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“Seems they’re originating from there.”
“So, a knock and talk is in order?” He chuckled. “You’re looking for more than a drone operator. Tell me what you’re thinking.”
“That cell phone you found?”
“I think they may have her.”
“Quite a leap from drone operator to kidnapper.”
“They seem to be using those drones for some sort of patrol.”
“Maybe a simple security measure?”
“It’s possible. I don’t think so. A knock and talk should allow us to get a feel for whether or not their hiding something. If we think they are, we can set up a stakeout.”
“You’re coming to some far out conclusions, but I’m in.” He grabbed his keys. “I’ll drive.”
Ten minutes later they were standing on the wide front porch of the Ricketts’ Estate. Billy knocked, and she prepared herself for a confrontation should it came to that.
The man she’d seen bring the drone in earlier came to the door. “How can I help you?” He frowned.
“Rangers Stone and Rollins. We had some reports about a drone being operated on park land. You wouldn’t know anything about that would you?”
The man chuckled. “You came all the way out here to ask me about my drone? Sure I had it up today, but I didn’t realize it went over the fence. I’ll be more careful in the future.”
“You do that.”
As they drove away, Billy smiled and glanced her way. “Did he seem to be hiding anything?”
“He thought it was a laughing matter at first, but then he suddenly turned cooperative. Maybe overly so, don’t you think?”
Billy shook his head and parked his SUV. “You thinking stakeout?”
“I sure am.”
“I’ll grab some snacks. Meet you back at the park office in three hours?”
“Perfect.” She smiled. They didn’t always work with partners, but she thought of Billy as hers. He was a good friend and trusted her instincts even when they went against his own.
Chapter Nineteen
Gavinsankintothesoft leather of his favorite chair in the rustic living area of the lodge. The rest felt good. He hadn’t gotten much sleep the night before. His eyes drifted closed, but the sound of a powerful engine startled him awake. He glanced up in time to see Grayson step out of a Ford Bronco. It’s bright blue paint gleamed in the sunshine. Looked new.
He ambled out to meet his brother, but after the afternoon hike, he was dead on his feet. “That yours?” He raised a brow.
Grayson grinned and patted the hood. “It was sitting there at a dealership calling my name when I was driving past it on my way to the rental place. Figured, why not?”
“Why not, indeed. You always did love shiny toys.” Gavin chuckled.
“Life’s short, and Jenna’s flying in tonight. I can pick her up in style.”
“I’m sure she’ll love it. But do you think the optics look good? Our sister is missing and your off buying new vehicles.”
“Most people will understand we need a way to get around while we’re here. They won’t care if I rent or buy.”
“I suppose you’re right.” Another car pulled into the lot, and Gavin smiled. Scott had arrived with Sam’s Subaru.
“Perfect timing. Gray and I will follow you to Sam’s place, so you can drop off her car, and then we’ll give you a lift back here. You need the address?”
