Page 77 of Concrete Evidence
“Something valuable enough to kill for.” Marc’s mind swept back over the possibilities. “Money or power. Toss in hate and/or revenge.”
“The issue with the dam’s repeated inspections make me crazy. We’ve all been lucky. No, not lucky. God is watching over us. And I worry Granddad might be in the killer’s sights. I hope you have fresh ideas because I don’t.”
“Who does the senator trust the most? Those who are his insiders?”
She opened her eyes, the confusion in them as murky as floodwaters. “Marc, I’ve already contacted everyone I could think of. No one has seen him or offered where to look. I contacted resorts, hunting lodges, and areas outside the country.”
“Do you think any of those people would go against his wishes? He could have been right there listening to your conversation.”
Her features fell as though contemplating his questions. “Anything is possible. Haven’t you done your FBI thing with the list?”
“Yes. With the FIG.”
“The what?”
“FBI’s Field Intelligence Group. Includes special agents, linguists, intelligence analysts, and surveillance specialists.”
“I learned something new.”
He smiled. “Is there a woman in the senator’s picture?”
“Not since Grandma died when I was a little girl. He’s married to the ranch, the business, church, and politics. He occasionally has dinner with a congresswoman from Oklahoma, but that’s rare. And her name is on the list.”
“Jeannie Blackford? You’ve talked to her?”
Avery’s eyes flashed. “I told you I had.” She held up her bandaged arm, minus the sling. “My apologies. No reason for me to take out my lack of sleep on you.”
“Yes, there is. I woke you.” He studied her. “We need our rest. The drive to the dam will be early. I assume you want to start your inspection before the dive team gets there.”
She nodded. “I hope the Army Corps doesn’t turn me away.”
“They won’t. I received permission through the FBI—as long as I’m with you.”
She shook her head. “You’re stuck with me.”
“Do I hear excitement about spending time with me?”
“I feel like you’re my babysitter.”
If the pangs of longing in Marc’s heart were the real thing, he had no desire to babysit. “What about a man who cares about your safety?”
“He should have learned his lesson.”
Marc captured her blue gaze, warmth sliding through his chest. “Maybe he likes your company.”
“Maybe she likes his company.” She bit her lip, holding his gaze, as though looking away might end the moment.
“Where are we going?” he whispered.
“I wish I had an answer.” Avery stood. “You’re right. We need our rest for later today. I’ll ride and you drive.”
“You’re going to sleep the forty minutes it takes to get there?”
“Absolutely.” Her breathing quickened.
He joined her, fighting the urge to taste her lips. “See you at six.”
A pink blush spread over her face. “I’ll be ready.”
