Page 266 of Rangers Unexpected Return

The paper had yellowed with age.

Across the front, written in neat handwriting, were three words.

NOT YET, DAD.

Sheriff Tate looked at me.

"Daniel."

I nodded.

"This wasn't left for us."

"It was left for him."

The room became silent.

I carefully opened the envelope.

Inside rested a single folded sheet.

Nothing else.

I unfolded it.

Emily's handwriting.

The room seemed to disappear around me.

I began reading aloud.

Dad,

If you're standing here, then I didn't make it home.

Please don't come looking for me.

They're already watching you because of me.

Trigger quietly lowered his head.

I continued.

You were right.

The room is the safest place in town.

But not for the things they're looking for.

My pulse quickened.

Emily had underlined the next sentence.

I moved the second box before I gave Rylie the key.

Every Ranger became perfectly still.

If anyone finds this letter before you do, then they've already lost.