice, Sadie.”

I swallowed. Russo might be right. Just because someone is abusive doesn’t mean you can legally kill them. But I still couldn’t bring myself to be angry with Elena if she had taken care of her husband after he struck her face.

“What choice would she have had?”

Russo’s eyes widened. “She could have gone to the authorities—”

“Not it they’re paid off by the Flores cartel.”

“Don’t forget, there’s another cartel in the area. She might have worked something out with them.” He must have recognized the dumbfounded look on my face because he swatted the air. “I don’t know, Sadie. It’s none of our business. We don’t have jurisdiction here and don’t know any of these people. After tomorrow, we’ll never see them again.” He squeezed my shoulders lightly. “Don’t you want to go home to Chloe and Tanya, and the town you love so much?”

I nodded slowly.

“Because if we do anything except what’s expected of us, we’re dead.”

“What about Gael and Mateo’s agreement with your family?”

“All bets are off if we go rogue on this. Even my brother or Mike will not feel sympathy for us. Sure, my parents will be devastated, but ultimately, this is business.”

“I find it hard to believe your mother and father would let these people kill you.”

Russo blew out a long, tired breath. “Make no mistake, they would mourn me, but they’re practical people. That’s why they’ve done so well in their less than honorable career endeavors. It would be my own fault and rather than put their other son, daughter, or grandchildren in danger, they would give up.” He softly touched my cheek. “This entire trip is to save me, Sadie. They want me cleared with the Flores brothers so that I could go back to my life in Possum Gap.”

“What about your license? Aren’t you going to lose it?” When he glanced at the floor, avoiding my gaze, something occurred to me. “Your family plans to pay someone off—maybe a judge—so that you won’t lose it. That’s why you’re not as upset as you should be.”

Russo dragged his hand through his hair. “I have multiple certifications and six years of experience. I made a mistake, and it shouldn’t ruin my career.”

“That’s the problem, Russo. You didn’t make a mistake at all. You conducted the autopsy properly. You did your job.”

He forced a smile. “Don’t you want me to bring my skills back to Possum Gap?”

“Of course.” My mouth was dry. I hated this conversation.

“Then you must be okay with the manipulations of the process. It happens all the time.” He pulled me into a hug. “It’s going to be okay. This time tomorrow, we’ll be on our way home.”

I remained limp in his arms. Elena had thoroughly doused the flames when she’d burst in. “Where’s home for you?”

He pulled back a little. “I guess that’s up to you.”

“You just said you wanted to come back as Possum Gap’s coroner.” I rushed the words out.

“Yes, that’s the plan. Whether I remain there forever is up to several factors, you being the biggest one.”

I placed my head against his chest. “I’m not ready for commitment, so please don’t ask me to be.”

“As long as you’re open to possibilities, that’s all I need for now.”

“What about my needs?”

Russo began rubbing my back. He kissed the side of my head. “I would love to take care of your needs.”

I leaned back and looked him in the eye. “Any need?”

Russo’s eyes darkened a shade. “Anything at all.”

I lifted a brow. “Promise?”

He hesitated and his smirk dropped into a frown. “Ah, sure.”

“I want to walk over to that greenhouse and talk to Elena’s friend and parents.”

Russo dropped his head back and laughed. “Of course you do.”

14

Since we didn’t have a vehicle, it was quite convenient that Elena’s parents owned the greenhouse across the street from the motel and that her friend—a possible witness—also worked there. Russo was quiet as we crossed the street. While I searched for people to speak to, he went straight into the first greenhouse we came to. A glance inside revealed a long expanse brimming with plants and flowers. A puff of hot, humid air touched my face while I glanced around. Then I turned in the opposite direction, heading for the rustic, wooden building.

Signs for la oficina and pague aqui were displayed under the green awning. Potted hibiscus plants filled the narrow porch and when my peripheral caught something whizzing by, I stopped and followed the movement to the nearest trumpet-shaped red blooms. Inhaling the sweet floral scent, I watched a hummingbird collecting nectar. While hovering, its glimmering, green feathers caught the sun. Mesmerized by the little bird, I didn’t hear anyone approaching.

“On some days, there will be dozens of them darting through the gardens.”

I turned to find an older woman smiling at me. Her black hair was pulled back in a long braid, and while some gray hair peppered her scalp, her skin was smooth, making me wonder at her age. Bright, brown eyes looked me over.

“How did you know I speak English?” I asked.

“You just have the look of an American.” She pointed at my plain tote, then my tennis shoes, and finally my pants. “I mean no disrespect, you’re very pretty and appear comfortable in your clothing.”

I smiled back, feeling kind of silly. Comfort and the ability to easily run if needed drove my style choices. Also, unlike Tanya, who wore vibrant colors and fabrics to draw attention, I would rather not be noticed at all. This woman wore a loose-fitting orange dress with a palm leaf design on it and brown sandals. She held a metal watering can in one hand.

“You’re right. I’m vacationing with my boyfriend—”

“No fibbing.” The woman made a tsk tsk sound while continuing to smile.

It was then that I saw her resemblance to Elena. Both women had round faces, alert eyes, and petite figures.

I softly snorted. “You’re Elena’s mom and she told you we were coming, I assume?”

Her smile faded as she nodded.

My gaze drifted back to where the hummingbird had hovered, but it was gone. I remembered what Russo said, “Because if we do anything except what’s expected of us, we’re dead.”

He was right to be worried. Still, my curiosity got the better of me.

“She said she was abused by her husband. Is that true?”

“Yes, it is.” She sighed, setting down the watering can and motioning for me to follow her around the building and into a large garden where corn grew on one side of the tilled area and tomatoes on the other. “Angel tricked us all. In the beginning, he was a good man who treated our daughter well. Over time, he stopped hiding his true nature.” She stopped and lightly touched a green tomato. “That boy was touched by evil.”

In between the rows of vegetables with the late afternoon sunshine beating down on our heads, it was almost uncomfortably hot. When she mentioned the word evil, my heart started beating faster.

“Delfina, do you think Angel deserved to die?” I asked.

The woman’s eyes flared, then she pursed her lips. “It was the only way Elena could be saved.” She exhaled, shaking her head. “I fear that her salvation will still kill us all in the end.”

I stepped closer. “Do you understand why we’re here?”

“Yes, but the truth doesn’t really matter does it?”

“It matters to me.”

Delfina grabbed my hand and squeezed it tightly. She threw back her head and began speaking in a rush, “You’re a butterfly who landed in a toxic sea. The filth is weighing down your beautiful wings, making it difficult to fly. You’re trying, though, trying to break free.” She suddenly dropped her head and stared at me. “An abundance of luck flows in your veins, but I see danger surrounds you.”

I tried to jerk my hand out of hers, but she held on tightly. Her eyes were far away, as if she wasn’t really seeing me at all. “Listen to me and take this advice—you must grovel to none.”

She let go and I stumbled backwards without falling. I rubbed my cold hands together. “Why did you do that?”

The woman’s features softened, and her eyes cleared. “We have our own paths to travel. Yours is unique in many ways. Remember my words.” She pointed past me. “Cari is waiting for you under the awning.”

“But I’m not finished—”

“There’s nothing more for me to say. I know my fate, and yours too.” Delfina spun around and marched away down the vegetable row. She turned and disappeared into the corn stalks.

I shivered and not because the weather had suddenly cooled. It was the same strange sensation that had made my heart sputter on different occasions back in Possum Gap when I’d been around Bethel Beaumont and her voodoo followers. Some things weren’t explainable. You just felt them.

Shaking off the jitters, I returned to the awning. Just like Delfina said, a young woman stood there watching me approach.

“I’m Cari. Elena said you might stop by to ask me questions about Angel.”

I still felt strange from the encounter with Elena’s mother. My heart raced, and I took trembling breaths. Inhaling deeply, I struggled to regain my composure as I walked up to the woman who stood about my height. Her hair was dyed blonde, while several inches of her roots were black. With an oval face and sharp features, Cari would be considered attractive. In a green jumpsuit, her athletic form was accentuated.

“Elena said her husband abused her, and I believe it. What I’m more concerned with is what happened to Angel.” I tilted my head. “Do you know how he died?”

Cari’s eyes widened and she took a harsh breath. “Why does it matter? He nearly killed Elena the last time he put his hands on her.”

I knew what happened to Angel without being told the truth by Elena, her mother, or a friend. Glancing back into the garden, I asked, “Besides gardening, what else does Delfina Aguilar do?”

Cari smirked. “Oh, she got to you, didn’t she?”

I slowly shook my head. “Actually, I think she’s nuts.”

My comment caused Cari to frown. “She’s a gifted woman. People come from all over the region to have their fortunes read.”

“She’s a psychic?”

“More than that. She knows things.” Cari’s gaze narrowed as she crossed her arms.

I leaned in. “If she knows anything at all, she’ll immediately leave this area with her husband and daughter. It’s not safe for any of them to remain here.”

Cari’s mouth dropped open. “They can’t leave their business, and Elena has a good job at the hospital.”

I sighed. Hindsight was twenty-twenty. I wasn’t psychically gifted, but I could easily see the future for these people if they stayed.

“I’m sorry I don’t have anything cheerful to say. Even you should leave. Go far away and never come back.”

“Don’t worry, we’re protected.” Cari spun around and left me standing alone under the awning. When she entered the greenhouse, she nearly bumped into Russo, who was coming out.

Russo and I met at the edge of the street and crossed together.

“I’m afraid to ask how that went?” Russo said.

I didn’t look at him. “You’re right. They have their own paths. I just want to go home.”

Back in the motel room, I laid on the bed while Russo took a shower. The T.V. was on and the picture was fuzzy, but I didn’t care because I wasn’t paying attention to the show that was in Spanish. It was on solely for the background noise.

Russo didn’t try anything romantic when he returned. He knew better. I was in no mood for it. I kept replaying Delfina’s words in my mind and they didn’t make any sense. Especially the part when she told me to grovel to none. I didn’t mention it to Russo, chalking it up to the ravings of a troubled woman.

Still, no matter how I tried and with a lot more important things to think about, I couldn’t shake it from my mind.

15

Pulling the curtain back and peeking outside, I found that night had fallen. There were a few more cars in the parking lot, but not many. The greenhouse was dark except for a line of solar lights lining the pathway between the greenhouse and the building.

“I’m glad you caught a nap,” Russo said behind me.

He touched the back of my neck, and I flinched, stepping out of his reach. “I’m shocked that I actually fell asleep, even for a short time.”

“You’re exhausted, Sadie. I can see it in your eyes. All the traveling in the last few days has finally caught up to you.”

I ran my hands through my hair. It felt a little greasy, but I didn’t want to shower right now, knowing Alejandro and Luis could arrive at any moment. “I’m definitely off my routine.” I grunted, taking the water bottle Russo handed me. “How are you so perky?”

“Unlike you, I thrive on chaos.” He winked. “It fuels my mind and body.”

I drank some water, then screwed the cap back on. “I wish you’d slept, too. If our tour guides really dug up Angel’s body, you’ll have a long night ahead of you.”

“I’m fine.” He tilted his head. “What did those women say to you that put you so on edge?”

“You noticed, huh?”

“I’m very attuned to your moods.” He smirked a little.

“Some weird stuff.” I exhaled loudly. “I have no doubt Angel was murdered. They all think he deserved to die.”

Russo wagged his finger. “If anyone could legally decide to end a life, justice wouldn’t always be served.”

I didn’t have the chance to answer him when someone started knocking on the door.

Russo looked through the peephole. “It’s Luis.”

I grabbed my tote when Russo opened the door.

He talked while he glanced around the room. “Are you ready, amigos?”

Russo looked at me and I gave him a nod. “As ready as we’ll ever be.”

The doctor’s office was on the other side of town in the back corner of a rundown office building. Weeds sprouted through cracks in the pavement of the vacant parking lot. Alejandro drove up to the entrance, jumped out and joined Luis at the back of the SUV. Angel was wrapped in a tarp, but even with the windows down and Russo giving me vapor rub to stick up my nose, the rotting corpse smell made me want to throw up.

I jumped out of the SUV and walked away, scanning the area and gulping for fresh air. “I don’t know how you guys aren’t bothered by the smell.”

Russo motioned for me to join him while he followed the other two who carried the body into the building. “Men don’t usually have as heightened a sense of smell as women. And I’m used to it.” He held open the door for me. “I bet those two are as well.”

Yeah, this probably wasn’t the first body they dug up.

We walked down a dim hallway, lit only by a flashlight that Russo held, and Luis had given him before he got out of the SUV.

Our final destination was an examination room behind an office. I blinked when Russo flicked on a bright fluorescent light. The windowless room was maybe a fourteen-foot square. The table was stainless steel while the cabinet and countertop were wooden. A refrigerator and a typical doctor’s office waiting room chair filled the corner. After the men placed the body on the table, they spoke quietly to Russo and then left.

“Where are they going?” I asked, holding the handkerchief Russo gave me earlier to my nose.

“To grab dinner.”

Good grief. How could they eat after that? “Do you mind if I open the door?”

“Go ahead,” Russo said without looking my way. He was too busy rummaging through the drawers and cupboards, gathering everything he needed to perform the autopsy.

I opened the door, then dragged the chair into the doorway and faced it away from the tarp-wrapped body. Checking my phone, there were the usual messages from Tanya and Buddy, and even one from Billy Rankin, which included a picture of one of the thoroughly cleaned and painted clawfoot tubs in a Helena House’s future ensuite.

Distractedly, I zoomed in on the photograph, then glanced back into the examination room when I heard the crinkling of the tarp. Russo had put on a medical coat, gloves, and plastic glasses. He also had covered his head with plastic that resembled a shower cap.

I noticed Angel’s thick, black hair first, then his gray skin. For all the smell, he didn’t look as decomposed as I thought he’d be. There were reddish-blue discolored spots all over his body and streaks of dried blood could be seen from his ear, nose and mouth.

“Shouldn’t he have on clothes?”

“I asked Alejandro and Luis to remove them before picking us up.”

I was getting used to the awful smell and the queasiness lessened somewhat. “Wasn’t he embalmed?”

Russo glanced up from the body. “No, he wasn’t. This man was stuck in the ground in a pine box as quickly as possible.”

“His own family didn’t bury him in a proper coffin?”

“It’s my understanding that they live in another part of Mexico, and Elena’s family was responsible for his burial.” Using a handsaw, Russo quickly cut open Angel’s chest.

I turned my head and wished I could block out the sound, but at least it didn’t last long.

“The other coroner didn’t do this, which means he didn’t look at the man’s stomach contents or his liver.” Russo worked and talked without looking at me. “The liver might show visible signs of poisoning by distinctive color staining.”

Glancing back, I remained seated while Russo used large shears to finish opening the chest. Usually not squirmy in the examination room of the morgue back home, I had never actually witnessed the cutting part. Trying to ignore the hacking and squishing noises Russo made, I asked, “Do you really have what you need to perform an authentic autopsy?”

“I have enough to do a quick, preliminary one, which is all the Flores brothers want.”

“I stood and spied into the office and then the hallway before returning to my seat. “Why do they even care? They’re a cartel. Don’t they simply kill people whenever they want for whatever reason?”

“You’re overly simplifying things.”

“Ah, no. Doing this seems unnecessary. Especially if you can’t do lab work.” I paused, glancing at Russo. His gloved hands were covered in gore. I quickly looked away. “You can’t do toxicology, can you?”

“No. That would take time and a laboratory analysis that can’t be performed here. But like I already said, there’s a possibility to determine poisoning with the naked eye when you know what to look for.”

“What are you looking for?” I continued to watch the hallway. The sounds Russo made were enough to tell me not to look. I was glad that other than a few crackers, I hadn’t eaten anything recently.

“Well, for one, damage to the heart. The autopsy stated Angel died of a heart attack, but as I’m looking at his heart, I don’t see anything that suggests that. It’s a healthy heart with normal valves.” He smacked his lips. “Sure, I’m rushing the process, but I don’t see any signs of clogged arteries either. There’s no plaque buildup or other indications of heart disease.”

“Why would the coroner write up a faulty report when someone like you could do what you’re doing and easily prove him wrong?” I was glad for the distraction of a bunch of scientific mumbo jumbo that I didn’t fully understand. Russo wasn’t condescending when answering my questions, either. He seemed to enjoy enlightening me.

“I can think of a dozen reasons, but my gut tells me the man was forced to do it against his better judgment.” He paused over the chest and looked up at me. “Think about it, Sadie. The Flores brothers didn’t murder Angel, someone else did. Perhaps that person scared him more.”

“I don’t think Elena is frightening at all.” I paused, switching gears. “If Gael and Mateo know Angel was murdered, why wouldn’t they take care of the situation without bringing you into it?”

“Perhaps they wanted clarification for some reason. There could be familiar ties or friendships involved. Taking care of the situations means more killing and although cartels are notorious for their murderous ways, I’d assume there are times when subtilty is required for political reasons.”

“It’s not really a mystery. Obviously, his wife poisoned him after he attacked her. Damaging her face was the last straw for her. Before, he’d kept his abuse hidden, but once he lost his inhibitions and went for her pretty face, she could no longer pretend it wasn’t happening.”

Russo nodded. “I agree with all of that, but I don’t think Elena is the one who killed this man.”

A scurrying sound drew my head back down the hallway. Alejandro remained at the doorway, while Luis came toward me. He barely met my gaze before he squeezed by me and went into the examination room.

“You must have gone through the drive through,” Russo said to Luis.

“We ate fast. What have you found out?”

“Can you come here, Sadie?” Russo stared at me. “Grab one of the masks off the counter. You too, Luis.”

If he’d asked when we were alone, I might have said no, but with Luis standing there, I wasn’t going to wimp out. Inhaling a deep breath so I could hold it in for a bit, I walked over to the body.

Everything was drier than I expected. His skin looked almost like plastic.

Once I was peering at the body, Russo removed his gloves, tossed them into the trash, put on fresh ones, and picked up a pen that was on the counter.

“Here, you can see a huge pharyngeal lump, meaning Angel’s breathing was obstructed. There’s also blistering around the mouth.”

Russo pointed and I followed his pen while taking small breaths.

“Luis, there’s no obvious damage to your brother’s heart, but there is this in his stomach.”

Luis and I leaned over the body while Russo took forceps and plucked a small chunk out of Angel’s stomach. He went to the sink and ran water over it and then returned, holding it up in front of us.

“What is it?” I asked.

I glanced at Luis, and he shrugged.

Russo beamed at me, while he stood over Angel’s sawed open chest and the long incision across his neck. I didn’t feel bad about Angel. He beat up his wife and it seemed like karma had caught up with him. But Russo’s excitement was unsettling.

“Sadie, tell me what this looks like to you,” Russo urged. “Think about it.”

A memory of my granny flashed in my mind. She was making a pie—

“A piece of an apple?” I said it tentatively, not wanting to sound dumb if I was way off on my guess.

“Exactly!” Russo beamed at me.

“I don’t understand.” I glanced at Luis. His face was scrunched. He didn’t get it either. “Apples aren’t poisonous.”

