Page 105 of Rangers Last Promise

Silver charms catch the morning light.

A horseshoe.

A tiny sheriff’s star Dad gave me when I graduated from the academy.

A little book from Mom.

And near the clasp⁠—

An empty ring.

I stop breathing.

“No.”

Doc is beside me instantly.

“What?”

“The key.”

I lift the bracelet with shaking fingers.

The small metal loop where Grant’s silver key hung has been forced apart.

The key is gone.

Doc looks toward the bedroom window.

Then the hallway.

His weapon is in his hand before I can blink.

Sheriff Tate appears in the doorway.

“What happened?”

I hold up the bracelet.

“Someone took Grant’s key.”

Doc's face goes cold.

“Hampton.”

I shake my head.

“He said he couldn't find the journal. He didn't know where Mom moved the lockbox.”

“That doesn't mean he didn't know where you kept the key.”

“But if Hampton already had it last night, why tell us he was looking for it?”

Sheriff Tate's expression hardens.

“He wouldn't.”

I look at Doc.