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“You’ll answer every one of them from now on. I have several phones. Is that clear?”

“Yes, yes, sure.”

“I’m calling to make sure you don’t have any smart ideas for tomorrow night.”

“I don’t know what you mean.”

“No bailing out at the last minute. If you’re scared, suck it up, and no calling your local sheriff in a panic. I’m warning you, if you pull any bullshit, that slap I gave you will feel like a whisper in comparison. Do I make myself clear?”

“Yes, Kenny.”

“What were all those cars doing there today? And that van?”

“Just workers for the event,” she replied, shocked he’d been watching. She hadn’t seen him or any other biker in the area.

“What kind of workers. Be specific.”

“Decorators and the catering staff checking things out.”

“Remember, if any shit hits the fan, you and that cowboy will be the first I’ll deal with. And I have plenty of friends to help me.”

“Okay, Kenny, you don’t have to worry.”

“Are you sure you don’t have anything to tell me? This is your last chance, little girl.”

“I’m sure, there’s nothing,” she replied, wondering if she was making a terrible mistake.

“I’ll be in touch.”

He’d ended the call just as Andy’s ranch came into view, and she immediately wondered if it had been coincidence or if he was somehow watching her too. But with a white knuckle grip on the steering wheel, and shaking so badly she could barely turn her car into the driveway, she tried to focus. Slowly driving forward, she rolled through the gates, came to a stop, then took in several, long breaths. Finally climbing out, she spied Andy with the dogs up by the paddocks. He suddenly looked up, then waved and began jogging towards her. Seeing the big Belgian Malinois gallop ahead of him, and her little fluffy dog trying to keep up almost brought tears to her eyes.

“Hey, darlin’, how did it go?” he asked as he reached her, then narrowing his eyes he quickly added, “What’s happened?”

“Kenny. He called and threatened me and I’m really scared.”

Before Andy could respond Molly barked, wanting Helen’s attention. Though she was still shaking she picked up the little dog and cuddled her.

“My precious pup,” she crooned, loving the feel of her soft fur. “I’m so glad I found you.”

“Come inside and tell me everything,” Andy said, placing an arm around her shoulders and guiding her towards the house. “Damn, girl, you’re tremblin’.”

“He said some awful things, and I don’t know how he did it without being seen, but he was watching mom and dad’s house…or someone was and reported back to him.”

“We’ll let the sheriff know, but I want to hear everything first.”

* * *

Still holding Molly, Helen relayed the frightening conversation. When she’d finished Andy sat quietly for a few minutes, then picked up his phone.

“I’ll call the sheriff, then we’re doin’ something to get your mind off all this.”

“Wait, before you call him, what do you think?” she asked urgently.

“I think Ken Lockhart is a cowardly thug. While I’m talkin’ to him, get changed. We’re goin’ for a ride with the dogs up Smoky Hill.”

“But Molly’s a small dog. Will she be okay?”

“She’s not a teacup poodle,” he replied with a chuckle. “She’ll have a blast, and we won’t be gallopin’ up the hill. Besides, Ranger will take care of her.”