Page 265 of Cold Case, Warm Hearts

“Some young adults ‘getting their drink on.’ One of the girls was sober. I gave her friends citations and allowed her to drive them home. Hopefully, we won’t have to deal with them again for a while.”

“That’s a lot of ranger vehicles for a couple of kids.”

“They were being difficult, and it was just me, so I called for backup. Pete and Austin both showed up. The pickup belongs to our maintenance man, Jerry. I hadn’t realized he was around when I called it in. He has a way of showing up where you don’t notice him coming or going. It’s uncanny.”

“Interesting,” he said.

“Aren’t you working today?”

He raised a brow, clearly confused by the question.

“I noticed you have your personal vehicle.”

“I switched cars at lunch time. I knew I wouldn’t feel like driving back to the barracks to get my truck before heading home.”

“What are you doing at Sandy Lake? This isn’t anywhere near your crime scene.”

“I need a moment to relax and think through the case before I head home.”

“I’ll leave you to it.”

“You’re welcome to join me.”

She was about to accept his invitation when her fellow rangers drew near.

“Detective, I’m glad you’re here.” Pete smiled.

Emily wanted to remind him Wade’s title was sergeant, but it wasn’t her place.

Wade gave Pete his full attention. “What can I do for you, Ranger Cunningham?”

Pete pulled something from his pocket and handed it to Wade.

“What’s this?”

“It’s the license plate number and make and model of a truck. An F550. I remember stopping it more than once after dark on Boulder Field Road. At the time, I believed it was a poacher out scouting, but considering the recent discovery of bodies out there, I wondered if you might want to take a look at this guy.”

Wade slid the paper into his back pocket. “Thanks for this. I’ll look into it.”

Austin gave the group a salute and tucked into his SUV.

“I’ll see you tomorrow.” Emily waved.

Pete smirked. “I won’t be here.”

“I was speaking to Austin.”

Pete droned on for another ten minutes before leaving her alone with Wade. She strolled over to the lake with him at her side. “What do you think of Pete?” she asked.

“He’s conceited and brash, but the information he gave me could prove useful.” He studied her. “Why do you ask?”

“Just curious.” She looked out over the glass-like surface of the lake.

“I would think you’d be more interested in my opinion of Austin since he’s the one you’re dating.”

“Everyone loves Austin.”

He grinned. “Is that so?”

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