Page 31 of The Unbuttoned Ranger
“So the bureau has come to its senses?”
“You could say they have, but after the local media picked up the story on the shootings it took a lot of covering up to hide the truth, and the team’s identity. There are some stipulations attached to the proposal.”
Sharp sat back in the rocker.“I suspected that would happen.”
“You’ll still be working under me, but you’ll be the direct line of communication. There won’t be any files or information at the bureau for the team, so that means anything you do is off the books. Outside of me, there’s only one other person who knows the team is still operating. Samuel Grayson. He can be trusted. He’s been at the bureau a long time.”
“Something tells me there’s more to this,” Sharp said.
Delta gave a sharp nod.“We need a base and cover for the team.”
Sharp leaned forward.“What do you have in mind?”
“Grayson and I were hoping you’d agree to use the ranch. We’ll supply the money to build whatever living accommodations are needed, an office, livestock…”
“Here? Won’t that be a bit obvious?”
“Not if they’re running the ranch. On every ranch you’ll find cowboys.”
Sharp chuckled.“Look around you. This isn’t quite a ranch these days.”
“How many acres you got here, Sharp?”
“Three hundred acres.”
“Didn’t Bradley used to run a profitable place?”
Sharp knew the direction this was heading.“Yeah, he did, but he retired.”
“Think you could make it profitable again?”
“Maybe you should get to the bones of what you’re asking. I’ve never known the bureau to come off any discretionary funds for a recon team.”
After some hesitation, Delta finally explained.“Your first assignment is to find out who the moles are at ground level and above. It must be managed with care and confidentiality. The large mission will need to be broken down into smaller missions. That’s why you’ll be supervising the team and keeping an eye on them. Some of them are about as elegant as elephants in a china shop. Any of them you think can’t stay on a narrow path, don’t bring them in.”
“There’s not one I’d say can’t follow strict orders, but what are we looking at? We’d need some freedom, and the ranch won’t generate enough income for a while to pay.”
“You’ll have freedom, but like I said, this needs to be handled with care. As far as budget, I’ll set that up.”
“Do you have suspects? Or is this a wild goose chase?”
His mouth thinned. “I believe this may be more invasive than either of us expects. I can’t dig any deeper without raising suspicion, but as far as anyone knows, the Texas Heat recon unit is considered disbanded, which should allow you and your team to approach from a different perspective.”
Sharp thought over the opportunity. His pa wanted him to retire, but Sharp wasn’t quite there yet. This prospect would enable him to remain in Fin’s Creek and perhaps allow him to pursue his interest in settling down. His mind traveled to CaDee. They’d gotten closer over the last few days, and he didn’t mind one bit. Yet, would she stay in town? “I need to speak to Pa first. When do you need a definite answer?”
“By tomorrow. I realize that doesn't provide you with much time to figure out the specifics, but it's necessary to act fast.”
Sharp scratched his jaw. “What protocol should we follow upon identifying the moles?”
“You have the freedom to make decisions but avoid acting hastily. We require debriefing and a chance to follow a trail.”Delta stood. “Let me know your answer and I’ll contact you via the messaging service with budget details. The prize is that you get to stay here.”
“Whose ass did you have to kiss to make this happen?” Sharp mostly teased. He knew Delta wasn’t an ass kisser.
“Let’s just say, there are funds available when we need them. Let me worry about that and you decide if you want to bring these assholes down.”
“I thought that was you out here,” Bradley said as he stepped out onto the porch and shook Delta’s hand.“Long time no see.”
“How are you, my friend?”
