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“They wouldn’t have released me,” Kristi said. “The kidnappers didn’t cover their faces.”
Adams scowled. “They’re either idiots or they planned to kill Ms. Stewart once they had the money. Check my alibi and rule me out so I can help.”
“We will. If you have anything to hide, we’ll uncover it.”
“I don’t. The worst thing on my record is the dishonorable discharge.”
Rafe inclined his head toward the back door. “Better go so you can check in on time. We’ll be in touch.”
“Yes, sir.” Adams stood. “Ms. Stewart, I wish I’d been on duty the night you were kidnapped. I would have done my best to stop the men from taking you.”
“Call me Kristi. The kidnapping wasn’t your fault. You were taking care of your mother.”
“I’m Dan. I feel like the fault is mine. I was supposed to work that shift, but I called out when my mother’s surgery was rescheduled for Saturday. If I’d been on duty, I would have protected you.”
Rafe’s eyes narrowed. Perhaps Adams’ absence was the reason the kidnappers grabbed Kristi in Gatlinburg instead of a different time and place. “Why wasn’t your partner on duty?”
“He refuses to work when I’m off.”
Cal snorted. “No one else would put up with him.”
“Send me your contact information,” Eli reminded Adams and opened the door for him. After the Ranger left, he turned to the others. “Impressions?”
“I believe him,” Cal said. “He got a raw deal with Kline and will pay the price for the rest of his life unless someone cuts him a break.”
“Jon?”
“Same.”
“Jackson?”
“Ditto.”
“Kristi?”
She jerked. “You want my opinion?”
“Why wouldn’t I?”
“In that case, I agree with the others. Dan deserves a chance to prove himself.”
Rafe looked at Jon. “We need to look closer at Hale.”
“Adams didn’t throw any of his teammates under the bus,” Eli pointed out. “While I agree with you, what makes you more suspicious of him than the others?”
“Ward is singling him out.”
Jackson’s lip curled. “Fleming can’t stay sober long enough to plan and execute the kidnapping.”
“He also doesn’t inspire confidence as a leader.” Cal leaned against the counter. “No one would risk their necks to follow his leadership on this scheme. No payday is that enticing.”
Jon grunted. “Men have followed leaders for much less than $5 million. I’m already digging deeper into all of their backgrounds. I’ll let you know what I find, Rafe.”
With a nod, Rafe turned to Kristi. “Do you want to lie down for an hour?”
“I’m wide awake. I’ll get ready for the day, then start on Maggie’s dress.”
Rafe tugged Kristi to her feet. “I’ll walk you up.” He threaded his fingers through hers and escorted Kristi to her room. “Take your time. When you’re dressed, come to the first-floor kitchen. I’ll have breakfast ready.” He held up a hand when she wrinkled her nose. “I know you don’t feel like eating, but your body needs fuel. You have a long day ahead of you.”
