Page 28

6

The minutes continued to pass.

Mike meant what he said. When this was over, he would make up for whatever assholery he had sent in Shelby Jacobson’s direction.The woman worked tirelessly. She and Darrell Mabry. She spoke with confidence when speaking about what she needed to do next. When she gave orders to the teams they’d formed to comb through the wreckage.

She’d saved lives today.

Including Elliot Marshall, the chief. Shelby had gotten him out with nothing but a carjack. Marshall was out now. Daryn was examining him. “Concussion, sir. And at least two broken ribs. We need to get you to the hospital.”

“I have people in that building, plus visitors. I’m staying until every one of them is out.”The chief’s tone was firm. No one argued.No one ever argued with the chief. He turned toward Mike. “How many wounded, dead? Accounted for?”

“Two confirmed deceased,” Daryn answered. She named them quickly and described how they’d been found.

“Magda Journey and Madison McAlister are cataloging people as we find them. Keeping a running total,” Mike told him. “Most of Major Crimes and half the forensics staff are still missing. We don’t… know how many we had out in the field. Haldyn Harris and her team are still missing. They were out on a scene. And with people moving around, and transporting to the hospitals, our counts are fluid. It’ll take more time to know for certain.”

The chief squinted at him. It was a wonder the man was still cognizant. “Just keep me posted. I want to know… everyone. No matter what, Mike. Keep me posted.”

Mike nodded. He was going to do everything he could.