Trent swore. “That would explain why I’m not finding him here.” How had Royer made it that far? “If it is him, now he has the perfect mobile hideout. I’ll get down there?—”
“Not so fast,” Swann said. “We know Royer was working with someone on Brookwell. I need you to find out who’s helping him.”
Because Tommy’s statements wouldn’t be enough to keep Royer locked up. Trent bristled, equally annoyed with Royer and committed to the mission. “Whoever it is knows how to cover their tracks. I just sent a short list to the research team for financial reviews.” If he’d learned anything from Natalie, itwas that in a small town, treading lightly was the name of the game. “Much as I want to, I can’t just barge in and start asking questions. I’ve been looking for a way in with the guys in the repair shop.”
“That makes sense. They’d have easier access.”
“Right,” Trent agreed. “But if their clients lose property after service, they’d be the first suspects.”
“True. Can Jess help vet any of them?”
“Not really.” Frustrated, Trent turned back toward the noisy construction site. “I don’t know of anyone outside of the marina who could track these boats effectively.”
“Let the team work on the financials.” Swann cleared his throat. “Speaking of… Are you enjoying your investigation?”
“You’re looking at the fishing charter charges on my agency credit card.”
“I am.” Swann sounded amused. “I’m all about having a good time. And you know I’m just giving you crap.”
“I’m submitting it because the outing did lead to those new names. Potential leads.”
“You picked up good chatter on the outing?”
“Afterward actually.” Trent explained, “Natalie Hargrave has her thumb on the pulse when it comes to the folks around town.”
“As long as she’s not involved in the scheme,” Swann warned.
“She’s one third of the ownership for a business Guardian Agency partners with regularly.”
“I’m aware,” Swann allowed. “From the background in front of me, she’s the least involved with the business and has ties to some people with shady habits.”
Trent felt his temper spike. Natalie wouldn’t betray her sisters. Somehow, he summoned a gruff laugh. “Artists, you mean?”
“Her ex-husband is a con artist waiting to get caught,” Swann deadpanned. “And has also been recently seen in the area.”
He did not want to go down this path. “Natalie is not involved with her ex,” Trent stated. “I had my own reservations at first, especially since the body washed up on the Hargrave beach.”
“One more consideration.”
“I’ve considered, analyzed, and cleared her.” He couldn’t push any harder right now. “If something else gives me reason to change my mind about her, I’ll let you know.”
“Got it.”
Trent was certain Swann was smirking. A fair reaction, since Trent prided himself on his professional detachment. There was no way Natalie was involved with Royer, not even by coincidence. She was too kind. And he figured after the fiasco with her ex, she was too cautious and transparent to be of any use to a thief. He understood some people did bad things for the rush of it. Not Natalie. She got her endorphin rush through her artwork.
“Hey, I trust you not to fall for a pretty face with a thin alibi,” Swann said. “As our lead investigator with boots on the ground, you’re in control.”
“Gee, thanks.” Trent managed not to snarl.
“Just be careful. The way Royer has escalated to murder is troubling on all fronts. The research team hasn’t found anything that explains it.”
Another screech of mechanical equipment drew Trent’s attention, providing a good target for the pent-up irritation and annoyance. “I’m not giving up until we find Royer,” he vowed. “Or his connection here.”
“Glad to hear it. This has gone beyond justice for grand theft. This guy needs to pay for the lives he’s taken.”
“Understood.” Trent agreed wholeheartedly. Justice was one of the top reasons he’d joined the Guardian Agency. “I’ll be in touch when I have news.”
Ending the call, Trent studied the coastline. He had to admire the perfect timing that allowed Natalie’s parents to purchase this unique lot on this side of the island. The neighboring properties would have wonderful views but not a private beach due to the natural landscape. He walked over to where the body had washed up. For several minutes he studied the current and tide line while his thoughts wandered.