“Not ordinary apples, but manchineel fruit, which are like little apples, are very poisonous.”

“I’ve never heard of them,” I said.

“Of course not. It’s native to tropical regions from Florida through northern South America.”

“How do you know about this deadly fruit?” Luis asked.

“Forensic botany always fascinated me.” He grinned. “You’d be surprised how many poisonous plants grow in your backyard.”

“Getting back to this manch…” I paused trying to remember how Russo pronounced it.

“Manchineel fruit. I’m not sure if there are any proven fatalities, but it’s theorized that people do die accidently from eating the fruit without proper investigation into the cause of death. Especially youngsters, who might mistake it for a small, sweet-tasting apple.” Russo pointed to Angel’s neck. “Edema of the neck is typical to ingestion, along with blistering of the mouth and esophagus. Angel likely suffocated, then went into shock, or vice-versa.”

“Where would Elena even find the fruit? I don’t imagine it’s for sale in grocery stores.” Right after the words left my mouth, I caught my breath and took a step backward.

“While you were talking to Elena’s mother and friend, I wandered the greenhouse,” Russo said in a peppy voice. “When I reached the back of it, I went through a doorway and found a much smaller greenhouse. The door was padlocked but I was able to look inside through the plastic panels and I saw several manchineel fruit trees inside.” His gaze locked with mine. “There was ripe fruit on each one.”

“Ah, so it was the witch after all,” Luis said. His cheeks reddened and his mouth twisted. “Alejandro!” Luis shouted something in Spanish while Russo and I dropped back. He began washing his hands when Alejandro came in.

Alenjandro covered his face and said something to Luis, who finished messily rewrapping Angel.

“What do you mean, witch?” I asked Luis.

“That’s what Delfina Aguilar is. Tarot cards, runes, numbers—it’s all make-believe for a woman with real powers who sold her soul to the devil long ago.” Luis motioned for Alejandro to pick up one end of Angel while he took the other.

“What are you doing with the body?” I asked, following the men into the hallway as they carried it away.

Luis answered. “After we drop you two off at the hanger, we’ll return Angel to my family.”

I swiveled to Russo, who walked closely behind me. “But you didn’t even sew him back up.”

“I assume the body will be cremated,” Russo said.

“Yes, that is correct,” Luis confirmed. “We will spread his ashes where our grandparents are buried.”

The two men huffed and grunted while carrying Angel’s remains. I tapped Luis’ shoulder, but he didn’t turn around.

“You’re taking us back to the plane?” I spoke to Luis’ back.

“We have one stop first, then you will go home.”

My heart started banging in my chest and somehow Russo knew because he took my hand, pulling me back. I stopped and looked up at him.

“Russo, we can’t let them do this—”

His face hardened. “We can and we will. How these people deal with their own messes doesn’t concern us.”

“I won’t stand by and watch them commit murder—”

Russo bit his bottom lip as he looked past me at Luis and Alejandro who had just made it to the door.

“Guys!” Russo called out and the men paused at the door. “You go on ahead and come back to pick us up when you’ve finished your business.”

Luis’ eyes shifted to me before he nodded. “Give us thirty minutes. We’ll be back.”

I pulled out of Russo’s grasp and reached into my tote. When I drew, Russo blocked my way.

“Please put that away,” he begged.

“Move, Russo. I won’t let them kill Elena and her family.”

“We don’t know anything except that Angel Moguel didn’t die of a heart attack. He was murdered.” He stepped sideways with me. “Since manchineel fruit were in kept locked in a greenhouse on the property, I’d say there’s enough circumstantial evidence pointing at the Aguilars to find them guilty of taking out their son-in-law.”

“Even if everything you say is accurate, they don’t deserve execution without a trial.” I caught a glimpse of the door shutting behind Luis. He didn’t even notice the scuffle between Russo and me.

Russo stepped aside, gesturing with his hand. “If you want Chloe to lose her mother and end up being raised by your dolt of an ex-husband, go ahead and start shooting the Flores men. You’ll be signing my death warrant, as well.” He threw up his hands. “Whatever.”

Enthusiasm for doing the right thing evaporated, leaving me suddenly drained. I leaned back against the wall, dropping my head and my hands holding the Glock.

“Why is right and wrong so murky sometimes?” I asked in a quiet, tired voice.

“Justice is an illusion.”

I met Russo’s thoughtful gaze. “I’ve put some really bad people behind bars. That kind of justice is real.”

“What I mean is that sometimes real life and the law don’t mesh.” He maneuvered himself to have his back against the wall. Our arms touched. “There were only two things that Elena and her family could have done to keep her safe. One was for Elena to run away. Change her identity and say a prayer that Angel would never find her. Or two, kill him.”

“There’s a third alternative.” I tilted my head to look at him. “She could have sought help from authorities.”

“In a place where cartels own the police and judges? The Flores brothers would have protected their own. End of story.”

My gaze focused on a crack in the paint on the opposite wall. “Then Elena Aguilar’s life was already forfeit the moment she met Angel.”

“Basically, yes.”

My cell phone buzzed, and happy to get my mind off Elena’s tragic life, I pulled it out of the tote and skimmed the message.

“I’m surprised you have service. Mine’s been sketchy at best ever since we left the airport.” Russo leaned over my shoulder. “Who is it?”

“Another message from Ted, only this time, with more information.” I didn’t look up while I typed. “His client, Meredith Blevins, fought with her husband yesterday.”

“Sounds like a typical domestic dispute. Can’t Buddy handle it?”

“Her body was discovered around six in the evening local time in the couple’s backyard.”

Russo pushed off the wall and faced me with a raised brow. “What is the suspected cause of death and where’s the husband?”

“She was shot. Jorah is missing, along with their ten-year-old son.”

16

Daylight broke as we walked into the hangar. Tony, Mike, and Jimmy were seated at the table in the center of the large open space, eating breakfast with Gael and Mateo. The rest of the men, both Mexican and American, were gathered in the corner, some sitting in lawn chairs and others standing next to a narrow folding table that held trays of food.

Tension had been replaced with friendly, even jovial energy that I rolled my eyes at. Everyone was happy now that the youngest Flores brother would be set free because Russo had changed his forensic findings, and the issue with Angel had been resolved.

My mouth was dry, and my neck hurt. I sat in the SUV, silently staring out the window the entire forty-five-minute drive. Russo was smart not to rile me by discussing anything with Luis and Alejandro that might lead the conversation back to Elena and her family.

I found myself once again going along with criminals to protect myself, my family, my town, and my interests. It left a bitter taste in my mouth. I wasn’t sure if I’d ever be absolved for inaction the night before. The only thing that kept me from breaking down was worrying about Meredith’s son, Cory Blevins. We couldn’t get home fast enough.

Tony and Jimmy jumped out of their seats when they saw Russo. Mike rose more leisurely.

“Good job, both of you!” Tony smiled broadly.

Russo walked ahead of me and when he reached his brother, he whispered into his ear. Tony looked at me, then at Mateo.

Tony strode over to Mateo and shook his hand. “It’s been a pleasure, Mat, but we’ve completed our part of the bargain, and we’ll be off now.”

“Yes, very good,” Mateo said. “My man in New York will be in touch next week.” He turned to Gael who continued eating. “Do you have anything to say, brother?”

Gael wiped his mouth with a cloth napkin, then stood. His gaze landed on me. “I must say that I am surprised that your pretty sheriff didn’t cause any problems.”

I couldn’t keep my mouth shut. “Yeah, me too. That doesn’t mean that I’m not disgusted with the lot of you.”

Mateo barked out a laugh, while Gael simply smiled at me.

Gael looked over his shoulder and said something in Spanish to a man with glasses, who stood next to a black sedan with darkly tinted windows that was parked on the other side of the hangar. I glanced at Russo, who shrugged. He suddenly looked as worried as I felt.

When one of the passenger doors opened, I watched intently. No one else in the hangar seemed interested in what was going on near the car, except me and Russo. Even his brother, cousin, and lawyer had started towards the runway where the private jet was waiting.

I held my breath while my gaze drifted between the retreating Russo contingent and the car.

Cari stepped out of the car. Wearing a purple pants suit and black heels, she made clinking sounds on the asphalt as she approached.

She stopped between Gael and Mateo, grinning at me.

“Let me introduce you to the new owner of the Primavera Plateada Greenhouse.” Gael looked directly at me. “You see, things have a way of working themselves out for the best, Sheriff.”

I took a step towards Cari, but Russo’s hand grasping my wrist stopped me.

“You sold out your friend and her family?” I asked Cari.

She shrugged. “You think you’re so smart, but you’re blind to the truth. Delfina didn’t poison Angel because he beat her daughter. She did it so Elena would be free to marry the medical examiner who had put a baby in her belly.”

Her words banged in my head. I turned to Russo, who had wide eyes and a pursed mouth.

“What about Elena’s face? She had bruising—”

“I put those there. You see, Angel and I grew up together and he was like a brother to me. The way he died, I knew it was Delfina’s wicked magic. I confronted Elena and she admitted to the affair. Both she and her mother thought what I did to her face helped their case. They threatened my life, so I lied.” She paused, catching her breath. “After you warned me to leave Primavera Plateada, I almost did, but then I saw Luis and Alejandro at the restaurant and decided to tell them what I knew instead.”

Russo chuckled. “See, Sadie, it’s all an illusion.” He squeezed my hand. “Come on, let’s get out of here.”

“Wait.” I focused on Cari who lost her smile. Standing next to the cartel leaders, I guessed her future wouldn’t be peaceful. She should have run when she had the chance. “The fruit. Did Elena or her mother force it into Angel’s mouth?”

“Delfina baked a pie. It was as simple as that.”

Holding Russo’s hand and taking long strides, I didn’t look back at the Mexicans when we left the hangar.

Going up the steps to the plane was a blur and so was takeoff. It wasn’t until we were in the air that I finally took a full breath. Then I heard Tony and Russo talking quietly in the seats across the aisle from me and the fog cleared.

“What do you mean, you’re dropping me off and Russo is returning with you to the northeast?”

Russo turned. “I thought you were sleeping—”

“I have murder on my mind, and the suspect is missing and so is a boy. I need you in Possum Gap, Russo.”

Tony answered for his brother. “I have faith you’ll figure it out on your own, Sadie. Russo still has family and career matters to focus on.”

Russo’s gaze dropped to his lap and my chest burned.

“The entire reason I came on this insane mission was to make sure you came back to Possum Gap. Now, when a new case is breaking, you’re abandoning me?”

Russo met my gaze, then quickly glanced away. “I’m not abandoning you. It’s complicated.”

Tony rose. “I’ll leave this conversation to the two of you.”

He walked to the front of the cabin and sat down next to Mike. Jimmy and the other men were spread throughout the plane, but none of them paid much attention to us.

“Sadie—”

“No.” I gave my head a hard shake. “We had an agreement. You can fly home after we find Jorah and Cory—”

“I want more than anything to return to Possum Gap with you and work on this case, but you’ll have to handle it on your own this time.” He licked his lips and looked over. “You did just fine before I showed up, and you’ll be all right now.”

I felt the blood drain from my face and my heart stuttered. “You are coming back to Possum Gap?” Before he could answer, I added, “What about Helena House, and…everything else?”

There was no fire in Russo’s drooping brown eyes. “I will return, Sadie. I just don’t know when.”

A knot formed in my throat. I stared at the back of the seat in front of me, feeling sick to my stomach. We survived Mexico. The cartel situation was behind us. I’d finally let Russo in romantically, and now this. What about us, Russo? I wanted to shout at him, but I couldn’t even open my mouth to speak.

Russo leaned over the armrest. “It’s going to work it out. I promise.”

I found my voice and tried really hard to keep it free of emotions. “Promises are something I can’t make, Russo. Possum Gap needs a coroner, and I won’t leave the position open indefinitely. You can continue as an investor in Helena House from afar, but professionally, I can only give you three weeks.”

Russo shook his head. “That might not be enough—”

“Three weeks, Russo. If you’re not back by then, you’ll be fired, and I’ll meet with town leaders to discuss hiring a replacement.” My words sounded hollow to me. I felt raw inside.

“Please, don’t be rash”—he paused—“about replacing me on the job or in your life.”

I didn’t look at him when I pulled out my phone. “I made a mistake trusting you on both matters. It won’t happen again.” I swallowed the knot down as smoothly as I could. “Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have to send Serenity a text about Janet.”

“Of course.” Russo reached over and squeezed my shoulder before he joined Tony and Mike.

The weight of his hand on my shoulder lingered. I closed my eyes and leaned back, trying to replace thoughts of Russo with anything else.

Delfina’s face appeared in my head, and I shivered, remembering my strange conversation with her.

“You’re a butterfly who landed in a toxic sea. The filth is weighing down your beautiful wings, making it difficult to fly. You’re trying, though, trying to break free.” She suddenly dropped her head and stared at me. “An abundance of luck flows in your veins, but I see danger all around you.”

I tried to jerk my hand out of hers, but she held on even tighter. Her eyes were far away, as if she wasn’t really seeing me at all. “Listen to me and take this advice—you must grovel to none.”

My eyes fluttered open. Maybe she meant that Russo and his mafia family were weighing me down? I sighed. Or she might have said a bunch of weird stuff out of pure mischief. After all, she made poisonous pies and fed one to her son-in-law like in a dark fairy tale.

Gazing out the porthole window at the sunshine slicing through puffy clouds, I tried to convince myself that it was best if Russo didn’t come back to Possum Gap. We had enough problems in our little hill town without the ones he brought with him.

17

Sunshine sprayed through the wall of windows, brightening the café in a happy morning glow. The usual long line of patrons waited at the counter, ordering their to-go espressos, coffee milkshakes, lattes, and bags of tasty pastries before heading to work, school, or whatever else they had planned for the day.

Contentment. Relief. I wouldn’t go so far as to say bliss, but I almost felt that strongly about how good it was to be sitting across from my best friend in Monica and Jasmine’s café while sipping hot chocolate and eating a giant chocolate chip cookie.

“Shew, girl, didn’t you wear sunscreen? Your cheeks are sunburnt.”

After popping the last bite of her cinnamon roll into her mouth, Tanya dabbed at the corner of her mouth with a napkin. She had straightened her shiny, bushy, black hair and then pulled it back into a ponytail with a bright yellow scarf. The purple sweater she had on complemented her dark complexion and large brown eyes. Tanya and I were the same height and while I wasn’t as curvy as she was, we could fit into the same size clothes. Growing up together, I knew she had a wild side, although these days, she was more strait-laced than she was in high school, when we used to sneak out our bedroom windows and meet up in the middle of the night in the woods behind our houses. Sometimes, it was hard to imagine that I was now Possum Gap’s sheriff, and Tanya sat on the boards of almost every important group in town while being a top-selling broker of her own real estate company. My, how things had changed.

“I forgot to pack it. Suntan lotion is a vacation item, and I guess I didn’t really think about it since this trip was certainly not for leisure. Starting out in New York City didn’t help either. I barely managed to squeeze in the basic warm and cold weather items into one backpack. The drastic weather change from New York to Mexico was quite jarring.”

Tanya pushed her coffee aside and crossed her arms over the table. “First, tell me all about Russo’s family. Are they really that rich? Were they nice to you?” Her eager expression turned into a frown. “I can’t imagine you in a big city, Sadie. Was it scary? Amazing?”

Sitting back in the booth, I offered Tanya a small smile. “Whoa, slow down. I can’t keep up with your rapid-fire questions. I’m still jetlagged.”

She rolled her eyes. “I won’t let you leave the café without filling me in on at least some of the details.”

I scrunched my mouth, turning my head slightly to watch the town’s maintenance crew putting up the Fraser Fir tree in front of the courthouse. Like every year for the past two decades, Jenny and Rick, who owned Hippie Tree-Hugger Farm, donated Possum Gap’s central holiday decoration. In a few hours, kids from the middle school and their teachers would ascend on the courthouse lawn and decorate the tree. Traditionally, the tree was lit on Thanksgiving evening and downtown came alive with festivities. Several local churches provided carolers for the event, and they worked together to set up a food tent where everything from homemade tacos and chicken and dumplings to barbeque were on the menu. The humane society had their own booth where kids and pets could have their pictures taken with Santa Claus, and a few venders sold crafts. Because of the forecast of an ice storm the day before Thanksgiving, the event had been postponed until Saturday night. It would still be cold, but temperatures would rise enough over the weekend to melt the ice on the roads. Dangerous driving conditions and damage to trees and power lines were a major concern, and I was keeping an eye on the approaching storm while also tackling a brand-new murder investigation with a missing suspect and child.

I leveled a hard look at Tanya. “There really are more important things on my mind right now.”

Tanya’s face fell. “I know, what a tragedy. Poor Meredith.” She lifted her gaze. “But everyone thinks Jorah left the area with Cory.”

I glanced around the café to make sure no one listened. Even though I was convinced no one was, I still leaned over the table and lowered my voice. “I know. Buddy filled me in early this morning, but I’m not so sure that’s the case.”

“Sadie, you’re going to sit here and finish your drink and cookie, and you might as well tell me what happened on your trip.” Tanya used her don’t-mess-with-me tone.

She had put up with my disgruntled teenager for several days, so I guessed that I owed her some information.

“Okay, okay. Russo’s family were nice, except his sister. Andrea didn’t hide the fact that she’s far from my biggest fan.”

“She doesn’t even know you!” If someone treated me poorly, Tanya always took it personally.

“Yes, well, she’s spoiled, let’s leave it at that.” I thought back to my time in New York. “Russo’s father is pretty much what I expected. Nice, but guarded. Underneath the expensive tailored suit, he’s a killer who runs a criminal organization.” I shrugged. “It was an experience, that’s for sure. I have no interest in visiting again, but Central Park was beautiful. Too bad I was dragged into what I thought was a rape, but turned out the prostitute was robbing the John. Somehow, I almost was arrested for my part in assisting the lady.”

“Oh, dear, Sadie, you didn’t.” Tanya’s eyes were wide.

I nodded. “I’m not sure what was worse, coming face to face with a cop who used to be Russo’s girlfriend or the man’s ridiculous flirting.”

“Whaaat?”

Tanya slid out of the booth, came around to my seat and motioned for me to move over. She would have sat on me if I hadn’t quickly made room.

“It’s not a big deal,” I said in a bored voice.

Tanya cocked her head and pressed her lips together in a tighter frown. “Girl, you wouldn’t have mentioned it at all if it wasn’t.”

I snorted softly. “I shouldn’t have said anything until we were alone, and alcohol was handy.”

She leaned in very close. “Did you two—” she grimaced, then grinned. “Do it?”

“No, but I guess we kind of came close.”

“Oh, my Lord!” Her whisper came out with a hissing sound. “How close?”

I glanced around, then dipped my head, lowering my voice even more. “We kissed. Only for a minute or two. That was before the woman whose mother poisoned one of the cartel’s men interrupted us.” Tanya’s eyes bulged, and to make it sound even more dramatic, I quietly added, “We were in a motel room, by the way.”

