Page 48 of Luke

“No problem.”

Luke ended the call, set his phone down, and looked at Creed.

“His name is Frederick Hancock, Jr.”

Creed stood up. “I’ll see what I can find.”

“I really appreciate it, Creed.”

“Of course.”

Luke was getting so frustrated over this case. Hiding fifteen horses wasn’t easy anyway but to hide fifteen huge horses is almost impossible. Unless the horses were taken across theborder or they were slaughtered, they should be easy to find.

No one could just suddenly have fifteen draft horses and not be questioned by anyone who knew them. Those horses could cost up to twenty thousand dollars each, so no one just happens to have fifteen of them all at once.

As the day came to an end, Luke couldn’t believe he still had any hair left on his head. He slumped back in his chair, took a deep breath, and ran his fingers through his disheveled hair. Getting up from his seat, he grabbed his hat and coat from the coat rack before storming out of the room.

He didn’t even bother waiting for the elevator; he angrily pushed open the door to the stairwell, causing it to slam against the wall and bounce back toward him. Frustrated, he hit it again before running down the stairs. Exiting the building’s lobby, he stepped out into the fading light of the setting sun, realizing it was already past six.

Sitting in his truck, he stared out the windshield for a few moments before reaching into his coat pocket for his phone. He sent a text to Bryce instead of calling, not wanting to disturb Leah who may be sleeping.

Bryce?

Yes?

Can I see you?

What’s wrong?

It’s just been one hell of a day.

Sure, come on.

Thanks. I’ll be there soon.

Alright.

Putting his phone away, Luke started his truck and pulled out of the parking lot. He arrived at the diner and parked around back by the stairs. Shutting off his truck, he sat there for a few minutes before mustering up the energy to get out.

“What a damn long day,” he muttered as he opened hisdoor and made his way up the stairs. When he reached Bryce’s apartment door, he knocked, and she answered almost immediately. She welcomed him inside with open arms as he removed his hat and wiped his feet.

“Come in, Luke.” She led him inside and helped him out of his coat before hanging it up. Taking his hand, she led him over to sit on the couch next to her.

Luke leaned back on the couch and let out a sigh. He reached for Bryce’s hand and brought it up to his lips, planting a kiss on her palm.

“What’s wrong?” she asked with concern in her voice.

“Just this case I’m working on.” He looked at her. “I don’t want to let Mr. Hancock down.”

“Why do you think you will?”

“I can’t seem to make any progress. And now I found out he has cancer.” Hearing her gasp, Luke nodded and continued. “I want to recover those horses for him before anything happens.”

“What kind of cancer does he have?”

“I don’t know... his manager told me he was diagnosed recently. It was just shocking to hear. He looks so healthy.” Luke shook his head. “I know that doesn’t necessarily mean anything, but you would never guess he was sick just by looking at him. He’s such a kind man.”

“I’m sorry, but it might not be something he can live with for a while.”

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