Page 130 of Concrete Evidence
“Yeah. The latest weather report says the rain should be moving out by noon.”
“Best news we’ve had for a while.”
In thirty-five minutes, they arrived at a large church campus hosting emergency supplies and shelter for flood victims. Bunk beds lined the church’s recreation building. Tables held water and snacks, and signs indicated the cafeteria offered hot meals.
Marc experienced an unexpected surge of compassion and appreciation for all those who sacrificed time and resources to help the victims. His mother and Tessa wanted to help too, but not with the danger.
God. You have good people serving You. Thanks. And, God, I need help in ending this case.These people needed to know those responsible would be held accountable for their actions.Help me with insight and wisdom. Thanks again.
“You’re quiet,” Avery said.
“Thinking. I want the guilty people in cuffs.”
“I know, and as much as I don’t want to believe Leanne, Craig, and Shipley have instigated this, evidence points to them.”
The senator approached and pointed to Leanne and Craig, who were assisting a young family to the registration desk. Leanne wrapped her arm around a pregnant woman’s waist, and Craig carried a toddler opposite his wounded side. How could these two be behind the murders?
Or was this a way to ease their consciences?
Avery faced the senator and Marc. “I want to ask Leanne the hard question. We’ve been friends for too many years to allow one of you to confront her.”
“Sweet girl, are you sure?” Love laced the senator’s tone.
She reached up and kissed his weathered cheek. “Yes. Let’s do this.”
The three joined Leanne and Craig, and Marc led out. “Craig, you were told not to leave the ranch, even to help these people. You broke the law.”
Craig held his side where blood had seeped through the bandage. “I couldn’t ignore the suffering. Yes, it was wrong, but I don’t regret giving these folks a hand.”
“Why didn’t you contact me?”
“You’d have stopped me before I got started.”
True. “You’re not blind to the serious evidence stacked against you.”
“No, I’m not. And I will tell you the truth once we’re back.”
Avery turned to her friend. “Leanne, while at your house, I looked for your truck in the barn, and the rain started to pour again. I searched for something to cover my head and found a motorcycle in one of the stalls.”
“My cousin asked me to store it for him. Why?”
“Jake?” Avery said.
“Yes. Not sure why he didn’t have room at his parents’ place. Why?”
“It’s been seen with a suspect during the commission of a few crimes, namely murder.”
She gasped. “That’s why he’s in jail?” When Avery nodded, Leanne touched her mouth. “I had no idea. He brought the bike over while I was at work. In fact, I’ve never seen it. I owe you a huge apology. I knew he’d been arrested, but I’ve been so consumed with all of this, and I didn’t follow up on what he’d done.”
Craig startled. “Finding the motorcycle seems like Leanne and I are part of these crimes.” He turned to Marc. “I assure you. We are innocent of any murders or the stressed dam.”
The senator cleared his throat. “We need proof to exonerate both of you.”
“I understand.” Craig’s features fell. “I’ve committed to serving meals for the next hour. I’d like to finish.”
“Impossible.” The senator lifted his chin. “No argument. On the way back, you’ll ride with Marc, and Avery will drive your truck.”
Craig squared off with the senator. “Then I guess I’m under arrest until you and the agents confirm my story.”