Tanya drew back. “Good Lord, Sadie. Maybe we should wait until our margarita night to finish this discussion.” She blew out a sharp breath. “I have too many awkward questions for a café booth.”

“Exactly.”

“Where is Russo anyway? He usually joins us for breakfast. Tanya glanced at the entrance. “Billy wants to talk to him about Helena House’s heating and cooling budget.”

“We’re going to have to make those decisions on our own.” It was an effort to keep my voice bland.

Tanya sat up straighter and her eyes grew larger if that were possible. “Oh, no. Sadie Mills, you did not run that man off, did you?”

“I don’t think it’s me. He has matters to attend to back home that relate to his career, and I’m afraid, also his family’s illicit business.”

“He’s coming back, though, right?”

I sighed, then took a sip from my mug. The discussion had ruined the creamy, chocolate flavor. “If he does, I don’t know when. He left it open-ended. Although, he told me not to be rash in replacing him.” I didn’t feel inclined to mention the part about possibly cutting him from my life.

Tanya threw up her hands. “This is awful!” She narrowed her gaze. “Call him up, go back to the northeast, give him a raise, whatever you have to do, bring that man back here.”

I tried to smile but failed miserably. “It’s out of my hands.”

“What about Helena House?”

“Russo gave me the impression that the partnership will continue regardless of where he lives.”

Tanya stared me down, and I didn’t look away.

“Shew, only two days until Thanksgiving and we lose one of our high school classmates to murder and our too-good-to-be-true coroner to circumstance.” She shook her head. “Dang, Sadie, it’s a holiday to be grateful, not sad.”

“Yeah, well, if Russo returns, it will be on his own accord. And I can’t bring back Meredith, but hopefully, I can find Cory safe and sound. I know Meredith’s folks are frantic.”

Tanya nodded slowly. “Who’s going to fill Russo’s very large shoes while he’s getting his act together?”

“Sheriff Adam Crawford from over in Wilkins County has offered to loan us the services of his coroner as needed. It will be inconvenient, but I think doable for a limited time at least.”

Tanya’s cell phone buzzed, and she picked it up from the tabletop. “Geesh, it’s not a good day for catching me up on things. I have three property showings and I’m late for the first one. She slid out of the booth, grabbed her tan woolen coat off the hook at the edge of the highbacked booth, and flashed me a smile that looked rather forced.

“We’re moving our margarita night up to tonight.” She raised her hand when I opened my mouth to protest. “It’s not negotiable. I don’t care if we have to wait until midnight, I’m stopping by later.”

Tanya knew full well that I might be tied up God-knows-where searching for Cory, but I wouldn’t burst her optimistic bubble. “Alrighty. What about Chloe? Does she have any activities this evening I need to plan for?” I hated that I hadn’t even seen my kid since I’d arrived in the middle of the night.

Tanya blinked. “Didn’t you get my message about her field trip to that museum in Cincinnati?”

It felt like my heart pulsed behind my eyes. “No, my service in Mexico was touch and go.”

She swiped her hand in the air. “No worries. I took care of everything.”

“Who’s chaperoning?”

“I met with Logan Douglas, the intermediate school principal. Well, you know how he and Darcy are dating?”

I nodded, wondering where she was going with this.

“He pulled some strings at the high school and got Darcy signed on last minute as one of the chaperones.” When my sickly expression didn’t change, she quickly added, “Buddy’s wife also went along on the trip. So Chloe has two pairs of eyes on her and it was only for one night. They return later today.”

It would take Darcy and Teresa combined as chaperones to ease some of my worries. “Did Crow Dover go on this trip?”

Tanya grinned. “Nope. I was there and he didn’t get on the bus with the other students. It’s an honors’ trip, and he might not have qualified or couldn’t afford it.” She snorted. “Each student had to pay two hundred and forty dollars upfront. I covered it for Chloe.”

I let out a sigh of relief. “I’ll pay you back at Thanksgiving dinner. Crow’s a good kid, but I’d rather Chloe focus on learning rather than a boyfriend.”

The corners of Tanya’s mouth scrunched. “Amen, sister.” She took a step, then stopped. “Aren’t you coming? I thought you’d be anxious to meet up with Buddy and dig into the Blevins’ case.”

“Oh, I am, but I have another appointment first and we’re meeting here,”—I glanced at my watch—“in a few minutes.”

Tanya raised her hand. “See you this evening!”

I waved but didn’t say anything.

Glad to be alone, I worked on eating my cookie. It was probably a good thing that I wouldn’t see Chloe until late evening. I had a lot to catch up on and I’d hate to say hi and immediately run off, investigating Meredith’s murder.

I pictured the friendly woman who became a physical therapist after graduating. She attended the University of Kentucky and that’s where she met Jorah Blevins. They fell in love, got married, and after a few years, decided to move to Possum Gap to be closer to her parents when she found out she was pregnant. Meredith and I weren’t close. Tanya knew her better than me, but we were acquainted well enough that I knew she lived in a two-story brick home on Honeysuckle Way in Greenacres Subdivision, where she’d been shot to death in the back yard by her husband, Jorah, as seen on the neighbor’s security camera.

I tried to focus on Meredith, Jorah, and Cory, but Janet Yoder, Elsa Moguel, and her mother, Delfina kept invading my thoughts.

Staring at the café’s olive-green shiplap walls, I hardly saw them. A picture of blood pooling beneath Janet’s head filled my mind. I hadn’t texted or called Serenity yet. I had time on the plane but couldn’t put the words together in the right way to explain everything to Serenity in a text message. It seemed like a phone call was in order, and my excuse for not making the call yet was simply not having a few quiet moments alone, although I could have found the time if I’d tried harder. Serenity hardly slept, going to sleep late and waking each day before the break of dawn. I’d rationalized that it was a cold case and since Janet was dead, there was no longer a sense of urgency. Truth is, I wasn’t ready to talk about it, fearing I wouldn’t be able to hide my raw emotions. When I dwelled on it, I found myself choked with regret and melancholy. I wondered if Serenity would have done anything different if she’d been the one to make contact with Janet in Mexico, and if so, would the former Amish woman still be alive?

I pushed the half-eaten cookie aside and rubbed my face. When I opened my eyes, I looked around the café. There were an equal number of round, wooden tables and rustic, wooden-framed booths that were upholstered with hunter-green plastic seats. A shelf full of colorful mugs of every size and shape decorated one wall, and across from it was a bay of windows facing sunny Main Street. Behind the counter, in full view of the café’s patrons, Jasmine made specialty coffee drinks and Monica rolled out dough for one of her delicious desserts.

I was glad the ladies were too busy to come over and ask about my trip. The last thing I wanted to do was put on an act and probably would have failed miserably anyway. Jasmine was the most perceptive of the two and stubborn to boot. She wouldn’t have left me alone until I told her that Russo might not be returning to Possum Gap. And that news would have made her sad.

Groaning softly, I realized it was a conversation I’d have to have with Buddy that morning.

Before Russo applied for the position, we’d gone two months without a single applicant. No one wanted to move to a dying hill town in southern Kentucky. Sure, we didn’t lack beautiful terrain around here, but when the mine closed, followed by the papermill, other businesses followed suit, until half of the buildings in the downtown area were boarded up.

If I craned my neck, I could just make out the intricate clock tower at the far end of the courthouse. It was a remnant of prosperity of a long-gone era. It was also a glaring reminder of how far we’d fallen from a once prosperous mountain town.

Possum Gap was bordered on three sides by jagged Appalachian hills and quaint farmland on the fourth. My gaze settled on the stark mountains that were bathed in the morning sunshine. The trees were now bare, and shadows fell from the dips and cracks on the hillsides. I knew from experience that it was ten degrees colder on those peaks than in town, and the wind would be howling harder there as well. Without cell phone service or internet reception, the wilderness surrounding Possum Gap was a very dangerous place. Not only did black bears and red wolves prowl the rugged land, but I also learned firsthand not long ago that the rumors about mountain lions were true. And more deadly than the furry predators were the secretive and self-governing people that lived there.

I could hardly blame Russo if he chose to stay away from a jurisdiction that covered nearly fifty miles, and you still had to go to the neighboring county for a movie theater or a super store. Possum Gap didn’t have much to offer and with a sinking feeling in my chest, I acknowledged how naïve I’d been to think I had a sincere chance of keeping him here, for any reason.

The bells on the door jingled when it opened, and I leaned over to see who came in. Sucking in a deep breath, I saw my first appointment of the day stop by the counter, pick up a coffee, and walk over to my booth.

I didn’t smile or greet the man as he sat down across the table from me.

From his deep frown, I gathered he was about to give me bad news.

18

My ex was six feet tall and leanly muscular. He had a head full of wavy brown hair and a boyish face. When we dated in high school, he was always smiling and laughing. After an unexpected pregnancy on prom night, and without really knowing each other, we got married. We found out quickly that other than sex and fishing, we had nothing in common and couldn’t stand each other. Not long after tying the knot, Ted started drinking too much and I discovered he had a roving eye. Supposedly, he was reformed from both vices nowadays.

His new woman was everything I wasn’t—petite, blonde, and perky. Sandra managed the local YMCA and always wore a skirt and heels, which struck me as odd attire for the sports complex. Sandra and I had a polite relationship. She was an improvement from the other gals Ted dated after the divorce. Sandra was kind to my daughter, and that was more important than whether the two of us were chummy.

Would Ted ever marry her? I couldn’t say. Now that he was Possum Gap’s County Attorney, he was more cautious than he used to be. I wasn’t entirely convinced that his lady shopping days were over.

Because we were professionals in a small, southern town, we were thrust together more often than I wished, like today.

“Chloe said you went to New York, then Mexico.” When I nodded, he snapped, “What the hell is going on with you, Sadie?”

I figured Chloe only mentioned it to her father because she was upset and trying to make my life more difficult. “We’re not meeting to talk about me,” I said flatly.

Ted scrunched his mouth while he looked at me. “You really aren’t going to give me an explanation? Nothing at all?”

“No, Ted. What I do in my free time is none of your business.” His mouth dropped open and before he could argue, I rushed out, “Tanya supervised Chloe and as always, she did a fantastic job. I had a week of vacation days left and I used some of them. Now, can we talk about Meredith?”

Ted rubbed his forehead at the same time he glanced away. “She came to see me a few days ago.”

“Meredith?”

His gaze slowly returned. “Yes.”

Ted never lacked for words or confidence, but at that moment, he resembled a whooped dog. I leaned over the table. “Oh, my God. You were sleeping with her.”

“No!” He glanced around the diner which had emptied significantly since he’d sat down. Then he lowered his voice. “She showed up at my office late in the afternoon the other day and wanted to talk. She was upset.” He pressed his lips together in a tight frown. “Actually, hysterical is a better description.”

I thought back to our high school days. Meredith Sloan was one of the chipper cheerleaders. I was pretty sure Ted had gone on a date or two with her, but they’d never been an item. She’d dated one of Ted’s friends, Ryan Atwood, and they remained together until she left for college.

I pulled out a small notebook and a pen from my purse. “What did she tell you?”

Ted let out a rough breath. “Sadie, I should have taken her visit more seriously. I had a dinner date with Sandra, and the couple who recently moved here from California. They donated to make improvements to the sports center. I’m on the board and didn’t want to be late.”

An ugly picture formed in my mind of Ted shuffling a crying Meredith out of his office. “Please tell me you didn’t run her off before she told you something—anything?”

“She told me she wanted a divorce. Since I rarely handle family law, I recommended Betty Sue or Thomas.” Ted pressed his fingers into the corners of his eyes. “I never dreamed that she’d be dead a few days later.”

It wasn’t often that I pitied Ted, but after what I’d experienced second-guessing myself about Janet’s suicide, I understood why he was so worked up. “You couldn’t have known that her husband was so unstable.”

He met my gaze and his eyes were pained. “She told me he was going to kill her.”

I closed my eyes for an instant. Oh, Ted, you idiot. “Is that why you texted me?”

He nodded. “After dinner that evening, I started thinking about her, and I was worried enough to call Buddy since you weren’t answering my text messages.”

The pieces of a jigsaw puzzle I didn’t even know I was building suddenly snapped together. “Is that the domestic violence call Buddy went out on?”

“I wasn’t the only one who called. Are you aware that Paula Simmons is Meredith’s neighbor?”

“I knew Paula lived in the subdivision, but not exactly where.”

“Buddy received her call right before I contacted him. Did he fill you in on the details?” Ted’s anxious face became curious.

“I flew into Lexington early this morning, and other than an initial call about Meredith’s death, I haven’t had a chance to talk in depth with him yet.” I saw the judgmental light in his eyes. “I’m meeting Buddy at Meredith’s house right after I get done here.”

Ted lowered his eyes and nodded.

“Do you know anything else?”

“Just that when Buddy showed up, Meredith and Jorah were screaming at each other in their back yard. He told me that he talked to both of them, and since Jorah was the only one who had sustained an injury and Meredith wouldn’t press charges, he told Jorah to spend the night in a motel and not return to the house until he had a cool head—or something like that.”

I had missed a lot while I was traveling. “What day was that?

“Sunday.”

“Do you know if Jorah left the home at that time?”

“He did, and when he returned yesterday, he shot his wife.”

Nine times out of ten, once everyone settled down, the threat of further violence ended and the couples either made up or broke up. Unfortunately, there were those rare cases where things escalated.

“Are you sure that Meredith initially injured Jorah?”

“She admitted to slapping him across the face and Buddy wrote on his report that Jorah’s cheek was red and swollen.”

“Do you know if Meredith contacted Betty Sue or Thomas after the incident?”

“Betty Sue confirmed to me that Meredith had made an appointment for the first week of December to discuss filing for divorce.” Ted reached over and after giving me a questioning look and me nodding, he took the remaining half of my giant cookie and started eating it. “How well do you know Jorah?”

“Me? Not at all.” I shrugged. “I saw the couple together at the outdoor summer market a couple of times, and once at Cory’s soccer game that I was asked to referee.” I lifted my gaze, thinking. “I got the impression that Jorah wasn’t around much. I don’t even know what he did for a living. Do you?”

“From what Meredith told me, Jorah owns three preparedness stores throughout Kentucky. He’s a survivalist, Sadie.”

“What exactly did he sell?”

“Hunting gear, guns, bows, non-perishable foods—those kinds of items.”

I exhaled loudly and glanced out the window. The sun still shined, but clouds were moving in. By tonight, it would be raining and come morning, temperatures were expected to drop enough to change it over to ice.

“So, you’re telling me this guy has the training, supplies, and abilities to live off the grid, maybe even in the wilderness for an extended period of time?”

“It sure looks that way.”

Worrying over whether Russo would return and reliving the events of the past few days over and over in my head abruptly stopped as I fully embraced the new case and changed course. “Why then is the word on the streets that he up and left the area with the boy?”

“It’s my understanding Jorah has kin in Minnesota and it’s reasonable to think he’s headed there.”

“Is his car gone?”

“Buddy told me the video footage shows the car leaving the driveway right after the shooting.”

“Could Cory be seen in the video?”

“I don’t think so.”

“Is there anything else I should know?” I was ready to meet up with Buddy.

Ted shook his head. “Be careful, Sadie. I have a bad feeling about this one.”

Yeah, you and me both.

19

The cold wind gusted into my face, nearly taking my breath away before I ducked under the police tape and jogged up the steps to meet Buddy at the front door of the Blevins’ house.

Buddy’s smile nearly took up his entire face. “It sure is good to see you, Sadie.”

I resisted the urge to give him a hug. “Ted filled me in a little, but I’m way behind on the particulars of the case.”

The house sat on a cul-de-sac and not only were we alone, but the other homes appeared relatively quiet as well. I scanned the neighborhood and then rested my gaze on my first deputy.

Buddy licked his lips, scratching his head. He was fifteen years my senior and could have been elected to the head position if he’d been more motivated. The burly man towered over everyone in town at six foot seven. His full head of snowy white hair matched his trim beard, while contrasting in a startling way with his tanned face and broad features. For as long as I could remember, Buddy had white hair. Someone had told me that not long after his brother drowned in the Puissant River, Buddy’s hair turned snow colored. He was only fifteen at the time of the accident. I often thought that if you combined Clint Eastwood’s and Santa’s DNA, you’d come up with Buddy. At first glance, he was intimidating. Once you got to know him, you quickly found that Buddy was a great big softy who would give you the shirt off his back in a snowstorm. Buddy had no interest in leadership. Being a good soldier came naturally to him. He was loyal to a fault and while a quiet man, once you got him talking, he had an opinion about everything.

“It’s just terrible. Meredith’s oldest brother is a friend of mine. Her entire family is in shock.” His eyes misted. “I should have done more to protect her.”

I patted his thick arm. “Ted basically said the same thing a little bit ago.” When his gaze focused on me again, I said, “You can’t always see these types of things coming. Let’s focus on finding the bastard and little Cory.”

“What if they’re both dead?”

Buddy’s eyes were bloodshot and puffy. He looked exhausted. I felt a pang of regret for leaving town when I did.

“Do you have any evidence that the kidnapping ended in another murder, then suicide?” I asked, trying to ignore the wind battering my back.

“Not really. It seems like a possibility considering what Jorah did to his wife.”

“What was his demeanor when you arrived the other night for the domestic call?”

“He was the steadier one of the two. He didn’t raise his voice or argue when I asked him to go stay at the motel on Route 8.” Buddy slowly shook his head. “I felt sorry for him, believing she was the aggressor.”

“What made you blame her, Buddy? Meredith always struck me as a level-headed person.”

“The cussing that came out of her mouth shocked me, I guess.”

A couple of large pots of rotting mums and piles of soft pumpkins and gourds decorated each side of the front entrance. The brown doormat said “Welcome” and so did a wreath made up of fake sunflowers hanging on the door. From the corner of my eye, I saw movement and turned to watch a pile of leaves rise, caught up in a whirlwind. The twirling, yellow column moved across the yard and finally broke apart where the pavement of the street began. For an instant, I was back in Mexico. I remembered the dust devil. At the time, it was an interesting phenomenon, but later, I felt it had a strange connection to Janet and her impending death.

I shivered and blinked the memory away.

“What did Meredith say?”

“She was upset that Jorah had accused her of having multiple affairs with men she said she only knew in passing.”

“Did you ask for names?”

Buddy’s cheeks reddened. “I wanted to deescalate the fight, not throw gasoline on it.”

I nodded. “So the disagreement arose because Jorah believed his wife was cheating on him?”

“That’s the gist I got.”

“Where was Cory while this was happening?”

“Swinging on the swing at the base of a treehouse in the backyard.”

“Where Jorah eventually shot Meredith?”

Buddy nodded.

“After the shooting, did you find anything disturbed or unusual inside the house?”

“Nope. It seems that the altercation began and ended outside. The video footage confirms it.”

“Show me where the security camera is.”

I followed Buddy back down the steps and around the side yard. A white-sided modern farmhouse style rancher was next to the Blevins’ brick house. I immediately saw the two cameras below the eaves on the front and back corners of the house.

I turned to Buddy. “Does Paula Simmon live here?”

