Page 46 of The Cowboy's Promise

“Yes, of course, but I didn’t sleep very well.”

“What happened to your hand?”

“That why I couldn’t sleep. I went for a walk around the grounds and slipped. The ground was frozen.”

“Mr. Meyer, don’t you know lyin’ to an officer is a crime?”

“I’m not lying.”

“I didn’t accuse you, I just asked if you knew.”

“Of course I know, I’m a lawyer.”

“So, I’ll ask you again. Where were you last night Mr. Meyer?”

“The only time I left the cabin was when I went for a walk. I thought it might help me sleep.”

“Where did you go?”

“Just through the trees. It was a bit creepy. I wasn’t out long.”

“I see. And that’s when you fell and hurt your hand.”

“Exactly.”

“Did you see anyone else?”

“No…it was cold. I didn’t see a soul.”

“Anything you’d like to add?”

“No…not that I can think of. “

“If you hear from Miss McCallum I’d advise you to contact me right away,” the sheriff continued, handing him a card.

“Sure. I’ll walk you out.”

They moved wordlessly into the living room with the sheriff leading the way, but when he opened the door, he stopped and stared down at Joe’s bandaged hand.

“You’re a very talented man, Mr. Meyer. I’ve been trained to help medics in emergencies, but I don’t think I could bandage my own hand as well as you have. Where did you learn to do that?”

“What do you mean?”

“You said you didn’t see anyone on your walk last night and that’s when you fell. If you didn’t see anyone, then you must have dressed that hand yourself.”

“Oh, yes, I see what you mean. I have a friend who’s a paramedic. He’s taught me a few things along the way.”

“Where did you find the wrapping?”

“I have a first aid kit in the car. It has everything.”

“Ah, I see. That’s handy,” the sheriff remarked with a chuckle, thinking it was a clever pun. “I’ll be in touch as soon as I have any news.”

Striding from the cabin, he returned to his car and rolled away. But as soon as he was out of sight he backed up into the trees, cut the engine, and radioed Deputy Tagg.

“I’m at the Moonshine Campgrounds. I have reason to believe Courtney McCallum is here. Park outside the entrance. When I see Joe Meyer leave I’ll let you know. Block him. I’ll come up from behind. He’ll be drivin’ a Silver Hyundai Sonata.”

CHAPTER TWENTY-EIGHT

---