Page 283 of Rangers Unexpected Return

Even the Magnolia Ladies lowered their eyes.

"My name is Emily Ross."

"I'm nineteen years old."

"And if something has happened to me..."

"...it wasn't an accident."

Judy paused only long enough to steady her voice.

"I know what people think."

"They think I'm imagining things."

"I'm not."

"I've seen him."

"I've watched him."

"And I know he's hurting children."

Sheriff Tate shut his eyes.

His jaw tightened.

"I don't know his name."

"I only know..."

"...he smiles when everyone else is looking."

"...and changes when no one is."

A chill settled over the room.

Judy continued.

"If anything happens to me..."

"...please find Emma."

"Please don't stop looking for her."

"She still has a chance."

Silence.

Absolute silence.

Even the rain seemed quieter.

Mabel quietly wiped away a tear.

Hazel reached over and squeezed her hand.

Sheriff Tate stared at the tabletop.