“Yep. She called me right before Ted to report her neighbors yelling at each other in their yard.”

“Did she hear anything the night of the shooting?”

He stuck his hands into his pants’ pockets and shook his head. “She lives alone and was at the grocery store when it happened. We received multiple calls from other residents about the gunshots and came to do a wellness check. Paula returned not long after we arrived and looked at her security camera footage. When she saw that it had captured the murder, she called us over to see for ourselves.”

“Did Paula send over the video evidence to the department?”

Buddy nodded. “Darcy saved everything before she left on the school field trip thingy.”

“I’ll take a look at it myself when I head back into town. Earlier, you said Cory couldn’t be seen in either of the tapes from the front or back cameras. Is there any evidence that Jorah took the kid when he left?”

“Just that he’s not here.”

“You and the other officers searched the house?”

“More than once.”

“Are there any personal effects that appear to be missing? As if they packed clothes in a hurry?”

“No, the inside of the house looks to be untouched, like they just disappeared into thin air.”

I left the porch and went to the gate leading into the Blevins’ backyard with Buddy following me. Carefully, I lifted the tape and opened the gate. Most of the crime scene tape had blown across the yard, but I couldn’t miss where Meredith had fallen. The grass was pressed flat in a size that would be comparable to a body and then some extra area around it where the paramedics would have loaded Meredith’s body onto a gurney.

The back of the house was buffered from the wind. Scanning the yard, I took in the chairs on the back deck, and a grill on the concrete pavers near the bottom of the steps. The yard was enclosed with a four-board, wooden fence and a large maple tree rose out of the ground close to the back perimeter fence. A tire swing hung from one of its thick branches, and a ladder traveled the length of the wide trunk straight into the floor of a square wooden treehouse. It wasn’t painted but looked sturdy with straight walls and a metal roof. The area inside couldn’t be more than four feet in diameter.

My gaze settled on the treehouse while Buddy described how he’d found Meredith lying on her back with a bullet wound from a large caliber handgun to her chest. He explained that the light coming from the back of the house created enough brightness to clearly see Jorah’s face in the video after he turned around and walked back inside. The front camera then caught his car pulling out just under four minutes later.

Unable to take a breath, I narrowed my gaze and walked closer to the treehouse. I pointed at the place below the solitary window opening that didn’t have any glass in it.

“Buddy, look there.”

“Oh, no.” He cupped his chin with his hand. “The hole might be old…”

Pulling out gloves from the pocket of my jacket, I put them on and with a sense of dread, started climbing the ladder. There were only ten rungs, spaced close together for a child to easily maneuver, but the short trip felt like it took forever. A rapid heartbeat and tense muscles accompanied me on the climb, and when I finally reached the last rung, I closed my eyes and sucked in a sharp breath before I poked my head into the treehouse.

I saw his white tennis shoes first. Sweeping my gaze along his denim jeans, red coat, and finally his head, I winced, quickly turning away.

“Buddy, call for an ambulance and alert Sheriff Adams that we’ve found Cory and will require assistance from his coroner.”

I heard Buddy gasp and knew exactly how he felt. Grief, guilt, rage, and disbelief spun into a solid knot in my stomach that slow breaths and tough concentration barely kept down.

Was it a stray bullet that hit Cory’s face as he huddled inside the tree house, possibly spying on his parents?

Or did his father intentionally shoot into the tree house, knowing he was there?

20

Since the clouds were spitting rain and temperatures had already started dropping, I conducted the interview in Paula’s study. The ambulance had left the Blevins’ premises a few minutes earlier with Cory’s body inside. Since Buddy knew the Sloan family well, I asked him to make the short trip to the other side of Possum Gap to give Meredith’s parents and siblings the bad news about Cory.

I was still numb myself. It had been a nightmare climbing the treehouse ladder, knowing in my heart what I would find. Only ten years old and now he was dead. The one thing that softened the blow was that spiritually, I liked to think that he was in his mother’s arms and at least they were together. But faith didn’t erase the image of the poor kid’s wrecked face. That would haunt me forever.

Paula sat on the edge of a sofa with her arms tightly crossed. I chose to remain standing by the window where I could look out and see the Blevins’ house and their backyard.

“I still can’t believe it.” Paula dropped her head back and groaned. “First Meredith, now Cory. I feel so sorry for Mr. and Mrs. Sloan. They were so hopeful that Cory would be found alive. They’re going to be completely devastated.”

I agreed with everything she said. After losing their daughter, the worse news possible was that their grandson was also dead. Rain pattered the windows, making trails across the glass. The gloom that had moved in over Possum Gap matched my mood.

I’d known Paula since high school, but like Meredith, we’d never been close. Over the years, Paula, who’d never married, had put on more than a few pounds, and it was difficult to recognize the school’s star track runner. She still had the same quiet voice and expressive, large eyes, though.

“Paula, I know this is hard and I’m sorry to bug you with more questions, but I have to find Jorah. He’s a danger to everyone.”

“I understand.” She dabbed the corners of her eyes with a tissue. “I used to babysit Cory sometimes when he was little. He was a sweet child who adored books and animals.” She glanced over at the plump calico cat sleeping on the other side of the sofa. “Cory loved Buttercup.”

I sighed and remained silent, watching the rain fall beyond the windows. At least he probably died instantly. Without Russo here to convince me of that, I still worried that he’d suffered long enough to understand that he was dying.

“I’m surprised Mr. Gallenstein and the other officers didn’t look in the treehouse for him.”

I dragged my gaze from outside back to Paula. Yeah, that had been on my mind as well. Buddy had screwed up, but he was my first deputy, and I felt responsible. He’d been overwhelmed by the murder of a family friend, and hopefulness had caused him to believe that Jorah had taken the boy with him.

“It’s hard for anyone to grasp that a man would kill his wife, but shooting his young son is something that I don’t think Buddy thought possible. He wanted to believe that Cory was safe and with his dad. Not dead. Trust me, he’s devastated that the boy passed, and no one else thought to look in the treehouse.”

“But you did.”

I met Paula’s steady gaze. “Well, I—”

“No need to make excuses for your subordinates, Sadie. Within a few minutes of arriving, you found Cory. I guess that’s why you’re sheriff and Mr. Gallenstein isn’t.”

“Look, Buddy is a huge asset to this town, and I don’t want you or anyone else pointing fingers at him. This is a tragedy that none of us can understand.”

Paula dropped her gaze. “They’d been arguing a lot lately. Well, in truth, ever since they’d moved next door, they’ve fought.” She sighed and inched closer to the cat and began stroking her. “I thought maybe since we’d hung out in high school, we’d reconnect. Other than me doing some free babysitting and the occasional holiday gathering, we really never became true friends.” She glanced up. “You know what I mean?”

“I do.” I held onto my little notebook and a pen but hadn’t written anything down yet. “Do you have any idea what they argued about?”

“Everything and anything. They weren’t quiet people, and although I tried to mind my own business, it was sometimes impossible.”

“Yet for all that turmoil, the other day was the first time you ever called law enforcement. Why?”

She picked up her cat and set it on her lap while her petting became more intense. “It was worse than ever before and I”—she sighed—“felt bad for Cory.”

“Do you recall what they were saying to each other?”

“Screaming, Sadie. They were screaming. Jorah kept accusing Meredith of having affairs with several men.”

I hated pressing the issue since Meredith couldn’t stick up for herself. “Do you think she was seeing anyone?”

“I have no idea. Like I already said, Meredith and I weren’t close. She worked long hours at the medical clinic and always seemed to be taking Cory places. He was on the soccer team and played the cello in the Middle School string orchestra.”

“Do you think things were escalating between the two of them?”

“Oh, for sure. I never would have called 911, but I thought someone was going to get hurt.”

“Buddy said that Jorah had a handprint on his face and initially thought Meredith was the aggressor. Did you ever see her acting violent before this time?”

Paula shook her head. “Never. Maybe she’d finally had enough of his name calling. And then he killed her. Shows you what standing up for yourself does if you’re a woman.”

“Pardon me?”

“Mr. Gallenstein and the other officers took Jorah’s side over the hysterical woman. That’s what usually happens. There’s a true-crime documentary that’s streaming right now where the same kind of thing happened. And that woman also ended up dead.”

“I assure you I’m going to review my team’s handling of the call, and it won’t happen again.” My sadness over Cory was slowly building into anger for him and his mother. I welcomed the tightening of my muscles and the heat surging through my veins. The physical reactions sharpened my senses and focused my mind.

“Do you think you’re really going to find Jorah?” Paula asked. “He’s the type of person who can fade into the scenery if he wants.”

“What do you mean by that?”

“There’s nothing striking about the man. He’s average height, with brown hair and eyes. Normally, he wears brown or green clothing and just kind of blends into his surroundings.” She glanced out the window. “Once, I was pulling weeds from my herb garden along my side of the fence and I didn’t notice Jorah was standing on the other side of it. He was so quiet and didn’t move. I swear, when I looked up and finally saw him, I nearly had a heart attack.”

“Did he say why he did that?”

“He just laughed and went back into his house.”

I had more questions and was ready to start taking notes when my cell phone rang.

“Excuse me,” I told Paula before walking into the foyer. “Hey, Buddy, how did it go with Meredith’s family?”

“As bad as you can imagine. That’s not why I’m calling.”

I heard the urgency in his voice and held my breath.

“Sadie, Chester Nowak was just found dead in his home on Cliff Pike by the dog walker.”

I knew Chester hired Isabella Geoffrey to walk his two beagles a few mornings a week while he was at work. On a day like this, it would have been only a quick potty outing for the dogs.

“How did Chester die, Buddy?”

“Gunshot to the head.”

“I’ll meet you at his house in fifteen minutes.” When I hung up and turned around, Paula was standing in the doorway.

“Are you talking about Chester Nowak, the fifth-grade teacher?” she asked.

Since the next of kin hadn’t been officially notified yet, I didn’t want to say anything. “I can’t say—”

“I’m pretty sure I heard Jorah say his name the other night when he was yelling at Meredith.”

I stared at Paula. “Jorah accused Meredith of having an affair with Chester Nowak?”

“He only said the first name—Chester. Now that I think about it, Chester is Cory’s teacher. Sorry, was his teacher.”

It felt like my head was going to explode. Did Jorah shoot Chester?

I quickly crossed the small room to stand directly in front of Paula. “You need to think harder, Paula. Do you remember any other names? Anyone at all?”

Paula’s eyes drifted to the ceiling. “I was trying to mind my own business, you know. Chester’s name stuck out because it’s an unusual name and I instantly thought about Cory’s teacher.”

“Why didn’t you tell me this before?” I wanted to shake Paula.

“I forgot about it. It didn’t seem important until just now when I overheard you talking on the phone.”

Taking a deep breath, I worked to remain patient with her. She wasn’t a law officer or detective. Her mind doesn’t work like yours, Sadie.

“Names, do you remember any other names?” I asked the question slowly.

“Maybe…hmm…Ted…that’s right. He accused her of sleeping with a lawyer named Ted—” She covered her mouth, and her eyes grew wide at the same time I felt my heart lurch into my throat. “Do you think he meant your ex,Ted?”

Stuffing the notepad and pen into my jacket, I ran out the front door without answering her. Jumping into the cruiser, I flipped on the lights and sirens and backed out of the driveway.

Was Jorah Blevins hunting the men who he thought had affairs with his wife? The only Ted who was also a lawyer in this town was my ex-husband, and with his history of hooking up with married women, I wouldn’t be surprised if he had slept with Meredith, even though he’d denied it.

“You idiot, Ted!” I shouted inside the cab.

Ted’s adulterous ways might have finally caught up with him this time.

21

Flashing lights and multiple cruisers were parked in Ted’s driveway, which used to be mine before the divorce. Storm drains along the tree-lined street were rapidly filling as the rain poured down harder. It was mid-afternoon and because of the heavy cloud coverage and downpour, it seemed like nighttime.

I parked behind Tanya’s SUV and jumped out of the cruiser. Her driver’s door immediately opened, and she dashed into the rain, popping open a large umbrella to cover us.

“No one will tell me anything. What have you heard?!” Tanya’s eyes were wild.

“Only that Ted was shot.” I kept walking quickly and Tanya came with me, holding the umbrella over both of us. Her purple raincoat caught my eye. It was a beacon of color in an otherwise water-drenched, drab world.

“What is happening, Sadie?” She rushed the words out. “Could it possibly be Jorah?”

I slowed and focused on her contorted expression. “What have you heard?”

“Nothing.” She sniffed. “It was just a thought.”

Tanya had a sharp mind.

“Don’t you have to pick up Chloe at the school?” I paused at the base of the front steps.

“They’re not arriving until ten o’clock tonight now. Something about an impromptu stop at an art gallery and eating a later dinner.”

Buddy came through the front door at the same moment the ambulance pulled up in front of the house. “Sadie, hurry up!”

I jogged up the steps with Tanya right behind me.

“Not you, Tanya,” Buddy said, holding out his hand. “Go home.”

I saw his tear-filled eyes, quivering lips, and the way he blinked rapidly. Turning to Tanya, I said, “I’ll text you after I see what’s going on—”

“But you need me!”

Tanya tried to walk by, and I stepped in front of her. “Where I need you most is on standby to pick up Chloe.” I lowered my voice to a harsh whisper. “Her dad might be dead or dying. Please take care of Chloe until I can come for her.”

“What do I tell her?” Tanya asked in a calmer voice.

“If she hasn’t heard anything, then nothing. I’ll personally give her any bad news.”

Tanya sniffed, then nodded. “Don’t keep me on pins and needles waiting for an update, Sadie.”

“Hold onto your phone,” I said, already knowing Tanya’s cell phone was like an extra appendage to her.

I gestured wildly for the EMTs, David and Bran, to follow me into the house. The three of us met Buddy in the doorway.

Holding my breath, I asked, “Is Ted gone?”

Buddy didn’t answer, instead, he led us through the living room and into the kitchen, a little more slowly than I would have preferred. I saw Sandra first. In a light blue skirt and matching sweater, she laid sprawled on her side in a puddle of her own blood. Her grayish face was frozen, and her clouded eyes stared at nothing. I immediately knew that she was dead.

Feeling separated from my own body, I stepped around Sandra to reach Ted. He had crumpled to the tiled floor next to the table. Coffee spilled out of his coffee mug saying, “See You Later, Litigator,” with a corny alligator drawing. Ted’s sandwich sat on a plate and next to it was the Possum Gap Gazette, opened to the sports page.

My gaze skimmed over the scene, imprinting it to memory while I knelt next to my ex-husband. He’d been shot in the stomach, and I knew from experience how painful the wound was. Picking up his limp, cold hand, I rubbed it. Bran took Ted’s vitals while David cut off his shirt to inspect the large gunshot injury.

“Ted, do you hear me? It’s Sadie. You’ve been shot. The guys are here to take you to the hospital.” I let out a ragged breath. “Hold on for Chloe, Ted. You’re finally paying attention to her, and you better not die.”

I started to rise, but amazingly, he squeezed my hand. When his pale face slowly turned towards me, I leaned close to it.

“Jorah…Blevins. Accused…me—” He coughed, and Bran nudged me.

“Sadie, it’s a critical wound. It looks like he’s been laying here like this for a while. We need to get him to the hospital. Now.”

I raised my hand to silence Bran without looking at him.

“Did Jorah Blevins shoot you and Sandra?”

“Yes.” Only Sandra’s feet could be seen from where Ted was positioned. He tried to crane his head to look in her direction and I cupped his face. “Stop moving, Ted, and save your energy. You’re nowhere near out of the woods yet.”

“Is she…”

I barely shook my head and Ted blinked, then closed his eyes.

“Sadie—” Bran implored.

I got to my feet and backed away, so Bran and David could do their jobs.

Buddy joined me at the door. “I’m so sorry, Sadie.”

“This isn’t how I expected the day to go.” Working to take steadier breaths, I eyed the big man. “Chloe and Ted were just starting to develop a relationship. If he dies, it’s going to tear that girl up.”

“She has you and Tanya. And me. She’ll move on because she has to.”

I watched as Ted was loaded onto the gurney. “Who’s at Chester’s?”

“Sheriff Crawford’s coroner, along with three officers.” Buddy grasped his forehead, watching the EMTs take Ted out through the living room. “I don’t know if the Wilkins County men will be enough. We might need to call in the state police as reinforcements.”

David shouted from the other room. “We’ll send another ambulance for Sandra.”

I could hardly believe Sandra was dead, even though I was staring at her corpse. While I shifted my gaze and studied the room, I said, “Buddy, her family needs to be notified.”

“I’ll do it,” Buddy offered without moving. “What the hell has gotten into Jorah? It’s bad enough to murder your wife and child, but to start killing people that aren’t even part of the family unit?”

“Who discovered Sandra and Ted and made the call?”

“The postal carrier, Jill Craycraft. I briefly interviewed her before you arrived. She said she came to the back door to deliver a package because that’s what she always does at Sandra’s request. Jill found the door wide open and looked in. When she saw Sandra, she immediately called us.”

I crossed the room to look out the door and sure enough, a package sat on the small table. It was protected from the weather from the roof and the side of the garage. No one from the road would see any packages either, making deliveries less likely to be stolen.

Pivoting, I returned my gaze to Sandra’s lifeless form. “He’s taking out the men he thinks might have been having affairs with Meredith. And apparently, anyone else who gets in the way.” I inhaled deeply and let the breath trickle back out as I rubbed my mouth with my fingertips. “I’m afraid there might be more men in danger.”

“Shoot, Sadie, an ice storm is supposed to hit in a few hours. Surely, after he did this,”—Buddy swept his hand towards Sandra—“he left Possum Gap.”

“I wouldn’t bet on it. The man is on a quest for revenge. It’s like something snapped in his head. You know how it is, Buddy. Once you’ve killed, adding to the body count isn’t a big deal. You can only be physically imprisoned for one lifetime and if you’re going to hell anyway, why not take out every single perceived enemy you have along the way?”

“You’re starting to think too much like a psychopath.”

“I don’t believe Jorah is mentally deranged. Unhinged, sure, but he knows exactly what he’s doing.” I glanced at the door. “Jorah must have knocked on the back door and Sandra opened it.” Glancing between Sandra and the spot where Ted was down, I continued, “Ted started to rise, but was shot right after Sandra. He knocked over his mug when he fell.” I met Buddy’s stoic gaze. “Ted met me at the café early this morning. He must have returned home to have lunch with Sandra.”

“Around noon?” Buddy asked.

I nodded. “Most likely, yeah.”

“They drive separately, and I remember Chloe mentioning that Ted and Sandra sometimes met at home on their lunch hours.” I chewed my lip and quickly created a timeline in my head. “Which means, Chester was shot in the early morning hours, and then Jorah showed up here about midday.” I groaned. “He’s had at least a few hours to disappear.”

“Unless there are other victims,” Buddy suggested.

Restlessness made me walk to the window over the sink. It was still pouring outside. “What a cruddy time for Russo to go on hiatus.”

“Call him, Sadie,” Buddy implored. “I know he’ll come back if you beg him to.”

