Page 110 of Rangers Last Promise

I smile.

She points at me.

“Not one word.”

“I didn't say anything.”

“That somehow makes it worse.”

Mrs. Grady continues as though none of us spoke.

“The dark car came past around lunchtime and again after supper. Second time, it stopped down the block.”

“Did anyone get out?” Tate asks.

“A man.”

Every trace of humor disappears.

“What did he look like?”

“Tall. Baseball cap. Gray shirt.”

“Age?”

“I couldn't see his face.”

“Did he approach Mara’s house?”

“No. He walked down the sidewalk and disappeared behind the Henderson place.”

“Which direction is that?” I ask.

Mrs. Grady points.

Toward Mara’s backyard.

Sheriff Tate immediately radios the deputies searching the property.

Mara looks at me.

“That could be when he took the key.”

“Maybe.”

“You don't sound convinced.”

“Hampton was busy watching your mother’s house yesterday.”

“And someone else photographed me outside the bank.”

“Exactly.”

The same realization moves through her eyes.

“At least two people.”

“At least.”