Page 139 of Concrete Evidence
JC grinned and helped them board the UTV, then tied Zoom to the rear.
“Have you seen Roden or Granddad?” Avery said.
“I saw paramedics treating the senator, and he was hollering like a mad bull. But no signs of the agent.”
At the house, Avery and Marc rushed inside and to the library in search of Roden. Marc swung open the bullet-riddled closet door. Empty. No blood.
“Roden?” He rushed into the foyer. “Roden?”
“Maybe he’s with a paramedic?” Avery said.
“I’m coming.” The big man ambled down the hallway.
Marc grabbed him into a bear hug. “I thought Shipley got you for sure.” He drew back for confirmation of no blood.
“Figured he planned to drill me with holes. I squatted down the best I could and hoped he fired for my head and stomach.” He pointed toward the library. “I was spot-on.”
“Who let you out?”
“Bro, does this man look like he needs help eliminating a door? I’ve been trained to block. The women are out in Craig’s office. Afraid to stay in the safe room or house.”
Marc sobered. “I lost my phone. I’d appreciate it if you’d let them know Avery and I are okay.”
Roden yanked his phone from his pocket and texted them. Once finished, he glanced up, obviously needing information.
“We think Shipley drowned,” Marc said. “From what Avery and I saw, the current pulled him under.”
“Sorry to hear, but I’m tellin’ you, I’m glad this is over.”
“You know it. I need to check on the senator. He took a bullet, and the ordeal could—”
“Shove him into a heart attack,” Avery said.
“Just spoke with him outside. The bullet grazed his left arm, but he broke it when he fell. Refused to be transported to the hospital until Avery showed up.”
She bolted to the front door.
“The senator would do anything for Avery,” Marc said. “Nearly gave his life.”
“So would you,” Roden said.
“In more ways than I ever thought possible.”
78
AVERY HELD GRANDDAD’S UNINJURED HANDwhile the paramedic inserted an IV before transporting him to the hospital. She swallowed one lump after another, refusing to cry. Even if she did give in, were they tears of relief and sorrow?
“You’re doing it again, sweet girl.”
“What?”
“Stuffing your emotions. Time to stop.” His eyes watered, and she questioned if the broken arm and bullet had raised his blood pressure to a dangerous level.
“Granddad, we need to get you to the hospital. I’ll follow the ambulance.”
“In a minute. I have a few things to say first.”
Horror pierced her heart. “Are you having a heart attack?”