I continued to take small breaths to settle my rapidly beating heart. “True, he might, but what good will that do us the next time calamity strikes? We have to get used to being on our own again because Russo isn’t dependable.”

Buddy sighed deeply. “If you don’t need me here, I’ll make my way over to Sandra’s folks’ home. I’d like to tell them personally before word gets out. And before the storm hits. What about your ex-in-laws? Should I speak to them as well or do you want that honor?”

I flinched. “I’d appreciate you talking to Sandra’s and Ted’s families. Give them all my condolences. I’ll wait with Officer Mendez for the next ambulance and give Adam a call. Maybe he can send over a couple more officers.” Turning away from the window, I checked my watch. “I’d like to talk to Isabella personally and see the crime scene at Chester’s within the hour. Once the roads become icy, we’ll be stuck wherever we end up until tomorrow afternoon.”

“What a damn mess. What are we going to do when every other fool in town slides off the road and starts calling dispatch? We’re seriously undermanned and Sheriff Crawford needs his own people working his jurisdiction as the weather deteriorates.”

“We’ll do what we can, and,” I added, “Pray.”

Buddy started towards the living room and turned back. “Maybe Jorah isn’t a threat any longer. He might just have taken care of himself, you know what I mean?”

“He makes a living as a survivalist. I doubt he’ll take himself down. We’re going to have to that.”

“Tomorrow, Sadie. Don’t get any foolish ideas about going after him tonight. He’s dangerous enough, throw in Mother Nature’s wrath, and it will only end badly.”

I crossed my arms without responding and after a few long seconds, Buddy shook his head and left.

Alone with Sandra, I stared at her wound. The bullet struck her heart, killing her quickly. She probably felt some discomfort before she became unconscious. I assumed Jorah meant to kill Ted in the same way, but instead of striking his heart, he missed by a couple of inches. He must have been in a hurry if he didn’t take a moment to verify that both had suffered kill shots. No, Jorah fled, leaving the door wide open.

A tremor rocked through me. I shifted my weight, glancing back out the window. Jorah was in a hurry because he had another victim on his list.

“Sadie!”

It was Officer Mendez.

I met him in the living room, where a picture on the wall of Sandra and Ted on a beach caught my eye. Life could change in a heartbeat.

Water dripped off Mendez’s hat and cold air clung to his uniform. “Ashley Lang drove up. She’s waiting in her car to speak to you—say’s it’s urgent.”

The name sounded familiar. “Remind me who she is?”

“Ashley is one of the physical therapists over at the medical clinic.”

She would have worked with Meredith. I passed by Mendez. “Go ahead and set the crime scene tape up. The next ambulance should arrive any minute.”

I didn’t wait for Mendez to respond, going through the front door and making a dash to the white Toyota Camry. The door was unlocked, and I slid into the passenger seat without asking. I thought about Russo’s old girlfriend, Officer Brooklyn Desmond, and imagined her frowning face. It was something that a big city officer wouldn’t do, but this was Possum Gap and things were a bit more laid back.

“Are they dead, Sheriff? Ted, Sandra, and even Chester?”

The engine was on, and the heat cranked to an almost uncomfortably high temperature. Lulling the inside of the car were the back-and-forth swipes of the windshield wipers.

I’d talked to Ashley on several different occasions over the years. I now recalled that she had a daughter who was a year older than Chloe and they’d worked as lifeguards together at the recreation pool during the summer months.

News traveled fast in a small town. “I’m not going to say anything until Buddy talks to the families. Officer Mendez said you had important business with me? I have a lot going on presently and only have a minute.”

Ashley wore stylish, yellow-rimmed glasses and had shoulder length blonde, wavy hair. Her jacket was light green, and my overall impression of the woman was the same as the other times I’d encountered her—her personality was as bright as her attire.

“I understand completely. Meredith was my friend, and we worked long hours together.” She shrugged as she sat back. “She confided in me about Jorah’s worsening behavior and their arguments.”

“Do you recall when things started getting worse?”

“Jorah went on a hunting trip in the Rocky Mountains a few months ago. He’d always been an odd fellow, but Meredith said that when he returned, he was way worse. I encouraged her to leave him, but she was afraid to.”

I faced Ashley, not wanting to say much, but realizing she might have the answers I needed.

“Was Jorah accusing Meredith of having relationships with other men?”

“He sure was.” She blew out a hard breath and pushed her glasses higher on the bridge of her nose. “Jorah had a jealous mind. Any man Meredith even spoke to instantly became an illicit affair in his head. He was extremely jealous of her even talking to other men.”

My chest tightened. “Did Meredith mention any men in particular?”

Ashley leaned over the middle console. “Chester Nowalk, because Meredith had been meeting weekly with him about Cory’s grades. She also told me that she was afraid that Jorah might have somehow figured out she’d made an appointment with Ted.”

“How would he be privy to that information?”

“Meredith’s phone disappeared a few days ago and she was frantic that Jorah had taken it.”

That was news to me. “Anyone else that he might have suspected? Maybe something on her phone that sicced him on a particular man?”

“Besides work and Cory’s activities, Meredith went nowhere, but there was a man who’d been coming to the clinic for shoulder pain from a recent injury. He didn’t have insurance and paid out of pocket.”

“How would Jorah know anything about one of her patients?”

“Well, Meredith got to talking about how Cory was also getting sick a lot and this man told her that honey had antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties and that it may help the boy to fight off his ongoing infections.”

“Honey?” The breath caught in my throat, and I froze.

She nodded briskly. “Somehow, he figured out from their conversations where she lived and one day last week, he dropped off a case of honey, telling Meredith it was a gift for putting up with his cranky mood over the lack of mobility in his shoulder.”

I swallowed a hot knot down my throat, asking a question that I already guessed the answer to. “Did Jorah ask Meredith where the honey came from?”

“Oh, he didn’t have to ask because he pulled in and talked to the fellow in person.” Ashley’s shoulder dropped as she sighed. “It might have been the straw that broke the proverbial camel’s back. That’s what Jorah and Meredith were arguing about when Officer Gallenstein showed up the first time. She said that he accused her of sleeping with multiple men, including the honey-guy. When she tried to walk away from Jorah, he blocked her path and wouldn’t let her pass.”

“So she slapped him?”

“Yes, that’s when it happened.”

With a pounding heart and a sudden sense of urgency, I asked the question that had been on the tip of my tongue since Ashley had mentioned honey.

“Ashley, that man’s life is in danger. Forget medical confidentiality, you have to tell me his name.”

“I don’t mind to at all, Sheriff. It was one of the Dovers—John Dover.”

22

“Damn it, Sadie! The rain coming down is starting to freeze on the road. Wait until tomorrow morning and I’ll go with you,” Buddy implored.

I was already on Dark Hollow Road and about to lose cellular reception and daylight. Tree branches folded over the narrow, empty country road from the wind and the last few leaves covering their branches spiraled across the wet pavement. Going faster than I should in the current conditions, I lightly tapped the breaks when I came to a spot where the rainwater had pooled on the road from a backed-up ditch. I heard the tapping on the windshield before I saw the small, transparent ice pellets.

“There’s no time to wait. John wasn’t at his house and neither was his dog, Daisy. He must be in the hollow with the rest of his kin.” I took a quick breath, stopping the cruiser in the road to finish the conversation before I knew I’d lose Buddy. “Jorah killed two more people today, and Ted might not even make it. He’s on a rampage, and I’m sure John will be his next victim.”

“That’s nonsense! Do you think that crazy man can just waltz into the Dover compound and kill John? Those people are better armed than our department, and they always have scouts and sentries posted around the property.”

Buddy was right, but how could I explain to him that I wouldn’t be able to rest or relax until I knew John was safe? The last thing I wanted was for my first deputy, who already had sternly advised me against a relationship with the Dover man, to know that I actually had feelings for John. Sure, they might be confusing and quite hazy, but they were there, nonetheless.

“No one thought Jorah Blevins had it in him to kill Meredith and his son, let alone hunt down Chester and Ted because they’d recently met with his wife.” My voice raised. “Buddy, he shot Sandra dead for opening the door. Not only is he a vile man, but he’s armed and has survivalist training, and that makes him extremely dangerous.”

“The roads are going to be a sheet of ice within the hour, and when the trees start falling on powerlines, we’ll have a county-wide electrical outage. We’ve had three traffic accidents in twenty minutes. You should be here in town assisting with the emergencies or at the very least, at Helena House riding out the storm with Chloe.”

I felt my face heat, and my chest deflated. I had to work hard to keep my voice steady. “The school bus stopped at a hotel on Interstate 75 for the night, rather than chance a drive on our curvy and hilly roads home in icy conditions. Darcy said the kids were eating dinner in the hotel’s restaurant and turning in early. They plan to strike out first thing in the morning after the roads have been properly salted and cleared of any fallen trees.” Buddy started to speak, but I spoke right over him. “As far as the weather and road conditions, we’ve issued a travel warning, and I’d wager that Possum Gap will be a ghost town within the hour. Go ahead and spend the night at the department and stay in touch with the fire department and emergency electrical crews that are on standby. I already called the Rankin brothers and several of them are at the county garage, filling their dump trucks with salt to distribute in the further reaches of our jurisdiction.”

“Your plans are solid, but—”

“There’s no buts. We have a spree killer in our midst, and John Dover is marked as his next victim. I won’t leave it to the Dovers to remedy this situation on their own. Besides, you know there’s no cell phone reception in the hollow. I’ve repeatedly called John and Summit, and both phones go immediately to voicemail.”

“Look, if you absolutely must do this, plan to spend the night in the hollow. You’re never going to make it up that hill before you reach Helena House without the road being salted, and there will likely be downed trees to navigate.”

“Way ahead of you, Buddy. I called Lucinda Coblentz a few miles back and asked if I could crash at her place tonight if the roads aren’t easily navigable due to the ice storm. And she said she’ll have a bedroom ready, along with hot chocolate and a slice of pumpkin pie.”

“I have a bad feeling about this.” Buddy’s tone was low and scratchy.

“It could be sunny and noontime and you’d still be paranoid about me heading into Dover lands. It’s something I must do.” Before he could respond, I added, “I’m losing reception. Stay safe and I’ll call you later this evening to touch base.”

I hung up with a long, tired sigh. “Dang, why does the weather turn foul nearly every time I visit Jewelweed Hollow?”

With no one to answer me, I pressed the gas pedal and started moving again. The roads were slick by the time I reached the lane to Jewelweed Hollow. I was thankful for the gravel that gave me some traction so I could continue at a decent speed.

Freezing rain began to accumulate on everything. Branches bent with extra weight, and I kept my windshield wipers on full speed along with blowing warm air on the windshields, trying to keep them defrosted. In just a couple of minutes, every tree and boulder sparkled from the coating of ice. It would have been a magical scene if my heart wasn’t banging in my chest.

Regardless of the season, the forest around Jewelweed Hollow was beautiful. I could hear the roaring rapids without seeing the rushing water to the right of the cruiser, but I knew just a little way into the wall of trees, there was a cliff and at the bottom was the meandering river.

When I was a teenager, I’d hiked the trails around the Dover compound, and as an adult and sheriff of Possum Gap, I’d found myself traveling into the wilderness on more criminal cases than I’d liked. I caught a strong, tangy whiff of hickory smoke right before the trees fell away and an icy green landscape appeared. Thick, milky mist rose off the barely contained river that I now caught glimpses of. The hills surrounding the hollow caught my attention. It was a stunning location, marred by single-wide trailers, junk trucks, plastic toys, and overgrown yards. A pack of mismatched hunting and herding type dogs trotted across the lane and even with icy cold sleet falling from the low clouds, I spotted a handful of bundled up children playing beneath a huge sycamore tree.

In a dozen places, smoke twirled into the air, then sunk quickly. Growing up in the mountains myself, I knew this was the atmosphere’s way of telling us that temperatures were dropping. I was glad not to be immediately greeted by a gang of hillbillies with rifles like most of the times I came to the hollow unannounced.

The Dovers, like other hill folk, talked a lot of about God and praying, even though they made a living off their moonshine stills, marijuana, and poppies. They lived violent lives and I’d been told by old timers that the mountains were littered with the bodies of people who’d crossed them.

Yet, for the trashy homes and illicit behaviors, there was an earthy, almost magical quality to these people that had always fascinated me, while at the same time making my stomach roll. Weighted down by the freezing rain, I saw that instead of flapping in the wind, the enormous confederate and American flags in the middle of the meadow were flat against their poles. Horses and cows grazed in the tall grass, and they didn’t raise their heads to watch me pass. A fluffy and very large Pyrenees dog jogged alongside the cruiser, ignoring the kids who stopped playing to gawk at me.

A sharp whistle pierced the windows, and I watched the giant white dog shoot away from the vehicle to meet an old man on the porch of his trailer. A cigarette hung out of his mouth, and he held a long rifle in his hands. When a gray-haired woman peeked out the door, he turned his head and said something to her, then she disappeared back inside.

Knowing there were at least a few dozen Dovers and extended kin living throughout the meadow, it was eerily quiet in the compound. Nature itself seemed to hold its breath as the ice accumulated, causing the trailers’ roofs and the tops of anything not touching the ground to turn grayish white. It would take an hour or two longer for the ice to stick on the warm earth here in the hollow.

My gaze swept past the dozen or so trailers to climb the hillside and settle on the tannish doublewide on the knoll above the meadow. I could just make out the pink flamingos and the statue of Mary in the front yard. It was the fanciest abode in the compound and where the matriarch of the clan lived. Up until recently, that title had been held by Geraldine Dover. After she’d been shot by a rival clan and died, the torch passed to her youngest daughter, Lucy.

A knock on the cruiser made me hit the brakes. I swiveled in my seat just as one of the Dover men stepped up to the window. Carrying a shotgun and wearing stained, tan-colored coveralls, and an orange knit cap that nearly matched the color of his long, greasy hair and bushy beard, he resembled most of the other Dover men.

Preemptively, I asked, “Is John here?”

The man scratched his chin through the beard. With the icy wind pummeling his face, his nose and cheeks were beet red. “I ain’t talking to you about nothing.”

I swallowed when another red-headed man joined the first one, only this guy wore green coveralls, a blue hat, and his hair and beard were shorter and more brown than red.

“What about Summit?” I asked.

“What about him?” the first guy said.

“Is he around?” I was starting to lose patience.

“Naw, he drove to Wilkins for truck parts this morning.”

“The ice storm will get worse overnight. He shouldn’t have made the trip.”

The Dover man tilted his head, narrowing his eyes on me. “Summit ain’t stupid. He’s staying over with an army buddy of his and coming back tomorrow, not that it’s any of your business.”

I groaned, hating the fact that I’d finally arrived in the hollow and wasn’t getting anywhere quickly in finding John. With my stomach in knots, I drew in a deep breath and forced the words out. “Can I speak with Lucy?”

“You ain’t gonna pester Lucy. Go home and come back on a sunny day.” Both men started walking away.

I clenched my jaw and got out of the cruiser. Unzipping my jacket, I touched the handle of my gun. “Hey, I’m not finished talking to you.”

The men turned around, with the one in green laughing and the mouthy Dover striding back towards me with speed.

I pulled my gun and aimed it at the green coveralls, right where the man’s heart was. “Stop or I’ll shoot him.”

“What the hell for?” The original Dover shouted.

“Do you think I would drive up here during an ice storm only to be turned away by you two buffoons.” I didn’t give either man the chance to respond to the name calling. “I’m on urgent business and—I must speak to Lucy. It’s a matter of life and death.”

I hated my cracking voice, but the bitter cold, the wet wind took my breath away.

The men looked at each other, then the raggedy, orange-haired one said, “Go on up yonder and see if Lucy wants to entertain the sheriff.”

I wanted to cut in and say she didn’t have a choice, but I knew that I wouldn’t be dealing with just the two of them. From where I stood, I saw cracks appearing in broken blinds in multiple trailers. There were a lot of eyes on me, and I was alone in hostile territory.

The guy in green coveralls walked leisurely to the nearest trailer, which happened to be white with black trim. He climbed onto the four-wheeler parked at the foot of the steps. When the engine roared to life, a rooster locked in the coop at our backs started crowing even though it was now fully dark in the hollow.

It was uncomfortable standing with the orange-haired man in the sleet and wind, so I backed up to the cruiser and without taking my eyes off the man, I got inside.

While the Dovers had electricity in the hollow, they relied on generators, battery operated lanterns, and good old-fashioned torches on nights like this. Even with the sleet coming down harder and thick, gray clouds blotting out the full moon and stars, there were enough solar lights throughout the compound and along the lane that combined with my headlights, I could still see fairly well.

Stoic and unaffected by the harsh weather conditions, the Dover man stood like a statute several feet away from the cruiser. My gaze left him briefly to follow the other one going up the hill. The large tires and all-wheel drive tackled the accumulating ice with ease.

After taking a sip of water from the cannister in the cup holder, I checked my phone. As I suspected, there was no cell phone or internet service. I was on my own. Reaching over to the passenger seat, I grabbed the blue scarf that Tanya had knitted for me a few years back and tied it around my neck.

Keeping my gun resting in my lap, I pressed the gas pedal and started towards the steep driveway that led to Lucy’s home. I wasn’t waiting for someone to return and inform me that I couldn’t have an audience with the hillbilly queen. I also realized that it was now or never if I was ever going to make it up the slope before it completely iced over.

I watched the frozen soldier in the sideview mirror, and he didn’t move, but he was smirking.

“What have you gotten yourself into, Sadie?” I muttered. My next thought was that I sure hoped John appreciated my efforts to verify that he was safe.

Then my tires started spinning. I turned them slightly, hoping to gain traction on the edges of the lane that were made up of clumps of grass, but failed.

As the cruiser slid sideways, I craned my neck to see if any of the three large trees in my path would catch the vehicle or if I’d slip between them and straight down the steep embankment.

It happened so quickly, I didn’t have the necessary time to panic and luckily, the low crunching sound that my cruiser made striking one of the trees didn’t sound like too much damage had been done. The cruiser was wedged up against the tree and close enough to the driveway that a wrecker shouldn’t have too much difficulty pulling me out. Except that all the tow trucks in town were super busy and none of their owners would come into the hollow on even a pleasant day for an obscene amount of money, meaning I’d be at the mercy of the Dover clan to lift my cruiser back on the driveway.

I pressed my hands into my face and groaned.

Another knock on my window brought my head up. The orange-haired fellow grinned back at me when I rolled the window down.

“You shouldn’t have gotten your damn panties in a wad and just waited a couple of minutes. Now look at your predicament.”

I holstered my gun and stuffed a couple of heavy boxes of ammunition into my pack, which I slung over my shoulder before grabbing my shotgun. Glad that I’d worn quality boots with woolen socks, I stepped out of the cruiser.

Orange-haired guy raised his hands. “Whoa, you aren’t going anywhere armed to the teeth.”

“Do you really want to have a shootout with me?” I motioned at the cruiser. “I’m obviously in a hurry and in no mood for delay, and if it’s my day to die, then so be it.”

The man’s eyes widened. “You’re batshit crazy.”

