Page 223 of Rangers Unexpected Return

Not barking.

Waiting.

The lid wasn't dusty.

It had been touched recently.

Judy joined me.

"Will."

The crime scene technician climbed into the attic carrying gloves.

"Nobody touches it."

He photographed every angle.

Then slowly lifted the lid.

Inside...

Nothing.

Just newspapers.

Old blankets.

And...

A portable speaker.

Tiny.

Black.

Modern.

Will turned it over.

A green light blinked.

CONNECTED.

Carson climbed into the attic.

"Bluetooth."

Judy nodded.

"So the laughter..."

"Came through this."

"Whoever was outside the tavern tonight activated it remotely."

Will removed the batteries.

"It wasn't left here eighteen years."