Page 94 of Concrete Evidence
Marc laughed and took another huge drink of the coffee. “Now who’s interrogating whom?”
She grinned. “I’m a curious cook.”
“He asked to see his dad. Refused to talk. But today he faces questioning.”
“Hard to understand people and their wild behavior. I listened to the news earlier, and the hurricane’s predicted landfall hasn’t changed.” She scraped the bowl ensuring every last drop of batter made it into the pan. “Most people near the dam have evacuated the area.”
“The ones who stay behind risk their lives. Do you have friends or family near there?”
“A few friends who have abandoned their homes for higher ground.” She trembled. “Whoever thinks those here at the ranch could be responsible need to look at what the senator, Avery, and Craig have done by donating thousands of dollars to take care of those in need. Makes me furious.”
“I understand. Wish we could find Craig.”
Mia swung to him. “Alive.”
“I need to ask you something private.” When she agreed, he continued. “Have you ever seen or heard anything from Craig thattainted his integrity? Or heard him argue with the senator or another person about an unusual topic?”
“He’s rough on the hands when they are out of line or make mistakes. But he also delivers praises and encourages them. They respect him.”
“Does he have feelings for Avery?”
“More like a big brother. Now he has Leanne, and they seem very happy.” She sighed. “The idea of him hurt or worse tears me apart.”
“Does he have family?” Marc’s background check showed a half sister in Montana who hadn’t heard from him in over twenty years.
“His father passed, and his mother is in a nearby dementia care facility. He visits her on Sunday afternoons.” Mia tilted her head. “Ask the senator or Avery. He might have other family in the area. Before you ask about his friends, he works all the time, and his friendships are with the other hands and at church.”
Marc gave her a thumbs-up. “Thanks.” He sniffed. “When’s breakfast? My stomach’s growling.”
“The corn bread’s got to bake. For the record, your father loved my corn bread.”
“Did you know him well?”
Mia tilted her head. “I’ve heard the talk about his younger years, but the man who visited the senator impressed me with his quiet mannerisms and wisdom.”
“Thanks. Appreciate that.” Something about his father, the man others knew, was drawing Marc closer to him.
“But the corn bread still needs to bake before breakfast.”
“All right. I’ll survive. Think I’ll see what’s happening at the stables.”
“Refill your mug and take it with you. Maybe Craig’s back.”
Marc refused to tell her he’d be the first to know. Each hour ticking by lessened the chances of Craig turning up alive.
Last night, Drendle carried a military-grade scope rifle. Registered to his father, who claimed he didn’t know the rifle was missing.
“I smell coffee.”
Marc whirled to see Avery dressed in jeans that hugged her curves just right. “You’re up way too early after our midnight party.”
She gave Mia a kiss on the cheek and reached for a mug with an aerial view of the ranch. “And good morning to you too. Are you headed somewhere?”
“The stables, Miss Perky.”
“I’ll join you.”
He wanted her company. Very much. Outside in the hours of predawn, the air hadn’t taken on the extreme temps sure to come later in the day.