“Yeah, maybe so. I’ve had a tough week that started out in sunny Mexico where I failed to stop a young woman from blowing her brains out and a family from being murdered by a cartel.” My voice gained volume as the air puffed out of my mouth. “My coroner is gone and might not be coming back, and a madman killed his wife, child, and a couple of other citizens and maybe my ex-husband, which is going to be a hard conversation to have with my teenaged daughter.” I lifted my chin at the cruiser, not willing to take both hands off the shotgun. “Getting my cruiser out is problematic and if I do anytime soon, I can’t safely make it out of the hollow at the rate the ice is raining down on us.” I straightened my back. “So if you’ll excuse me, I’m going on up to have a quick chat with Lucy.”

“Oh, really?” He casually pointed his gun at me.

“I came here to save one of your kin. If you want to exchange shots, fine. But I’ll kindly ask you to move aside and allow your matriarch to deal with me as she sees fit, because you know full well that if you kill me right here in the driveway, she might just as likely turn you into a dead man if my killing wasn’t what she had in mind.”

I blew out a cold breath and tried not to shiver as sleet struck my face and the stark cold penetrated my jacket and the long-sleeved shirt beneath it.

The Dover lost his grin. It was replaced with a tight frown. “I heard that you didn’t grovel to anyone.”

The phrase sent a shock through my mind. “Where’d you hear that?”

“Granny Gerrie said it one time. She done told me that Sadie Mills wasn’t like the sheriffs who came before her. She wouldn’t be subservient to us, but she’d always hold her ground while never disrespecting us.” He scowled. “No one ever challenged me to a shootout in such a polite way while fully meaning to go through with it.” He lowered his weapon and stepped aside. With a sweeping gesture of his hand and a slight bow, he added, “Go further at your own risk, Sheriff. As you pointed out, no one wants to annoy my cousin Lucy for fear of unleashing her temper.”

“I’m well-acquainted with Lucy’s anger management issues.” I stepped carefully, afraid I’d fall on my face in front of the Dover man I’d just made peace with. “What’s your name anyway?”

“Emory Dover.”

“Thank you for being civil.” I sucked in a breath, ignoring the way my cheeks and lips felt raw in only a couple of minutes outside. “I’ll be on my way.”

The sound of a four-wheeler engine roaring turned my head.

“Gideon can give you a ride up, I suppose,” Emory called after me.

“No, I’ll walk the rest of the way, thanks.”

Passing Gideon, I lowered my face, avoiding the sharp wind. Since he didn’t stop, I figured I’d been given the go-ahead to meet with Lucy. Of course, by the time I reached her doorway, I’d be an icicle if I didn’t fall and break my neck first.

Is John worth this much trouble? It was a question I couldn’t answer, but maybe my drastic actions already had.

23

I was about to knock on the door when it popped open, and a puff of smoke hit me in the face. Coughing, I stepped back.

“I just want to talk to you about John.”

Expertly, she balanced the cigarette between her lips while she braced her hands on each side of the doorframe. In a t-shirt and short shorts, Lucy was dressed more for the middle of summer than a late November ice storm. Her red hair was loose on her shoulders and the creases at the corners of her eyes appeared more prominent than the last time I’d met with her. Ruling the hill clan was a challenge, even for a cantankerous forty-something-year-old in good health.

“Now look what you did to my tree, Sheriff. You done put a gash in it with your fucking cop car.” The expression on her sharp-edged, foxlike face was sour.

I swallowed a gulp of cold air. My limbs were stiff, and I couldn’t feel my cheeks. Arguing with the Dover matriarch while I stood on the porch with frigid wind pummeling my back wasn’t the plan.

“I’m sorry about that. I’ll personally pay for any damage to your land or tree.”

“What the fuck were you thinking? It’s a fucking sheet of damn ice on a steep incline.”

Standing up straighter, I frowned back at the woman who stood around three inches taller than me. “Look, I admit it was dumb to try, but I’m on urgent business.”

Lucy frowned harder. “How does your business affect me?”

“It’s about John.” A blast of ice pellets struck my back. “Can we talk inside. Please.”

Lucy sighed dramatically before letting go of the doorframe and turning sideways. “Come on in, Sheriff. I’d sure hate for you to tell anyone I wasn’t hospitable.”

I walked by her straight into a living area that looked pretty much the same as the last time I’d visited Lucy’s mother about another case. The woodstove in the corner of the room was putting out a lot of heat and almost immediately, my face became flushed. Looking around, I saw that Geraldine’s knick-knacks still decorated the numerous shelves and the head of an enormous twenty-point buck stared back at me from one of the dark paneled walls.

“Are you thirsty? A root beer? Or perhaps something stronger that will warm your gut in a heartbeat?” Lucy walked to one of the shelves and reached for a jar full of amber-colored liquid. “I personally canned this batch last summer. It has an infusion of honey and spearmint that will fix anything that ails ya.”

I held up my hand. “No, thank you. This won’t be a leisurely chat.”

Lucy’s brows shot up. “My, oh, my, I reckon it’s bad if I can’t tempt you with glass of the sweet stuff on a night like this.”

A well-muscled young man strolled into the room from a dark hallway wearing nothing but his birthday suit. I immediately whirled around, covering my mouth with my hands. Lucy reacted even quicker.

“Cash, get the fuck back in the bedroom! Can’t you see I got company?”

“How was I supposed to know that? Ice is falling from the clouds out there. Who would be dumb enough—”

I heard Lucy running across the wooden floor. “Get your ass back in the bedroom. This won’t take long.”

“All right, all right,” Cash muttered.

“You can turn back around,” Lucy said.

I slowly did and found her grinning wickedly at me. “There’s two things a woman needs during stormy weather: moonshine and a hot man in her bed.” She winked. Then she plopped down in the recliner and took a drag of her cigarette.

For all the redneck bluster, Lucy’s house was very tidy and overpowering the cigarette smoke was the strong scent of lavender that came from one of those plug-in air fresheners I saw sticking out of an outlet next to the door.

I remained standing. “Lucy, this is important. Do you know where John is? He isn’t answering his cell phone and he’s not at home. I didn’t see his dog, Daisy, there either. She usually barks up a storm whenever I pull in.”

Lucy’s face scrunched. “Is this about your damn romance with my nephew, Sadie? Cause I could care less about your love life, even if it involves one of my kin. It’s bad enough that your kid is hooking up with my other nephew, Crow.”

“They are not hooking up!” My heart started pounding all over again and I resisted the urge to unzip my jacket when I started to overheat. “They’re dating and only supervised dates at that.”

Lucy’s grin returned. “Well, good to know you’re making sure they keep their pants on. Since you had the kid when you were just a hot mess of a teen yourself, you know how quickly dicks can come out—”

“Stop it!” I really hated this woman. “I’m not here to have you rattle my nerves. John is in real danger.”

She cocked her head. “How’s that?”

I let out a harsh breath and placed my hands on my hips. “There’s been four murders in Possum Gap in just a couple of days. A man named Jorah Blevins shot and killed his wife when he lost his mind, accusing her of having multiple affairs. That same night, his ten-year-old son ended up shot to death as well. We’re still not sure if it was intentional or a stray bullet. There’s no doubt his next victims were deliberate. He went to Chester Nowalk’s house and shot him dead, then he ventured to my ex-husband’s home.” I paused now that I had Lucy’s full attention.

She leaned forward with knitted brows and a tight frown. “Go on.”

“Jorah shot my ex and his girlfriend—”

“Sandra—the bouncy blonde from the rec center in Possum Gap?”

“That’s her.”

Lucy snorted, leaning back. “That one was a skank. About eight years ago, she tried to pick up my man at the Saloon one night. All I can say is she’s a fast runner, even in heels.” She rubbed her cheek. “So, your ex and Sandra are both dead?”

“Sandra is. When I left Possum Gap a couple of hours ago, Ted was still alive.”

Lucy nodded. “What does this all have to do with John? Other than his obsession with you, he hasn’t shown interest in a lady for a couple of years or so.”

Obsession? The word stuck in my mind and then I buried it. “Has he been having pain in his shoulder?”

“Yeah. Ever since that tree came down on him when you all were hunting down crazy Collie Crane, he’s been complaining about it.”

I felt a little annoyed that he hadn’t mentioned it to me, but then I reminded myself that I was the one who had avoided him for months. “Well, he gave the dead woman some honey for her son’s constant bouts of sickness and that’s what put a target on John’s head.”

“Let me guess, the kid’s mother was the physical therapist he was going to?”

I was glad that Lucy had a quick mind. It definitely helped in situations like this.

“Since Jorah methodically hunted down and shot to kill the other two men who had interactions with Meredith—Jorah’s wife—recently, I’m concerned that he’ll go after John next.” My gaze drifted to the window. It was steamed up and I couldn’t see anything except darkness past the glass. “I suppose with this awful weather, Jorah is likely laying low until the storm breaks. I understand you all are well-equipped to protect your own, but I just wanted to warn John to be on the look out for Jorah if he comes around.”

Lucy stood up. She crossed the room to the pegs where coats and coveralls were hung. Right below them were several pairs of boots. My breathing slowed as I watched Lucy yank a pair of overalls off the peg and step into them.

“Where are you going?” I moved closer.

“Tell me about Jorah. What does he look like?” She zipped up the coveralls and put on a thick camouflage coat.

I thought back to the last time I saw him in person several years ago and also in the recent pictures Meredith’s family had provided us. “Six feet tall, brown hair, brown eyes, tannish complexion even in the autumn. Square jaw and physical fit. Polite and articulate. The type of fellow you wouldn’t think was a spree killer.”

“I see.” She put on a stocking hat.

“You didn’t answer me, Lucy. Where are you going?”

She pulled off a second set of coveralls and coat—both tan—and tossed them to me. “Besides you being short, we’re about the same size. Put those on.” She eyed my boots. “I guess those’ll do.”

My heart leaped into my throat. “Is John in the hollow?”

Lucy shook her head as she moved to the gun cabinet. It wasn’t locked. She picked out a semi-automatic rifle with a strap attached to it and a 9MM, which she stuck into one of her inside pockets. “About an hour ago, a guy drove into the holler. I was at Winnie Toadvine’s trailer. It’s the first one you pass on the way in. She’s dating one of my fool brothers and he ain’t easy to live with, you know what I mean.”

I didn’t respond, and she continued talking while gathering items from around the room, like a flashlight and a rope.

“Anyway, I was talking sense into Winnie when this guy drove up in a black Jeep—”

“A Jeep? Jorah drives a newer model pickup truck.”

“Let me tell my damn story!” Her mouth twisted. “Don’t you think a murderer might swap out vehicles along the way if they didn’t want to be noticed?”

I nodded vigorously, slipping the coveralls over my pants and zipping them up. “Of course. Please continue.”

“He said his name was Harry Varnon and that he went to college with John. I told him to get lost. That John lives closer into town and not in the holler and he said he’d already stopped by his place, so he knew he wasn’t there.”

“Lucy, tell me you didn’t give that man directions to wherever John is.”

“Then I’d be lying because I did just that. He seemed like the kind of dude that John would hang out with. He started talking about how healthy the sycamore trees were in the holler and mentioned he’d seen a pileated woodpecker on his way up the lane.” She shrugged, finally putting out the butt of the cigarette in an ashtray on the coffee table. “I told him he was a fool for going out when a storm was ‘bout to hit, but he damn-well laughed and bragged that’s why he drove a Jeep.”

With a racing heart, I put on the coat and picked up my shotgun from where I set it against the wall near the door. “You still haven’t told me where John is.”

“We have a little hunting cabin on the southside of Dover lands, right next to the junction of the Puissant and Straight Rivers.” Lucy raised her voice, looking down the hallway. “Cash, it’s gonna be a while. Take a nap or watch TV.”

“Why is John there?” I followed Lucy right out the front door. The pounding cold air after the warmth of the doublewide was a shock to my system.

“He’s collecting ginseng and black cohosh for my winter stash.” Instead of going to one of her ATVs, she turned the corner of the doublewide and walked through the carport. We came out the other side and she kept on walking. “Because it’s quite a hike and with the incoming foul weather, he packed overnight supplies. The plan was that I was going to fix up a late breakfast of gravy and biscuits in the morning when he hiked back through.”

“Is he alone?” My heartrate had calmed now that I was moving again. I was glad for the sudden exertion of energy that kept my body and mind working together.

The air puffed out of my mouth, but the trees afforded us some protection from the wind. When we started down a steep trail, I had to grab onto saplings and use exposed roots to catch my boots to keep from falling. Even if a layer of ice wasn’t forming on the ground as the temperatures dropped, I would have had difficulty navigating the narrow decent in the dark.

Lucy moved quickly over the rough terrain like a mountain goat, never missing a step.

“He’s alone. That is until that creep shows up.”

My lungs started to hurt with the pace Lucy was setting. “John won’t be expecting anything, and Jorah will kill him. There’s no way we’ll get to him before Jorah does.”

“There’s a way. It won’t be pleasant, but shaves maybe sixty minutes off the trip by the gravel lane and all its switch backs.”

“I don’t understand.” I spoke to Lucy’s back because she wasn’t slowing down to look at me.

“You will.”

Images of John’s handsome face clouded my vision. I could almost feel the pressure of his lips on mine from our last kiss. Kissing is all we’d ever done, and I reckoned, only two of those times even counted as a kiss. We’d never gone on a date or spent a holiday together. Our interactions had mostly revolved around mad dashes through the woods to stop the bad guys or to save someone. Saying that whatever relationship we actually had started under duress and stayed that way was an accurate statement. Where Russo was outgoing and totally a modern man, John was an introvert who enjoyed being alone, hiking with his dog, and caring for his apiary. He wasn’t the typical Dover. John had gone to college and was very well-read. He didn’t own a TV and grew or hunted everything he consumed.

The chemistry between John and me had been instant, but I’d dragged my feet because he was a dreaded Dover man, and now he was likely dead—another one of Jorah Blevins’ victims.

My heart hurt with the thought that whatever might have been was likely cut short before it ever really began. I’d never been lucky in the romance department. Russo probably wouldn’t return, and now with my ex-husband’s and a possible love interest’s lives in the balance, I thought I was downright cursed.

I heard the deafening roar before I saw the white foam and raging current of the swollen river. The trees around us thinned until they were gone, ending at a rocky drop-off that Lucy leaped down easily. I slid onto my butt, passing through the gap between several boulders a lot less gracefully than the hillwoman had.

The air was thick with moisture from the spray of the river and heavy sleet pouring from the sky. I blinked, awed by the raw, untamed section of the Straight River, which was anything but straight. Grandpa had told me when I was a kid that it was called that by hill folk as a joke to unsuspecting newcomers who would then be shocked at the churning and meandering river.

Lucy had vanished and I whirled, looking for her. When I finally reached the Dover leader, I sucked in a sharp breath.

“Are you serious?”

“Damn straight, I am. Get your ass over here and help me put this canoe in the river.”

I didn’t hesitate because I realized Lucy was grasping at the only straw that might get us to John quicker than Jorah.

The fact that it would be a miracle if we didn’t drown wasn’t lost on me, but there was no way I would let Lucy know I was afraid.

24

Or maybe it’s Lucy’s way of getting rid of me and calling it an accident?

She turned the canoe over without my help and threw the paddles inside. “Grab the other side,” she ordered.

I did as I was told since I was on her turf and besides, kayaking on calm waters in my childhood was my only experience. The wooden canoe was extremely heavy and without any logo and the smooth, thick feeling of the wood, I guessed it to be handmade.

A flake landed on my nose and I glanced up. “It’s snowing!”

“No shit! Get ready!” She strode into the river. “Drop it and push, Sadie!”

When I let go, Lucy climbed into the canoe. There was no way for me to get on without soaking my boots. I held my breath, dipped my chin, and in the smoothest maneuver I could muster in two layers of thick clothing, I swung my leg over the edge and jumped in. The canoe wobbled, but Lucy’s expert handling of one of the paddles on the riverbed kept us from turning over.

With large snowflakes blowing into our faces, Lucy let out a shout that resembled the fierce cry of a bobcat, then she passed the second paddle back to me.

“Don’t stop paddling! No matter what happens, keep going forward!”

Wild red hair stuck out from under Lucy’s green hat. When she tilted her head sideways, I saw her red cheeks and nose. Lucy’s lips pinched tightly together and with a powerful swipe, and before I had time to think, we streaked further into the river.

Lucy set the course, and I paddled my heart out. She caught most of the waves that splashed over the canoe’s bow, but enough water sloshed back on me that I soon couldn’t feel my toes or my fingers inside the gloves. Warm air streaked out of my mouth with every ragged breath I took. Within seconds we were coasting down the river at incredible speed.

I bit my tongue when we suddenly dipped, and the bow disappeared into the rapids.

“Oh, shit!” I remembered Lucy’s instructions and paddled harder.

The canoe righted itself and once again was skimming through the waves. I was barely breathing, and it felt like my heart would explode out of my chest.

Without turning around, Lucy said in a loud voice that cut through the falling snow, “I believe that’s the first time I ever heard you cuss.”

I pursed my mouth, trying to ignore the pricking air blasting my face. “If that happens again, it won’t be the last time you hear me cussing.”

Lucy laughed in a hearty way, like we weren’t about to die. Her confidence gave me hope that we might not end up in the icy waters.

“You must be really sweet on my nephew to go through all this to save him,” she barked out.

My arms began to hurt from the paddling. They weren’t used to the hard, repetitious movements. “He’s a citizen in my jurisdiction. Of course, I’ll do whatever I can to save him.” I sneezed and dipped my face into the shoulder of my coat to wipe my nose. “I trust that you don’t want to die and wouldn’t have chosen this method of traversing the river if it wasn’t doable.”

“I do shit like this all the time. If it’s my day to die, then so be it. Someone will take over leadership in the holler, probably my cousin, Darla, but you have a kid who might be an orphan by morning if both you and her daddy croak.”

I frowned at Lucy’s back. Somehow, I’d let the adrenaline rush of the last few days cloud my judgment regarding Lucy Dover. She was just as mean and crazy as ever. The only difference was that I needed her help if there was any chance of saving John.

“Oh, I’ll likely die on one of my trips to Jewelweed Hollow, but not this time.”

“There’s the spirt!” Lucy stopped paddling. “Now listen up! We’re about to run this canoe through Dead Man’s Pass. It’s where the river narrows and falls—”

“Falls?” I squeaked, hardly noticing the trees that we whizzed past.

“Sadie Mills, you listen up! You’ve got this. Just don’t stop paddling. When we clear the other side, I’ll guide the canoe into a hard left. Normally it’s not a big deal to make it to the beach landing, but the way the water is up high, it’s gonna be a hairy turn.”

She didn’t see me nodding behind her. “Keep your boots hooked under that lip or you’ll get washed out for sure. I’ll already be too far ahead to pull you out. If hitting the rocks doesn’t kill you, hypothermia will get ya mighty quick.”

