Page 173 of Rangers Last Promise

“County condemned the structure after the flood twelve years ago. According to the records, it was abandoned.”

“According to the records,” Hampton mutters.

Sheriff Tate looks at him.

“Do you have something useful to contribute?”

“I've spent fifteen years learning not to trust records.”

“That's ironic coming from a man whose death certificate says he's been dead eleven years.”

Trigger laughs.

Hampton closes his eyes.

“I really dislike this town.”

“You'll fit in,” Wolf says.

Mara bends over the map.

“The house would have been near the cottonwoods.”

“Yes.”

“The same place the shooter was positioned when he fired at Mom's house.”

Tate nods.

“And where the dark truck crossed the pasture.”

My attention moves to Hampton.

“Did you know Vance lived here?”

“No.”

I watch his face.

He's telling the truth.

Or he's very good.

“Then why did you come to Eagle River?”

“Because Mara found the journal.”

“How did you know?”

Hampton hesitates.

Sheriff Tate taps the handcuffs.

“Choose your next words carefully.”

Hampton looks at Mara.

“Your mother.”