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Forrest’s expression hardened at something ahead. I looked and saw Olivia sitting at a picnic table while Bruno chatted with two police officers nearby.

What crime could possibly occur at a luxury campground?

CHAPTERELEVEN

FORREST

I should have known seeing Bruno meant trouble was nearby. One camp representative spoke on the phone while Nora—the friendly receptionist who had told me where to find Kiera—spoke to a female police officer.

A few other occupants stood around, who probably already had their interviews. From my quick research, people considered this campground first-rate because of the breathtaking views. It offered exceptional sceneries along the hiking trails and lake. Some cabins were owned by residents who lived here year around.

“There she is.” Olivia gestured to Kiera. “Maybe she saw something that could help find the asshole.”

Kiera rushed over to her peer. “What happened?”

“Someone ransacked my room while I was out. Bruno also got attacked from behind. He has a huge bump on his head.”

I placed a hand on Kiera’s arm. “Be right back. I’ll check on Bruno.”

As I walked toward Bruno,Hank stood with an older woman wearing a headband in her gray hair. “Everything’s going to be fine, dear.”

A bearded police officer wearing a cowboy hat sneered at Hank. Hank squirmed into the woman’s arm. Then the officer made a face, frightening him.

What the fuck?

“Leave my son alone,” said the woman. “Let’s go, honey. There’s nothing to be afraid of.”

The officer rolled his eyes and tipped his hat. “Y’all have a good day.”

“Why are you traumatizing him?” I asked the officer as he walked past me.

“It was a joke.” He smirked.

“Do you see him laughing? Is an assault a laughing matter? Do you find people who are frightened or injured amusing?” This man was supposed to serve the people. “Is that what they teach you at the police academy?”

He flicked a dismissive glance at me and strode over to join the other police officers chatting with Bruno.

As a doctor, I had treated all kinds of patients. Trying to empathize with people and see things from their perspective made me a better doctor. I’d dealt with people like Hank, who had a disability obtained either from birth, trauma, or brain injury. These people had a tough time comprehending and explaining things to others. And this asshole—who should defuse the situation—made it worse.

I walked up to Bruno, who rubbed the back of his head. “What happened to you?”

If I were a nice man, I would’ve asked to look at his injuries, but I didn’t feel so generous. Besides, it appeared like the EMT had already taken care of him.

Maybe Bruno brought the assault on himself.

“Some asshole hit me with a rock and ran off. I tried to chase after him, but then I heard someone scream from inside the lodge.”

An officer with sharp blue eyes turned to me as a bug flew and landed on the rim of his cowboy hat. “I’m Detective DavidDonnelly. Are you camping at the lodge?”

“No.”

“He’s working with FitFlex,” Bruno chimed in.

“Do you mind if we ask you some questions?”

“Not at all,” I said as the bearded officer who had harassed Hank earlier approached Bruno. He met my eyes for a second before looking away.

“How long were you here? Did you see anyone suspicious?”