AllFreeNovel
Share Us
“How are you planning on doing that?”
“I’m in a situation here, Tate. I have to tread carefully as some of the town council aren’t on the same page as I am. Getting them to recall the tax deferment was a big step. Even that was only won by one vote.”
“And after that?”
“Well, when they can’t pay the taxes, we can have them removed. I’ll call the governor and ask for assistance from the National Guard.”
“And, you’re aware that the townspeople are afraid that will lead to an all-out war.”
Ray sat back in his chair and rubbed his jaw. “I’m aware. And it just might be the cleansing we need for the town.”
“By cleansing, you mean loss of life?”
His right shoulder rose and fell. “Sometimes that’s what it means.”
Aidyn let out a breath. “Why is Officer Bennit soft on the BRR? And why doesn’t the sheriff force him to get tougher with them?”
“Yes. The sheriff is in the leave-them-alone camp. They largely let them cause trouble and wreak havoc thinking they’re getting back at those of us who want them gone. All they’re doing is solidifying our position that the BRR is nothing but trouble.”
Tate dropped his foot to the floor and leaned forward. “What have you heard or do you know about men going up the mountain and sampling the women up there?” He raised his fingers in air quotes. “That’s Everett’s complaint and wording, not mine. And he further told me to ask Officer Bennit about it.”
Ray frowned and nodded slowly. “I’ve heard rumors.”
Chapter22
Lara pulled into Shianne’s driveway and heaved out a deep breath.
Shianne motioned to her from the side door. “Let me grab my range bag and lock up.”
Lara looked up into the sky and closed her eyes. The sun wasn’t high in the sky at this time of day, but it was still warm. She inhaled the fresh air. Lilacs and wisteria.
“Are you smelling the air?”
She smiled at Shianne. “I am. I let myself forget about all the beauty we have here. I’ve been dwelling on the bad that’s happening. I’ve been letting myself drown in my own problems.”
“I think we all do that Lara. We both know I’ve had those times too.”
She giggled as they walked to her car.
Once they’d buckled up, she pulled out of the driveway and headed toward the edge of town.
“So, I had one of the BRR women in my shop today.”
Shianne’s head whipped around. “What? No way!”
“Yes. She apologized for her son’s behavior. He was one of the boys, men, whatever, who wrecked my place.”
“Which one? Whose Mom is she?”
“I don’t know. I don’t know any of their names or who they belong to.”
“Did you tell your dad?”
“No.”
“Tate?”
“No.”
