Don’t be an ass. Sure he has. Going to let me see Penn soon?
Me
I’ll have my lawyer call you again.
Elise
I don’t want to go through your lawyer, Reed.
Me
It’s your only option now.
Elise
She’s my daughter! It’s not my only option.
Fuck! This was going south quickly. Without a text back from Lina, I headed out the door. Going to my truck to get my Glock from under the seat instead of my .38 because it concealed better, I clipped it beneath my waistband, covering it with my shirt.
My cell buzzed in my pocket and I pulled it out, reading it as I walked back toward the rodeo grounds.
Lina
Please, Reed. I still need time. You need to fucking give it to me.
Yep, she was still upset and probably drunk. Perfect combination for Lina.
Me
Something’s up at Thornbrush. We don’t have time for this anymore.
Lina
What’s going on?
Me
I don’t know, but Jude called and said they needed to go find some missing cattle. Penn’s with Romy, but they’re the only ones on the ranch right now. This doesn’t feel right to me.
At the same time, Lina’s text came through.
Lina
Fuck! Just tried calling Dad. His phone went straight to voicemail. They must be out of range wherever they are.
Me
Where are you? I’m going to come get you.
Lina
I’m leaving now. I just told Christian.
Me
Don’t leave by yourself. Stay there. I’m coming to get you.
“Fuck,” I cursed, quickening my pace, not wanting her to leave the bar by herself.