I wished she would just shut up. Inhaling deeply, I tilted my head back. Snow fell on my face and the tree branches swaying over us resembled old ladies’ arthritic fingers. I’d gotten used to the constant roaring of the river in my ears and the pounding of the wind in my face. My arms and shoulders screamed silently in pain and my lips were so cracked that when I licked them, I tasted the metallic sweetness of blood.

Craning my neck, I saw boulders straight ahead. Instead of trembling with fear, my entire body suddenly felt stronger and calmer. It might have been the adrenaline rush or perhaps it was focusing on Chloe and Tanya that settled my soul. If I lost my life on this river, they had each other. Russo was a fleeting thought.

What will he say when he eventually hears that a person didn’t end me? Mother Nature had that honor.

“It’s coming!” Lucy shouted, but her voice was snatched away by the wind.

Swallowing the fire in my throat, I bent my head, using Lucy as a shield. And then I prayed to God to safely guide us back to shore.

Something deep down urged me to peek around Lucy’s shoulder. I shouldn’t have.

The churning, foamy whitewater funneled between large boulders in a passage over ledges at a sharp downward angle.

The deep roar of the angry river rose to such a deafening pitch that it hurt my ears and vibrated my entire body, breaking my spirit.

There’s no way we can survive that…

25

The spray, foam, and Lucy’s back kept me from seeing everything until the canoe dipped, then dropped. Rocks jutted out of the churning water around us, and it occurred to me in a flashing thought that the canoe could break apart. Waves sloshed over the edge with the jarring motions, and Lucy’s heavy grunting noises only worsened my sudden panic.

Caught in a tunnel of sorts, we bounced forward and rocked back and forth violently. After catching the initial wave in my lap, I was drenched and numb to the bone. I couldn’t dwell on the prickling pain I felt all over because the next time a wave hit us, I dropped the paddle into the foam. It caught on the rocks and was ripped from my hands.

I searched over my shoulder to see the rapids we’d just passed through, and in the midst of violent waves and foam, I couldn’t see the paddle.

“I lost my paddle!” I shouted.

Lucy ignored me. “Hold onto me! We’re about to hit the worst part!”

We haven’t yet?

I grabbed Lucy’s slender form and pressed my forehead into her canvas coat.

This is it. We’re going to die.

In a moment, I would be fighting for my life in the icy water. If I didn’t immediately get slammed into submerged boulders, I would have to make it to shore before hypothermia set in and made it impossible to move my limbs. If I didn’t act quickly, I would surely drown.

A picture of Chloe frowning at me stuck in my mind. I prayed she’d forgive me for being so impulsive to jump into a canoe on a raging river with Lucy Dover.

Lucy belted out another battle scream and I squeezed my eyes tightly shut, gripping her harder. For a few long, breathless seconds, the canoe was vertical, and I opened my eyes to catch a stunning view of the forest and cliffs looming over us on each side. I also saw the hunting cabin. It was a tiny, square structure nestled in a stand of hemlocks halfway up a steep, rocky slope on our left side.

We leaned back until Lucy was lying on top of me and the only thing to look at were the dark, snow-spitting clouds.

It happened too fast to think or even be as afraid as I should have been. The canoe righted itself after the bow came out of the waves. Lucy sat up and began paddling hard on the right side. She grunted and gasped but didn’t stop.

A pebble-covered beach below the cabin was her destination and I thought we were going to make it when we became caught in a spiral. The river dropped in a place where the water rolled from all directions into a hole, stopping our momentum.

“Oh, fuck!” Lucy exclaimed.

I was helpless without a paddle, but Lucy reached out further, trying to clear the whitewater with her paddle. She gambled on her strength and gravity and lost.

Lucy tumbled forward into the river. I was faster than I ever imagined I could be and hooked my hands into the collar of her coat, pulling her back to the canoe with every bit of my weight. I didn’t let go until her hips cleared the edge. Our bodies dropping back shifted the bow, turning it. When that happened, we were suddenly free of the hole and racing past the beach.

Lucy had held onto the paddle through it all and immediately started paddling toward the shore. The canoe found calmer waters and suddenly, the sound of rapids diminished, and the sloshing waves lessened. Lucy pitched out of one side into knee-deep water. Holding onto the canoe, she trudged forward.

I wasted no time and was just a few heartbeats behind her in clearing the side of the canoe. Together, we heaved it onto the shore. I bent over, coughed and fought to catch my breath. Lucy recovered much quicker. She leaned into the canoe and pulled out her rifle. Lifting my head, I watched her empty the barrel, shaking out the excess water and then put in fresh ammunition that she pulled out of an inside pocket of her coat.

“Thanks for the quick thinking back there.” Her voice was steady, yet soft. “Of course, you would have been a goner if I went overboard, so I guess your survival instincts are in good shape, Sadie.”

I mimicked her actions, grabbing my shotgun, only I knew that the amount of water spray it caught wouldn’t be enough to hinder its usefulness. My handgun was still strapped beneath my coat. I scanned our surroundings. With eyes that had already become accustomed to the darkness, I could make out the edges of the rocks but was extremely grateful when the clouds split just enough to allow a spray of moonlight through, illuminating the hillside.

“Help me hide the canoe.” I started tugging it and it didn’t budge much until Lucy joined in.

Once we had it behind a boulder, I darted to the nearest tree as fast as I could in damp pants and soggy boots. The adrenaline rush eased the painful feeling of freezing. Snow fell faster, starting to blanket the ice-covered grass and the bare tree branches. My lungs burned like they were about to burst while I jogged over the steep terrain.

Being below the cabin, I couldn’t see if the Jeep was parked on the other side. Smoke drifted out of the chimney and I inhaled the deeply familiar scent of burning wood. It was a nostalgic and pleasant aroma. It also told me that John or someone else was indeed staying in the cabin.

Did we make it before Jorah?

It was impossible to tell. Our trip, although rough and terrifying, went very quickly, around fifteen minutes, I’d guess. We’d cut several miles off by taking the direct route of the river over the meandering gravel lane. But we’d left a while after Jorah had, so I wasn’t taking any chances and assumed he’d beaten us.

Lucy didn’t seem concerned. She walked in the wide-open, straight up the open hillside that was covered with jagged rocks and clumps of tall grass. Her rifle was firmly in her hands, and she moved with deliberate ease while my breathing was still haggard.

I wanted to call out to her but was afraid to give myself away. Stealth was the best option in this case, although Lucy seemed to think the opposite, or she was just that confident that we’d arrived before Jorah.

Boom. Boom.

Lucy fell backwards, but my gaze quickly returned to the top of the hill. I saw a flash of metal and started sprinting between the trees when I caught movement from the corner of my eye. Lucy pushed off the ground and ran to the nearest tree on the other side of the clearing.

I revealed my presence and began firing at the spot where Jorah had just been to provide Lucy with cover. Bullets started flying in my direction and I ducked behind the tree. Lucy made it to the cover of the trees, but I had no idea where John was or if he was even alive.

Unsure how badly Lucy was injured, my first priority was to incapacitate Jorah. Using the trees as a natural shield, I raced up the slope until I was within hearing distance.

I paused behind a thick poplar tree. “Jorah Blevins, this is the sheriff. Drop your weapon!”

I didn’t hear anything and then I jerked my hand back when I touched something wet.

Daisy!

The hound panted happily at discovering me. I rubbed her head while I searched the nearby woods, looking for John. My heart sank when I didn’t see him.

“Stay, girl,” I muttered. Glancing over my shoulder, I was amazed that she actually stayed put.

The sound of the Jeep’s engine revving lit a fire under my butt. Judging the distance to the lane, I took off at an angle. I broke from the tree line just as the Jeep sped by.

There was no time to do anything except aim and fire. And that’s what I did, striking the passenger window, it shattered. The vehicle veered off the lane, crushing saplings and bushes before smashing into a large cedar tree. The Jeep was knocked sideways and reaching a steep incline, it rolled a couple of times until a giant oak caught it with a sickening crunch. Steam sprayed into the air from the popped hood.

Dodging roots and rocks, I jogged down the hill. I kept my gun out and ready to fire.

The door swung open, and Jorah fell out just as I reached him. His forehead was bleeding, and his movements were wobbly as if he were drunk.

“Raise your hands and step away from the vehicle!” I shouted.

Our eyes met. He blinked right before he reached back into the truck. I took the shot, striking his leg.

Jorah fell to the ground without his gun in his hand. I slowly approached him as he clutched his leg, moaning.

“Next time, it’s going to be your head with a bullet hole in it,” I said.

Jorah leaned back and snow fell onto his face. He wore camouflage coveralls and a black knit hat. Icicles clung to his beard, indicating that he’d been outside for a while.

My heart beating faster, I asked, “Did you kill John Dover?”

I was standing over him when he smiled, flashing white teeth. “Everyone deserved what they got. Even Meredith. The whore.”

Narrowing my gaze on the man, I wondered why he didn’t answer the question. Was it because he had succeeded in taking down his last victim and that’s why Daisy was in the woods alone?

“Did your son deserve to die?”

Jorah started to sit up and I aimed the gun at his head. “Don’t move!”

“Cory? Is dead?”

Answering the question that plagued me ever since finding the boy’s body in the treehouse, I felt some relief that at least this horrible man didn’t intentionally kill his child.

“The night you shot your wife. Cory was watching from inside the treehouse. Why did you shoot into it?”

Jorah’s mouth dropped open and he closed his eyes. “My foot caught on the hose that Meredith hadn’t rolled up the last time she’d used it.” He took a shuddering breath. “I was about to end her and when I stumbled backwards, I accidentally fired twice.”

I pictured it in my head and knew that Russo would have figured it out from the forensics of the angle of the bullet striking Meredith that it had been fired from a falling position rather than a standing one. The action had been too quick on the video to see the exact instant when she was struck by the bullet.

“Your stray bullet caught Cory between the eyes, killing him.”

Jorah fell back into the slush and leaves. The forest was quieter up here away from the river in the falling snow.

“No, no, no, no. I didn’t mean to kill him. Just Meredith and all her men.”

“Meredith didn’t have any other men, you delusional piece of crap! She was a good wife and mother. You dreamed it up in your sick mind and now, not only is she and your son dead, but so is a teacher and the recreation center’s manager. My ex-husband is fighting for his life, and you haven’t told me if John Dover should be added to your long list of victims.”

“I’m okay, Sadie!”

I took a deep breath when I heard the voice and before I glanced over my shoulder.

John came out of the woods, bracing Lucy with his arm. He grinned while she scowled. I had a hard time remembering when I’d been so happy to see a couple of people up and walking around and they were Dovers at that.

“That son of a bitch got me real good in the shoulder, but I reckon I’ll live,” Lucy said through gritted teeth.

Daisy trotted behind John and his aunt, looking mighty pleased with herself.

When they stopped next to me, John asked, “How was the vacation with your boyfriend?”

His brown hair was pulled back in a ponytail, and he wasn’t wearing a hat. Snow landed and melted quickly on his head and lingered on his green canvas jacket. There was a shock of orange from a hoodie beneath it and I noticed how he hadn’t shaved in a while. The corner of his mouth twitched as his gaze locked on mine.

I was too relieved that he was alive to care too much about the verbal jab. John cared enough about me to be jealous and that meant something but I ignored his question and asked one of my own instead.

“Do you have an ATV up here?”

John shook his head, keeping his lips pressed tightly together.

“Okay.” I glanced at Jorah on the ground and the Jeep that was totaled. “You’re going to have to hike down the lane back to the hollow and come back with reinforcements and vehicles. We need to get this man off the mountain and into town.” I glanced down the hill. “There’s no way I’m getting back in that canoe.”

“You ain’t the boss here, Sadie Mills,” Lucy said with a scrunched mouth. The strap of her rifle hung over her good shoulder and she held a bloody cloth to her bullet wound.

“You need medical attention. If there’s a better plan, I’m ready to hear it.”

A glance passed between John and Lucy. I saw her give him a slight nod.

Before I knew what was happening, she dropped her arm and John picked up the rifle before it hit the ground.

He fired twice at Jorah. The first bullet hit his heart and the second pierced his skull. The murderer died quickly.

I spun towards John. “Why did you do that? He was disabled. I would have returned to town with him to face justice.”

Now Lucy was smiling, while John remained stoic and silent.

Lucy thrust her good arm at Jorah. “That is justice! We just saved the taxpayers in Possum Gap from unnecessary expense.” She pulled out a pack of cigarettes from her pocket and seeing them drenched, she stuffed them back in. “You should be thanking us!”

Anger chased the chill away. My face heated and I drew in a sharp breath. “This man killed townsfolk. It wasn’t your place to decide his fate.”

“He’s on Dover land to kill one of ours and he got a shot in on me,” Lucy said in a low voice. “It sure as hell is our place to be his judge and executioner.”

“How am I supposed to explain this to the world? Have you thought about that? He’s been executed!”

Without a word passing between John and Lucy, he handed her the gun and grabbed Jorah underneath his arms. In a rough motion with a loud grunt, John shoved the man back into the car.

Understanding hit me like a splash of cold water on my face. I stepped forward. “Oh, no you’re not!”

Lucy turned the rifle on me. Even with a bum arm, she held it steady. “Step back, Sheriff, or you can join the douchebag.”

After traveling the fierce river together to save John and me, saving her life when she almost fell out of the canoe, she was now aiming a gun at me? Yeah, she probably won’t even bat an eye when she fired. The part that bugged me the most was that John might just let her do it.

I searched his hard gaze and found no sympathy there. He walked back to Lucy, and they retreated several yards while I stood motionless.

“I suggest you step back,” Lucy said. Her expression was neutral, like she didn’t really care what I did.

A vision of me firing at the Dover woman flashed before my eyes, but then I saw John shake his head at me in warning.

I was once again at the mercy of criminals, doing their twisted things while feeling that they had the moral high road. It reminded me of what had gone down in Mexico with Russo, his crime family, and the cartel.

Having a shootout with Lucy wasn’t in the cards today. I had survived Mexico, the river, and Jorah Blevins. The promise I’d made to Chloe about Thanksgiving was in sight, and considering her dad might be dead by now, I couldn’t possibly leave her an orphan to win this argument with Lucy Dover.

I stepped back and Lucy raised the rifle. She was an expert marksman, and it was easy for her to put a bullet into the gas tank.

We were too far from civilization for the explosion to be heard by anyone other than the three of us and possibly a random Dover out turkey hunting in an ice storm.

Flames shot into the treetops, and I guessed several of the trees would burn along with the Jeep. But with increasing snowfall and already icy wet conditions, I knew the fire wouldn’t spread far.

“I’m going to the cabin to get a hold of the first aid kit. I’d like to bandage this before making the trek down to the holler.” Lucy paused. “Are you coming, John?”

He didn’t look at her. Instead, John only had eyes for me.

“Go on ahead. I’ll be there in minute.”

“Suit yourself.” She glanced at me before starting back up the hill.

Daisy shot over to John, then returned to me. I patted her damp head absently while I stared at the burning Jeep.

“I don’t even know who owns this vehicle,” I muttered.

“I’m sure they have insurance,” John said lightly.

I was too upset to look at him. “I see you’ve officially gone over to the Dover dark side.”

“Sadie, I appreciate you riding the river with Lucy to rescue me, but the minute I heard an engine on the lane, I took up a hidden position and kept an eye on him. This Jorah Blevins dude was never getting the best of me.” He snorted. “Seriously, I thought you’d expect more of my abilities in the woods.”

I glanced over at John, feeling the heat from the blaze on the side of my face. “He was a survivalist, and he’d managed to murder a few people without hardly trying. Once I knew you were marked, of course I was worried.”

The wind changed and a plume of smoke engulfed me. I started coughing and John grasped my arm, guiding me further away from the burning vehicle and to the side away from the gusts, but the wind direction altered again, and we had to keep moving.

“You know, smoke is supposed to follow beauty,” John said.

I jerked my arm away from him and then shoved his chest. He didn’t move much.

“You’re sick, John! You and you aunt and the rest of the Dovers are all complete wackos!”

He didn’t look away. “I thought you knew that about us and that’s why you wouldn’t go on a date with me.”

My mouth dropped open and I ignored the smoke, snow, and my wet clothes, feeling my head throb. “Are you insane? Seriously?”

“Uh, you’re the sheriff who just stood there and watched my aunt light up a vehicle with a body of a man I just killed in it. And I’m insane? Seems like you’re not doing your job very well, Sheriff.”

John licked his lips. His passive look turned into a smug one that I wanted to slap off his face. But I didn’t hit people—or at least I didn’t unless it was a life-or-death situation.

“Is that what you want? For me to go after you and your aunt by filing charges?” Before he could answer, I plowed on. “As it is, I’m going to have to be creative to explain this all away. It’s not just my department involved, the Kentucky State Police will follow up on a case involving multiple fatalities and a spree killer. There’s no way I can keep you and your kin out of it—”

“You came up her on your own after a tip that the jerk was hiding in one of our hunting cabins. I’d be willing to be named the concerned citizen who called you.” I started to interrupt, but he held up his hand. “When you finally hiked all the way up here because your cruiser wouldn’t go any further—that’s pretty plausible since Lucy already filled me in that it’s off the driveway back in the holler—your killer tried to run you over.” He made a shooting gesture with his hand. “You shot, hit him, and his car went over the embankment, struck a very nice oak tree, which is the biggest shame in this sordid story, and caught fire. There’s no evidence because the vehicle burned up. So your word is all there is, and with the solid reputation you have, no one will argue about it. Especially since that jerk killed well-liked Possum Gap citizens, right? And even his kid, I heard?”

“How did you come up with all of that so quickly?” I was equally repulsed and impressed.

He shrugged. “I spend a lot of time alone in the woods with my thoughts. I’m not as dumb as you think.”

“I never said you were dumb—”

“But I’m not as smart as your boyfriend, eh?”

I didn’t like the way his mouth twisted. Even if Russo was my boyfriend, which he most definitely was not, this wasn’t the time to talk about it. I caught the whiff of what smelled like grilling meat in the smoke and felt like throwing up. I covered my mouth and stepped away and then began shivering. The ordeal of the river had finally taken its toll.

John reached out and I shrugged him off and started walking down the lane. He caught up and I glanced at him without slowing.

“Actually, you’re one of the smartest and most interesting people I know, John. None of that matters now, though.”

He fell in next to me. “Why’s that?”

“Because I don’t date men who kill in the name of vigilante justice.” My breath streamed out in front of me, and I was thankful for the crunching snow beneath my boots. It created traction so that I didn’t fall while giving John a piece of my mind. “I thought you were different than the rest of your kin, but you’re one hundred percent Dover. If nothing else, today proved that.”

John stopped walking and I fought the urge to look back.

“Yeah, and you still nearly got yourself killed trying to save my ass.” He raised his voice as the distance between us grew. “What does that mean, Sadie?”

“That I’m an idiot!”

John laughed. “Daisy, go with Sadie and see her down to the holler. I have to help Aunt Lucy. Go on!”

Remarkably, Daisy suddenly appeared at my side. I dropped my hand and touched her head. “That man doesn’t deserve such a good dog,” I told Daisy.

