Page 28 of Luke

Luke removed his hat, wiped his feet on the welcome mat, brushed the snow from the shoulders of his coat, and sighed as he stepped into the warm kitchen.

“Coffee?”

“I’d appreciate that, Mr. Hancock. That wind will cut right through you.”

“Yeah, it’s nasty as hell out there today. Take a seat, son.”

“Yes, sir.” After removing his coat, Luke pulled a chair out from the table and sat down. He nodded his thanks when Mr. Hancock set a cup of hot coffee in front of him. After making himself one, he took a seat at the table.

“Were you able to see anything?”

“There were some tracks, but the snow was filling them up. I couldn’t tell if they were human or animal. I did see some paw prints, but the snow quickly filled them too.” Luke shook his head.

“It’s going to be difficult with all the snow and we’re expecting more tomorrow.” Mr. Hancock sighed.

“I agree with you. I’m not going to be able to find anything out here, but I can still go through files. Hopefully, somethingwill pop out at me. I don’t know why they’d steal Shires, unless someone specifically wanted them.” Luke looked at the man. “Did anyone want to buy them from you, and you refused to sell?”

“It’s been over a year, but a man came by and offered me a hefty price for the lot of them. I told him they were my livelihood, so why would I sell all of them? He seemed a little upset, but I offered to sell him a mare and stud.” Mr. Hancock shook his head. “He wasn’t interested in that at all.”

“That’s strange. Why would he want them all?” Luke frowned.

“I couldn’t figure it out, but like I said, that was over a year ago. He never came back.”

“Has anyone offered to buy your land for whatever reason?”

“Nope. Why do you ask?”

“I was just thinking, if someone was interested in your land, and you had no desire to sell, maybe they think if you don’t have the Shires to sell, you wouldn’t be able to keep the ranch.” Luke shook his head. “I don’t know. Some people try anything to get what they want. It could be rustlers, or it could be someone trying to force you off the land, for whatever reason.”

“My family has owned this land for generations.”

“Do you live here alone?”

“Yes, my wife passed away two years ago, and my son has no interest in the ranch. I imagine he’ll sell it after I’m gone.”

“I’m sorry to hear that.”

“It is what it is. Many families don’t want to carry on traditions these days. My great-great-grandfather started this ranch. It’s a shame to see it end, but it’s becoming more common.” Mr. Hancock smiled sadly.

“Yeah, it’s a shame.” Luke said before pushing his chair back and standing up, placing his cup in the sink. “I’ll head to the office and see if I can find any information.”

“Thank you, Agent McCallister.” Mr. Hancock shook hishand.

“You’re welcome. I’ll do my best.”

“I know you will, son. Be careful out there.”

“Yes, sir.” Luke put on his coat, grabbed his hat, and walked toward the door before turning back to face the older man. “Would it be possible to talk to some of your ranch hands?”

“Of course, although they’re probably in the bunkhouse. You might find Rafe in the barn; he’s the manager. That man never stops working.”

“What’s his last name?”

“Marshall. He’s a good man, I’m sure he’ll assist you however he can.”

“Yes, sir. I’ll see if I can find him. Thank you.” Luke walked out of the door.

Standing on the porch, he looked out at the snow and could barely make out the barn in the distance. Taking a deep breath, he walked down the steps and trudged through the snow toward the barn. He noticed a man walking toward him.

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