Page 278 of Rangers Unexpected Return

My heartbeat kicked into overdrive.

"Easy," Wolf whispered.

Judy carefully lifted the box into her hands before climbing back down.

The moment her boots touched the floor, everyone gathered around.

There wasn't a lock.

No markings.

Just years of dust.

Rylie stared at it.

"Do you think..."

Judy nodded.

"I think Emily wanted someone to find this."

She slowly reached for the lid.

A low growl echoed through the room.

Every Ranger froze.

Max.

The German Shepherd stood near the windows, ears forward, eyes locked on the darkness outside.

His growl deepened.

Wolf's expression changed instantly.

"Something's out there."

Every instinct I had snapped into place.

Trigger moved toward the lights.

Will eased beside the window.

Sheriff Tate drew his weapon.

The Magnolia Ladies didn't panic.

They simply looked at one another.

Mabel sighed.

"I told you this wasn't over."

Outside...

A shadow moved between the trees across the street.

Then disappeared.