Page 23 of Evergreen Desires (Wildheart Chronicles #1)
BEAU
"Let's address the current situation," Chief Mateo said with a small grin at Will before shifting his attention to me and Jake, who stood off to the side.
I walked the three of them down the tree line, recounting the events of last night, providing additional details about the dual nature of the farm. I pointed out factors like the farm road that led to the other side where Will's cabin was located.
Drawing closer to the spot where everything unfolded, Jake explained how he stumbled upon the two men and their conversation. Mateo diligently took notes, showing a keen interest in listening rather than bombarding us with questions. Occasionally, he asked for clarifications.
"So, two voices? Did you happen to recognize them?" Mateo asked, his pen frozen over his notepad.
"Sorry, but no." Jake shook his head. "I'm still new to town, and I haven't really ventured out much yet. The few times I have, it's usually to one of the neighboring towns for errands or to grab dinner. "
"I understand. I know it was dark, but did you see anything that might help identify them? Shoes, clothing, facial hair, anything?" Mateo probed further.
"No, I'm sorry," Jake admitted.
"That's okay." Mateo turned his attention back to me.
"I don't see any cameras here around the greenhouse.
I know it might not make sense in the long run, but you might want to consider installing some motion lights nearby for added security.
" He pointed at the greenhouse, probably trying to be helpful.
"You're right. There are no security cameras here.
However, I did set up some wildlife trail cameras further out.
" I noticed a flicker of surprise in Mateo's eyes as I answered him.
His breath quickened, and he glanced over in the direction of the trail cameras.
There was a general uneasiness about him out here that he was trying to suppress.
"I noticed some footprints a few days ago and wanted to take precautions.
I figured it might be teenagers or something of the sort.
I never expected Jake to stumble upon them or that they would be planning a break-in.
I should have done more." I caught a glimpse of Jake, and our gazes held for a moment too long before I looked back down, feeling a tinge of guilt for not protecting him well enough.
"Trail cams, huh? Are they motion-activated? Did you happen to capture any pictures of the men?" Mateo's questions seemed rushed, and I couldn’t determine if it was due to the possibility of a break in the case or something… else .
"Yes, they're motion-activated, but they didn't capture anything relevant. Just a couple of squirrels, a random opossum, and a blurry image of what I think is a large fox or maybe a wolf. But we don't have wolves here in the Olympics, so that would be odd."
"Hmm. I see. If you do capture something in the future, please let me know.
My guess is they won't be back now that they were nearly caught.
I'll file a report and keep it on record, just in case.
In the meantime, I'll make a point to drive by at night, checking for any parked cars or suspicious activity.
Is it okay for me to drive up the driveways and through the farm path to the other side? "
"Of course, that's absolutely fine. Thank you for your assistance.
" I extended my hand to shake his. "Just be aware that we do have.
.. bears... that occasionally roam the farm at night.
So, exercise caution as you drive through.
You know what they say, 'Don't poke the bear.
'" I flashed a smile, attempting to appear nonchalant despite the guilt that lingered within me.
"No problem. I believe in protecting wildlife too," Mateo said with a wink as we turned to walk back towards the front. "Thanks for all the information, and I'm glad you're both safe. Please tell Will that I'll reconnect with him for the greenhouse tour at some point."
"Will do," I replied.
Hmm, that was an odd interaction. Nice guy, I like him, and I know Will does, too.
But there was something about Mateo's demeanor today that struck me as off. I couldn’t quite put my finger on it, but there was an uneasiness lingering in the pit of my stomach.
I couldn’t help but wonder if he had any secrets of his own.