Page 52 of Fatal Witness

“I know, just teasing you.” Nathan stood. “Look, I need to head out—I have an appointment with the mayor. I’ll have one of my deputies coordinate with Hayes on a schedule for driving by here.”

“I’ll walk out with you,” Alex said.

Dani noticed the look that passed between the Stones as their granddaughter followed Nathan outside. “Nathan seems really nice.”

“The best,” Sheriff Stone replied.

Judith frowned. “I just hope Alex settles on a wedding date soon—”

“Now, Judith, give her time...”

Lizi stood and stretched, then padded over to the back door and whined. “You need to go out, girl?”

“What kind of dog did you say she was?” Sheriff Stone asked.

“Puli—they’re Hungarian sheepherding dogs, but they make good guard dogs.”

“She seems quite smart,” he replied.

“Oh, the breed is very smart and brave, which is why my uncle bought her. She’s very protective of the people she owns.” And some she didn’t, as last night with Mark came to mind.

She opened the back door and froze. Alex was in Nathan’s arms.Not good timing, Dani.Before she could close the door, Lizi nosed her way through it. Alex quickly moved out of Nathan’s arms.

“Sorry,” Dani mumbled as she hurried after Lizi, who had headed straight for the trees. “We won’t be long.”

“Not a problem,” Alex said.

“Speak for yourself,” Nathan teased.

A few minutes later, she returned with Lizi to the patio where the two still stood talking. “Sorry for interrupting you,” she said just as Alex’s phone rang.

She glanced at the screen. “It’s Hayes.” Alex pressed the answer button and it went to speaker. “What’s going on?”

“Just got a call from Mark. He needs backup.”

“What happened?”

“Not sure. Something about a car tailing him. I’m almost there.”

“I’m on my way.” She scanned the backyard before turning to Dani. “I need you inside. Now!” Then she punched a number on her phone. “Jenna, can you come to my grandfather’s house STAT?” Alex nodded. “Great.”

“Is Mark all right?” Dani’s heart jumped into her throat. If someone hurt him again, this time because he was in her car...

Frustration swept over Dani when Alex ignored her and insteadturned to Nathan. “This could be a diversion. Jenna says she’s five minutes out, but I need to get on the road. Would you stay here until she arrives and brief her?”

“Sure. Keep me informed of the situation, and stay safe.”

“Always.” Alex turned to leave.

“Tell me if Mark is okay.” Dani crossed her arms over her chest. She wasn’t going anywhere until she knew.

“As soon as I know, I’ll let you know. I have a deputy coming to guard the house—Jenna Hart. Now, inside!” Alex opened the back door, and from the look on the chief deputy’s face, Dani knew she had no choice but to go through it.

“What’s wrong?” Carson asked as she came through the door.

“Mark’s in trouble,” Dani said. And it was her fault. Again.

24

---