Page 87 of Rescued Faith

“I thought we were on the same team.”

“We are.”

“Then why didn’t you call me the second your family was kidnapped? I would’ve been there to help find them.”

Ah. That.

“Do you not trust me?” he asked.

“That has nothing to do with it.”

“Then what is it about?”

“Tony, all I could focus on was finding Libby and the kids. I wasn’t really thinking straight. And I admit, I’m not the greatest at depending on others. I’m sorry. But for now, we need to focus on finding the governor’s family.”

“No more of this leaving me in the dark?”

“I’ll do my best. Are we good?”

He gave her a short nod. “Okay.” He looked around the room. “Where are the others on the task force?”

“Jude is here somewhere. Olivia too, I think. Bryce had a work shift.”

“You two figure anything out?” Tony’s smirk was back.

Penny rolled her eyes at him. “Wouldn’t you like to know.”

Jason Woods clapped. The chatter around the room immediately died. “All right, people. Let’s keep eyes open. You know what to do.”

Penny took her place behind the governor as he left the room. They made their way to the stage, where a podium stood. Officers situated around the room guarded every angle. Pennystayed in the spotlight, scanning the crowd, ready to move if need be.

“Welcome, friends and neighbors. Who’s ready to boogie?” The governor spoke into the microphone.

Cheers and clapping rose from the crowd.

Penny studied every inch of the room, not really listening to the governor’s speech. She didn’t know how he was holding it together with his wife and child missing. But she’d make sure nothing happened to the man on her watch. The governor’s security had ensured the corners of the room were well-lit. Caterers came and went as they filled plates and trays of hors d’oeuvres on the back table. None of them stood out or paid much attention to the man on the stage.

Before she knew it, Governor Noble was waving and leaving the podium. His countenance changed as soon as he was offstage. His shoulders dropped and he ran a hand through his hair.

A woman handed him a tablet as soon as he reached the wings. “Here’s a list of the people you wanted to touch base with tonight.”

“Thank you, Reba.” He scrolled down the tablet, then handed it back to her. “Let’s get this over with.” He rolled his shoulders back as if bracing himself and walked a few steps. He paused and pulled out his phone. His whole body went rigid.

“What is it?” Penny asked.

He shook his head. “Nothing.” He gave her a tight smile.

“Are you sure? If you know something?—”

“No, no. I’m fine. I’m just not really in a dancing mood. But let’s go out there, make our appearance, and leave.”

“Whatever you say.” Penny stepped back behind him, watching the shadows as they navigated the dark spaces at the edges of the stage and wound down to the dance floor.The governor mingled with guests, shook hands, smiled. Penny stayed on his tail and watched for her target.

The governor bent over the table and looked at something a man with a jacket and bolo tie was showing him. Penny took a moment to study the outskirts of room. It had been a lot easier from up on stage.

A man in a black Stetson, standing at the coffee station by the desserts, caught her eye. His back was to Penny, but he was the right height and build. He spoke to a woman and then left the room. Just before he did, he turned, and she caught his profile.

Sosa!

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