“I’m sure I’ll see you in the coming days, Sadie Mills, but if not before the holiday, I wish you a Happy Thanksgiving! I’m thankful for you every day, even if I don’t live up to your very high standards!”

I grunted loudly and kept on walking with Daisy at my side. High standards? Is it too much to want a relationship with a man who would think twice before ending another person’s life or wasn’t part of a crime family?

I guess it was, considering the only men that had shown the grit to ask me out in the last few years checked both of those unsavory boxes.

26

Buddy had braved the icy, snow-covered roads in his friend’s tow truck to meet me at Jewelweed Hollow to pull my cruiser out of the ditch. We left it parked out of the Dovers’ way, but it was accessible when the ice melted. I’d have to return with one of the state officers to show him what I was lying about. I didn’t say much to Buddy because there was no reason to get him dragged down to the level I’d sunk to. Sure, he’d go there in a heartbeat, but I wasn’t having it. I practiced the story that John had recited, and Buddy pretended to believe me. When we arrived at the Possum Gap Regional Hospital, he went the extra mile by meeting Ted’s parents and shuffling them away from the room so I could sneak in.

And here I was, standing just inside the doorway to his dimly lit room so he could sleep. Buddy had filled me in that Ted was now expected to make a full recovery after a successful surgery that stopped the bleeding in his stomach. Soft beeps and humming came from the monitors hooked up to Ted’s arms. His face was pale and his cheeks were hollow, but he was alive. I figured that it wouldn’t take long for him to get back to being a vibrant man again.

Ted had a room to himself and there was a lamppost beyond the large window. I watched snow float around the light for a moment, gathering my thoughts. My feet were still wet. I wore one of Buddy’s giant flannel shirts, but otherwise, I was no worse for wear. I assumed Lucy was fine as well. There were Dovers who knew how to doctor gunshot wounds, and the clan kept painkillers and antibiotics on hand for such occasions. A Dover rarely ended up in the hospital unless they were in jeopardy of dying. Then, they’d leave their business to the trained professionals. Or, in the case of John, the constant pain that kept him from hiking his beloved woods might compel one to seek medical assistance.

Judging by the gentle, straight line of the falling snow, I could safely say the storm had passed out of our area and by morning, the clouds would start breaking. Salt trucks and plows should have the roads cleared by midday, making travel possible for everyone heading to their relatives’ homes to celebrate my favorite holiday of the year.

It wasn’t the turkey, stuffing, or pumpkin pie that gave it that title, although Tanya always made sure the spread was beyond delicious. Sure, I enjoyed watching the football games and playing the inevitable board games that came out. Those things were splendid, but the part that made me look forward to the holiday more than Christmas, Easter or Halloween, was that I got to spend an entire day with the people I loved.

Between Mexico, a raging river, and a spree killer, I could have very easily missed it this year. But I didn’t. My love life sucked, my daughter was still upset with me, and I might be listing the coroner position, but at least I was alive to trudge onward. I was grateful for that.

“Sadie, is that you?” Ted’s voice came out weak, and he tried to lift his head up to see better.

I rushed to his side. “Don’t move. You’re pulling on the cords.”

“You really came to see me?”

I rolled my eyes. “Why wouldn’t I? We spent some years together and you’re the father of my only kid. It seemed like the right thing to do, but I can leave if you want—”

“No, stay, Sadie.” He cleared his throat. “I’m glad you’re here.”

“Do you want me to turn on the light?” I started to let go of the bed rail and he put his hand over mine to stop me.

“No, the bright lights hurt my eyes.” He took a breath. “Are you okay? Mom told me something about you finding and killing Jorah. I was kind of out of it from the pain meds at the time, so I might have gotten that wrong.”

“It’s true.” I hated lying, even to Ted, but I was committed to going along with John’s story. At least I knew he and Lucy were on board with the fabrication and hopefully, I could close the case quickly. Jorah deserved what he got, even though it didn’t go the way I planned.

“Thank you for that.” Ted sighed, then met my gaze. “I can’t believe Sandra’s gone.” He gave his head a gentle shake. “She didn’t deserve that.”

I grunted and leaned into the hospital bed, wondering why I wasn’t tired yet. “Neither did Chester, Meredith, and especially Cory. Life isn’t fair half the time.”

“I was going to ask her to marry me this Christmas, Sadie. I bought the ring and everything.”

That news surprised me. “Really? I didn’t think you had it in you to commit again after our disaster of a marriage.”

“It wasn’t a complete disaster.” Ted tried to touch my hand again, and I stepped back from the bed. “We made Chloe.”

“That happened before the marriage part, Ted. Or did you forget that because of the meds?” I saw his face fall and instantly wanted to kick myself in the behind. I was not a mean person even though Ted sometimes brought meanness out in me. “I’m sorry about Sandra, Ted. Let me know if you need anything—”

“I need you and Chloe.”

“Ah—”

“Please, just help me get through this, Sadie, that’s all I ask.”

I felt defeated on so many levels. I’d failed the pledge I’d taken to uphold my integrity, character, and public trust. Being nice to Ted shouldn’t be too hard and maybe I’d earn some brownie points from the universe for my poor choices lately. And how could I say no? His almost-fiancé had been shot to death in front of him.

“Sure, Ted. We’ll be there for you. Now, get some rest.”

I pivoted and was out the doorway before Ted could say anything else. I really wanted to take a hot shower, curl up in a ball, and sleep for ten hours.

But I didn’t expect to get a night’s rest. Exhaustion might have caught up with my body, but my mind was on overdrive.

Janet and Meredith wrestled for dominance in my head. Occasionally, Russo or John’s face popped up, too.

Really, all I wanted to do was to have a good cry, but I’d have to wait until I was alone in my bed for that.

27

An overflowing cornucopia, pumpkin spice scented candles, shiny silverware, cute dinnerware decorated with autumn leaves, and a burgundy tablecloth brought the dining room to life. Twenty-two chairs that would soon be holding our friends fit around the rectangular wooden table that was too massive for any regular home, but inside Helena House, there was plenty of room to spare surrounding it.

Christmas songs played on the radio and along with quiet chatter in the hallways, the sound of the ballgame on the T.V. in the parlor reached my ears. While half the visitors hustled and bustled to serve the perfect meal that would leave us uncomfortably stuffed within the hour, the rest gathered in the parlor, eating snacks and drinking beer. Alone, I sat on one of the wide, six-foot-tall windowsills in the ballroom, gazing out at the sundrenched, expansive yard.

The snow had already melted everywhere southern facing. Only the dark, shadowed places where the sun didn’t reach were still dusted in white. I could almost smell the earthy dampness of decaying leaves and pine needles through the glass. To me, it was the nicest smell in the world, stirring memories of my childhood, strolling through the woods with Grandpa.

I shifted my gaze to the fountain. Thankfully, Billy Rankin had turned off the water before the cold weather struck. It was supposed to be Russo’s job to manage the elaborate fountain that his mother had donated to the renovation of the antebellum home. But he wasn’t here, so luckily, its installer had been on the ball while everyone else was too busy with preparations for the holiday. Rays of sun broke through puffy clouds, spraying the circular pool and its three-tiered Italian-style fountain with almost heavenly light. At first, I’d complained that it was a ridiculously generous gift, but now, admiring the stone horse heads and elaborate flowers, I couldn’t imagine Helena House without the fountain. It was more than the flashy first statement it made to anyone pulling up to the mansion. The fountain gave us hope that someday the grand structure would be restored to its original state, and we’d welcome guests from all over the world to our diamond in the rough town of Possum Gap. It also gave me something else to think about, rather than tragedies and death.

Some days, Helena House was the motivating factor for dragging myself out of bed in the morning. Even though trouble had struck the estate not long ago, it was my respite from the trials of my dangerous career. Where the past and future collided in a spot surrounded by untouched nature. Sarah and Charles Helena built the mansion and later, constructed tunnels beneath it to hide slaves escaping through the Underground Railroad network to northern states and Canada. This plantation was unique in that Sarah and Charles were kind to their workers and even before Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation, they freed all their slaves and began paying them wages. Most of their workers stayed on, and their descendants still lived in Possum Gap to this day.

Sometimes, I felt the lingering presence of the Helena couple and especially a young maid who lived and died here long ago. They were now part of Helena House in the same way that I might also be one day.

I shivered, thinking how close I’d come to joining the mansion’s ghost population during the past week. My eyes were still puffy and burning from lack of sleep while my arms were sore from paddling, but at least I’d finally warmed back up. Only my head and heart remained troubled.

“Sadie! You have to try these pumpkin cake cookies! It’s a new recipe.”

Jasmine streaked across the giant room. She was pretty and young, with a pert nose and curly, shoulder-length hair that bounced when she talked. Today it was bright red, but the color changed from week to week.

I took one of the frosted, orange-hued cookies from the tray and bit into it. It was like a mouthful of joy. “Definitely add this to your dessert menu.”

Jasmine beamed. “I’m so relieved! Monica insists pumpkin is only for the holidays, but I think these will be gobbled up year round.”

I nodded and snatched another cookie. “Absolutely.”

Jasmine’s smile faded. “Are you okay? You’ve had quite a week.”

Narrowing my gaze at her, I wondered just how much she’d heard. Then I shook my head softly. Possum Gap was a small town. Of course, everyone knew everyone else’s business.

“I’m better than a few other people.”

Jasmine’s eyes widened and her mouth scrunched. “Shew, I can hardly believe Meredith, Sandra, and Chester are gone. Poor Cory. I hope they all went quickly.” She stepped closer and lowered her voice. “They did, right?”

I was just guessing, but easing the sadness that appeared to suddenly suck the life out of normally cheerful Jasmine was my goal. “Yes, I’d say so.”

Her shoulders dropped. “There will be so many funerals next week…”

I nodded, remaining silent.

“At least Ted made it—for Chloe’s sake.” Jasmine’s brows rose while she waited for my response.

“I believe that man has a guardian angel watching over him.”

“Sadie Mills, you are not getting out of helping us in the kitchen!” Tanya shouted from the other side of the ballroom. She gave Chloe a shove towards me. “We’re almost ready to set the table, but I want you for the breaking of the wishbone. Girl, you need the long end more than the rest us these days.”

I loved my best friend, but sometimes I wished she didn’t say everything out loud that popped into her head.

Jasmine gave me a one-armed hug and then hurried away, passing Chloe on the way out.

Chloe’s brown hair was loose on her shoulders and like me, she wore a comfy sweater and denim jeans. The hug she’d given me early that morning when Tanya brought her home was bone-crushing, but we didn’t say much to each other.

“Aunt Tanya mentioned we’re taking a plate of food to Daddy at the hospital later today? Is that true?” The way her arms were crossed tightly around her chest, I got the gist that she wasn’t keen on the idea.

“It’s Tanya’s idea, but probably a nice thing to do. I know he’d like to see you. He just lost the woman he was going to marry.”

“Wait.” Chloe’s freckled face frowned. “They were engaged?”

“Your dad told me last night that he had a ring ready and was going to propose on Christmas.” I wish that I felt more sympathy for Ted, but I couldn’t muster the emotion.

“Whoa. That would have been weird.” She leaned against the windowsill and dropped her gaze to the hardwood floor.

“Chloe, how are you doing?”

She glanced up. “Me? I’m fine.”

“You spent some time with Sandra over the past year and now she’s gone. It’s fine and normal to be sad and confused.”

“I’m neither of those things.” She faced me. “Well, I feel bad that it happened. It seems like a dream, you know?”

“Yes, I do.”

She bit her lower lip and began shifting her weight back and forth between her legs. “So, Russo’s gone for good?”

“I don’t know. We’ll have to wait and see.”

I saw her lips tremble and it made my chest tighten painfully. The fact that possibly losing Russo was more upsetting to Chloe than the death of her father’s girlfriend made me realize that it was likely best for Ray Russo to stay away. Going forward, I’d wait until Chloe was an adult and living on her own before I allowed a romantic interest into my life—and hers. I wouldn’t have my daughter hurt all over again because of my poor choices.

She pushed away from the window. “Crow is coming over tonight after the Dover family have their own Thanksgiving dinner.”

I found it hard to picture Lucy and the rest of the red-haired clan sitting around a dinner table without a brawl breaking out.

“Aren’t there too many of them to fit into any of those trailers or even the doublewide?” I mused out loud.

“They celebrate under the pavilion in the high meadow, at least that’s what Crow told me. It doesn’t matter what the weather is because they have a giant bonfire.” She looked up at me under long lashes. “Maybe next year I can go and see what it’s all about.”

I sighed, silently chastising myself for wishing that they’d break up before then. “We’ll see. That’s a long way off.”

“Sadie!” Tanya shouted again.

Chloe smirked and grabbed my wrist. “You are going to be in so much trouble if you don’t get your butt in gear.”

I let her tug me across the room, wishing the melancholy that had taken hold of my spirit would lift.

Time. It’s going to take time.

We were finally seated and when my stomach rumbled, I realized I was hungrier than I thought. Conversations buzzed around the table and the smell of roasted turkey soothed my troubled mind. Jasmine, Monica, Buddy, and his wife Teresa were seated to my right, while Chloe, Bree, Tanya, Darcy, Logan, and Alice Beaumont were on my other side. Across the table were the Rankin brothers and their wives. Two smaller round tables were set up on each side of the long room to accommodate the dozen or so Rankin kids and even a couple of the grandchildren.

I looked around in awe. I’d never dreamed that Tanya and I would ever host so many guests for a Thanksgiving dinner at Helena House. From the bits of conversations I caught, there were high hopes for making it an annual tradition.

Clinking on a glass turned my head, dragging me from my observations. Tanya stood. She reached around Chloe and patted my shoulder, but I shook my head. I wasn’t ready to give a speech of any kind. Maybe by Christmas I’d feel more like myself and shake the doldrums.

Everyone stopped talking and gazed at Tanya. She was lovely in a yellow dress and suede boots that reached her knees. Her black, shiny hair wasn’t tamed and spread out around her head in a brilliant bushy halo.

She cleared her throat. “Sadie and I are thrilled you all came out to celebrate with us today here at Helena House.” She took a breath, and her smile turned into a frown. “We’ve had quite the time of it in our little town. The ice storm was brutal, but it’s the losses of our friends, Meredith, Cory, Chester, and Sandra that are hard to understand. We’re grateful for Ted’s survival and pray that he continues to heal quickly, and we’re especially thankful for Sadie’s safety. Our sheriff settled business with a killer who doesn’t deserve to have his name said at this good table. But justice was served and that eases the pain a tiny bit.” Tanya paused dramatically and I glanced around the table, discovering everyone’s eyes were on me.

Tanya raised her glass, and our guests followed suit. “Possum Gap is known for its hardy, strong-willed, and resilient citizens. That’s who we are. We’ll get through this time of darkness, just like we always do. Bright days are ahead for our beautiful mountain community. I feel it in my bones. And Helena House is just the beginning of our revival!”

The small crowd rose. Some hooted and hollered and others downed their drinks. Chloe giggled, taking a sip of her Shirley Temple that Monica had prepared specially for everyone under twenty-one. Although, she’d changed the name of the non-alcoholic drink to Renegade Bubbly, much to the youngsters’ delight.

I muttered, “Hear, hear,” before taking a gulp of champagne. Tanya ordered it special for our first big event, but I grimaced, finding the citrus taste a tad too tart for my liking.

Tanya leaned over. “Come on and smile, Sadie. We’re alive and everyone we care about is here.”

“Not everyone,” I said quietly.

“Oh, my friend.” Tanya set down her drink and slipped past Chloe to give me a hug.

I was relieved that she quickly released me. Everyone sat down and Tanya once again shouted over the boisterous banter.

“Are y’all starving or what?”

“Damn straight!” Beau Rankin shouted. His wife smacked his side, while his brothers laughed.

“Then settle down and allow Buddy to say grace. Next stop is the turkey!”

Buddy didn’t enjoy speaking in public, but when it came to praying, the large man was always self-assured.

“Let’s join hands and bow our heads,” he said.

Jasmine’s hand was warm and light in mine, while Chloe’s sweaty one held on too tightly. I ignored the aggressive squeeze and started to drop my head to pray when something caught my eye.

I didn’t hear Buddy’s words because I was too caught up in what I thought might be my imagination at first.

Then the corner of his mouth lifted, and he gave me a nod and I knew I wasn’t losing my mind.

Russo had returned after all, and just in time to share the Thanksgiving feast.

I wasn’t sure if it was a good thing, but I could admit, at least to myself, that having him appear out of nowhere was both a huge relief and a pleasant surprise.

It was one more thing to be thankful for when it seemed evil pressed in from all sides. John wasn’t far from my thoughts, but I wouldn’t let him ruin the moment.

One little prayer had been answered and that was enough to hold me over until the next time calamity struck Possum Gap. Which I prayed would be a long way off, but I definitely wasn’t holding my breath.

Thank you for reading!

If you’re a fan of Serenity’s Plain Secrets, stay tuned for DEADLY DESIGN, which releases in 2025 and SINISTER SUMMER, also coming in 2025! New Possum Gap novels, WICKED WINDS WHISPER and BEWARE OF WENDIGOS, will be released in 2025/2026 as well!

While you’re waiting for these new and thrilling installments, you’ll find more gritty mystery/crime fiction novels in the Possum Gap series and Serenity’s Plain Secrets!

You might also enjoy the author’s young adult Amish-themed tumultuous TEMPTATION series, her young adult epic paranormal WINGS OF WAR series, and standalones—ONE KISS IS ALL IT TAKES and THE FORTUNA COIN.

You can visit Karen Ann Hopkins and see all her books at https://www.karenannhopkinsfiction.com

& Karen Ann Hopkins at Amazon

Facebook: Karen Ann Hopkins Amish Fiction@temptationbook

Twitter: Karen Ann Hopkins@KarenAnnHopkins

Instagram: karenannhopkins

Are you looking for a breathtaking psychological thriller that will keep you flipping the pages for hours past your bedtime? Karen Ann Hopkins’ psychological thriller, THE FORTUNA COIN, won a silver medal in the Readers’ Favorite Suspense Fiction category in 2022 and has received glowing reviews.

Rave Review from Booklife/Publishers Weekly:

“With clear, compelling prose, Hopkins has constructed a seemingly effortless story that weaves together paranormal, fantasy and romance with mind-bending elements of psychological thrillers. Readers will become quickly engrossed in The Fortuna Coin’s richly emotional tale of good luck charms, psychic visions, and premonitions...This urgent, personal thriller combines paranormal and romantic elements as a woman out of time faces an agonizing choice.”

5 Star Readers’ Favorite Review:

“If you’re itching for a well-written, character-driven drama that explores a vital social issue, The Fortuna Coin is the book for you.”

5 Star Readers’ Favorite Review:

“The Fortuna Coin is a very empowering book...This book will surprise you and leave you breathless.”

5 Star Readers’ Favorite Review:

“Karen Ann Hopkins has taken a sensitive subject and created a magical work of fiction.”

5 Star Review from Wine Cellar Library Book Blog:

“It’s been a long time since I’ve read a book that was utterly unputdownable.”