Page 146 of In Cold Blood

“And there was me thinking they were going to appoint you.”

She laughed. “Oh, sure. Fresh off probation. I’m a long way off.”

“But one day. One day I think you’d do well.”

“You think?”

“Have a little faith. Besides, it’s all downhill from here.”

She laughed. “Seriously though, with your family’s background. You would have a foot in the door. I know you would be perfect for the position.”

“Maybe, but that’s not up to me. It’s up to the people.”

“Oh, I’m sure they could be swayed.”

There was a short pause.

“Let me guess. Hugh Sutherland?”

“Ah, he said it was worth a shot.” She laughed again. “Do you ever call him your father?”

“Sometimes. He just doesn’t give up.”

“Can you blame him? He speaks highly of you, Noah, if that’s any consolation.”

“I know,” he said. While they hadn’t exactly put things to rest between them, he could tell his father was trying. “But the thing is, Callie, right now, I think I could be of more use to the county as a BCI investigator. I’m not restricted to a town or the county but my reach would extend to five counties. And now that a friend of mine at Troop B has offered me a position, I’m chewing it over.”

“You’re thinking of moving back?”

“Hey, I didn’t say that. And don’t you go telling anyone — especially Hugh. Nothing is firm.”

“Yet,” she replied with a hint of excitement.

“Thorne, apply the brakes. I didn’t say that was good news.”

“Noah. It’s okay to show some enthusiasm. That’s why we do this job, isn’t it?”

Noah scoffed. “Ah… you have a lot to learn, grasshopper.”

After a few more comments the call came to a close.

On the outskirts of town,Noah stopped and stood at the edge of the road to say a final goodbye to Luke. Even though he wasn’t buried on Route 73, that desolate stretch of road would forever hold a connection to his brother.

Crouched in front of the memorial, he was reading some of the newer cards placed, ones that spoke of justice found. The deep, throaty growl of a motorcycle approaching made him look over his shoulder. It was like a distant rumble, like thunder on the horizon, but soon became a roar. The sound was unmistakable.

Kitted out in black leather, Alicia Michaels drew near on her Ducati as the ground vibrated. She killed the engine and pulled off her motorcycle helmet, allowing her long hair to cascade over her shoulders.

“You leaving again without saying goodbye?” she asked.

“Don’t you ever call?”

“Would you answer?”

He rose. “I might surprise you.”

Alicia drew near, holding the helmet in one hand.

“You know I’m out a cabin.”