Page 114 of Lion’s Den

“At first, we thought the culprits belonged to one of the local gangs. Now, we don’t believe that’s true.”

“Why not?”

“The Jackals and The Vipers not only break in and steal stuff, they also vandalize property. They don’t do extensive business in drugs, though what they sell is dangerous enough.”

“So, what are they into?”

“Weapons.”

Dario shook his head, expression grim. “Kids and guns are a terrible combination.”

“I know. We’re keeping close tabs on the gangs. My point is, kidnapping doesn’t fit their profile.”

“That can change in a heartbeat.”

“Let’s hope not, or the streets of Maple Valley will run red with blood.”

Dario frowned. “Wait. What about Eddie? Is he a member of a gang?”

“Already thought of that and checked it. Nothing shows that he’s affiliated with either gang.”

“Hmm. Tell me about the assaults, Cam. You mentioned them, so there must be something that stood out from the normal assaults.”

“None of the victims would file a police report.”

His friend’s eyebrows rose. “Interesting. What’s usually happening in the area when this is going on?”

“From my experience, gambling and loan sharks are at the heart of the assaults, along with interpersonal relationship issues with one party losing control and taking it out on the other.”

“Any history of gambling and loan sharks in the area?”

“Not officially.”

Dario glanced in his direction. “But?”

“Although gambling is illegal in Tennessee, people can legally gamble online.” He paused for a moment. “If they’re of legal age.”

“Can’t be Julio. He’s too young. Maria?”

“Maybe, but I doubt it.”

“Emily’s out. That leaves Eddie. But he’s not of legal age, Cam.”

“Some loan sharks don’t care, as long as they get their money back with interest.”

“Got any of those in this picturesque town?”

“A guy by the name of Harlan Pike. He is a man you don’t want to cross.”

“Would he ignore the fact that Eddie is a minor?”

“Absolutely. He deals with anyone. If you need money and have a reasonable shot at repaying the loan, he’s your man. Harlan is an equal-opportunity lender.”

“What are his repayment terms?”

“Lousy. The terms are a rip-off. If you can’t repay the loan at the time agreed upon, you’ll receive a visit from his own personal leg breakers or one of the hit squad, depending on the lesson he wants to send to the other people who owe him money.”

“Hit squad? Really?”