Page 41 of Cinnamon Cider Whiskey
“That’s one of them,” Belmont said.
“What does that have to do with my client?” Ted asked.
“A number of things, beginning with the registration matches Charity’s car. The proximity of the ranch. The fact that we found two items that we believe belong to Austin and?—”
“What items?” Ted asked.
One of the many things Austin liked about Ted was that he didn’t let anything go by without demanding further explanation. He didn’t wait for anyone to finish their statement before digging for what he wanted to know. It often caused a rift between him and law enforcement, but that was the nature of the beast.
“A pair of men’s gloves, which have blood on them, and a belt with a Whiskey Ranch buckle much like the one he’s wearing now.” Belmont lifted his finger. “None of this is being released to the press.”
“Ted, am I allowed to speak freely?” Austin glanced at his lawyer.
Ted nodded.
“I’m not missing a belt. However, a few weeks ago, Gage borrowed a pair of my gloves.”
“I’ll need to speak to Gage,” Belmont said.
“He’s visiting his brothers in Twin City. He left a few days ago and we haven’t heard from him since he departed.” Austin didn’t want to bring Gage into any of this. He’d been through enough in his life. The loss of his family had tormented Gage for years. The dirty looks from the community because so many people believed he started the fire, which had been proven false, but that didn’t stop the gossip.
Gage was on the spectrum and many people didn’t understand what that meant. They viewed him as strange and off-putting, when in reality he was the kindest, sweetest man on the planet.
“I’d like his contact information,” Belmont said.
“I’m happy to give it to you, but you need to understand that Gage has some social issues. You can’t come at him like you would anyone else.” Austin leaned forward. “When you speak tohim, it would be better if someone from this ranch—someone he trusts—is with you; otherwise, he’s going to panic.”
“I’ve spoken to him a couple of times. He’s very protective of you and everyone else on this ranch. I understand his personality and promise to handle the situation appropriately. However, I have to consider what you just told me about the gloves and the fact that Gage made it very clear he couldn’t stand Charity. I’m also aware he wasn’t a fan of Pete. Is that because of Cinnamon? Because I get there is more to that story and now I want to know why.”
“It mostly has to do with Cinnamon, but Pete did date his daughter before she died. Pete didn’t care about her. It was all to stay close to Cinnamon and Gage took it personally because it hurt Alyssa, but shortly after that, the fire happened.” Austin shook his head. “There is no way in hell Gage would have done anything to hurt Charity, no matter his feelings. He might wear his emotions on his sleeve and he can occasionally say things that are socially inappropriate, but he doesn’t have a violent bone in his body.”
“As opposed to you.” Belmont lowered his chin.
“I don’t pretend to be a saint. However, I’ve never once laid a hand on a woman.” Austin was so tired of this never-ending cycle. He wanted Charity to be safe, but deep down in his soul, he knew that wasn’t the case. It had been too long since she disappeared for that to be true.
Now all he wanted was answers and for whoever had harmed her to be locked up where they belonged.
But it wasn’t Gage.
“Are you willing to give a DNA sample?” Belmont asked.
Ted waved his hand. “If you find DNA in the vehicle, we’ll have that conversation, but I’m not going to allow my client to give it now.”
“Fair enough,” Belmont said. “Now I want to talk about this video.” He handed Ted his cell. “Austin had indicated he believes it was doctored. I have spoken to the owner of Boone’s Bar and Grill and a Ms. Welch as well as those she had dined with along with five other people I’ve been able to track down that were at Boone’s that evening. I’ve spoken with the local sheriff. They have all given me the same story, which doesn’t quite match up to that video.”
Ted handed the phone back. “I’m not sure what this has to do with Charity’s disappearance.”
“I can’t get into the details of the possible connection other than we got an anonymous tip the next day,” Belmont said.
“Still don’t get it.” Ted arched a brow.
“I want to know more about your relationship with Pete Thompson.” Belmont held Austin’s gaze. “Let’s start with how long have you known him?”
Austin glanced to Ted.
“Go ahead and answer,” Ted said.
“Most of my life. He grew up here in Buhl. We went to the same high school.” Austin had been trained to keep his answers short and to the point, so he left it at that.
