Page 52 of Race to Save Her

“Thank you for asking,” he said deliberately, trying to sound pleasant. “I’m fine.”

Every time Ames said something it made Katie almost cringe—as if hearing an unpleasant sound like fingernails on a chalkboard. She wondered why that was.

Ames slid the veggies into the boiling pot and turned down the temperature. “It’s got to simmer for a bit and then it’ll be ready.”

“Maybe I’ll just head home. It doesn’t seem as bad outside.”

A heavy downpour ensued along with more rolling thunder.

Ames took a seat at the bar next to Katie. “Why do you have a problem with me?”

Katie let out a chuckle. “Isn’t it the other way around?”

He leaned back. “I’ve seen you work and how you deduce things and your record… well… need I say more?”

“Is that it? You have a fragile ego?” She watched the arson investigator closely.

He shook his head.

“You opened the door,” she said. “What is it you wanted to tell me about the crime scene at Heritage Road?”

Ames stared at her as if he were trying to push his will upon her. Finally, he said, “When I was running I saw a black truck speeding toward me.”

“How far from the crime scene?”

“Not sure, about a half mile.”

“What time?”

“Around six forty-five.”

“What made you take note of it?” she said.

“I’ve run the area ever since I transferred here. And something made me look at the truck. It had darkened windows, no front license plate, and seemed to be hurrying—more than just being late for work.”

Katie thought about what he said. It could be nothing, but then again, he could have witnessed the killer leaving the area. “Do you know what kind of truck?”

“It was a Chevy, about five years old, black with custom rims.”

“That’s pretty precise.”

“I like trucks.” He gave a smirk.

“Why didn’t you tell me this at the crime scene?”

“To be honest, I didn’t give it another thought. And after seeing that arm, I forgot all about it.”

Katie wasn’t so sure he was telling the truth, but with Ames, everything seemed like a story. “Okay, I’ll add it to the investigation. Thank you.”

“Good. Glad I could help.”

Katie really wanted to leave, but the storm wasn’t letting up. Blitz seemed to enjoy his spot next to Katie.

Ames went to check the soup on the stove, giving it a few stirs. Katie petted the dog, smiling. Then she got up.

“I’m sorry but I need to go.” She headed to the door. This time Ames didn’t stop her.

She opened the door just as another crash of thunder roared above her. Katie hesitated for a moment before returning to her car and then shut the door behind her. It seemed as if the well-timed booms of thunder were telling her something—like a warning to beware.