Page 41 of Facing the Enemy

“I usually do. Why?”

“This time of year seems to bring you down.”

I glanced away. “Let me think about it.”

She nodded.

“Did you know the Big Bend National Park covers over eight hundred thousand acres?” I said.

“Huh?”

“The park where Carson is hiding out.”

“With that much rock and land, I hope he doesn’t take off again. Gage, I’ve been there, and he could walk across the Rio Grande into Mexico.”

“Which is why we must find him first. He might have been recruited by a cartel who has assured him safety once he’s across the border. I’m yanking on straws,” I said. “A part of me thinks he’s randomly running with no plan, while another part questions if he’s pulling us away from Houston into a trap.”

Risa swallowed hard. “I think the latter. He’s not an idiot, but he didn’t change his license plates.”

I pointed out the windshield. “Wow, the scenery and desert are gorgeous, especially the layers of colored rock.”

“Today isn’t one to enjoy the view.”

“I understand. Just trying to break into a tough subject.”

She tilted her head at me. “You’ve never had a problem speaking your mind to me before.”

“This is different. Risa, I have so many things to say, and I don’t know where to begin.”

I sensed her gaze settling on me, but I had my eyes fixed on the road. She smelled of freshness and gunpowder, sweetness and fire.

“I’m listening. That’s the least I can do with your helping me find Carson.”

“Not exactly, but the status of—”

My phone rang—SAC Dunkin—and I snatched it.

“Gage, are you in a position to talk?”

“Yes, sir. What’s up?”

“I got a phone call from Methodist Hospital. Jack suffered a heart attack related to the knife injury. He’s been rushed into surgery.”

I gripped the steering wheel, my knuckles white. “Not Jack. But he didn’t indicate a serious problem when he called me.”

“He lied. The knife pierced close to his heart, and he wasn’t aware of a previous heart condition. I’ll keep you posted.”

I placed my phone in the console and whirled to Risa.

“What’s wrong with Jack?” Her frantic words mirrored my troubled mind.

I repeated SAC Dunkin’s words.

“I’d suggest driving back to—”

“No, Risa. We need answers. The best way to help Jack is to find Carson.”

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