Page 62 of Smokescreen

“It can’t hurt to hear what he has to say. He could have a good explanation.”

Olive agreed with a nod. “When I have the chance, I’ll see what he says.”

Trick’s gaze locked on hers. “Be careful, Olive.”

“You too.”

The stakes would only continue to rise as they got closer to the answers.

In the meantime, they needed to be prepared for anything.

CHAPTER 26

Two hours later, the barbecue was in full swing. And, boy, did the food smell good.

Olive’s original fear about leaving this assignment ten pounds heavier seemed more realistic than ever.

Rows and rows of ribs stretched across the smoker. Miriam had made potato salad and coleslaw and homemade rolls. Their guests had brought sides, desserts, and drinks.

Now Olive would get to see Wyoming at its best.

She’d met all of the neighbors who’d come. The ranch hands and staff were also able to participate. Some had brought their children and spouses. There was a true sense of community.

If Olive ever decided to get out of her current line of work and settle down somewhere, maybe a ranch like this wouldn’t be a bad place to do so.

And to think someone was trying to ruin all this.

It didn’t seem right.

Reid must have seen her standing quietly by herself because he sauntered over to her. “Enjoying yourself?”

“It seems like a great community you have out here. I always imagined living out in the country like this you’d be isolated. But it’s obvious you’re not.”

“Not here. You have to depend on others to help you survive.” He scanned everyone at his place again.

Olive had counted fifty-four people here, including children. So far, all of them had seemed pleasant.

But her impression was that out of all the people present, Reid was the wealthiest. Did anyone resent him for that? Envy him?

He lowered his voice. “Have you seen anything suspicious?”

Olive scanned the crowd again and fought a smile as two kids ran circles around Trick and tried to rope him. “Not yet. But I’ve been keeping my eyes open.”

“I had no doubt about that.” He nodded at Cooper, who was teaching a kid who looked about eight years old how to lasso. “I saw you watching him earlier. Any reason why?”

“You’re observant. And, yes, there is a reason. I hadn’t had a chance to bring it up yet. But Hannah indicated that Daphne and Cooper seemed to have a close relationship.

“What?” Reid’s voice rose with surprise. “That’s the first I’ve heard of it.”

She shrugged. “It’s something to keep in mind.”

Someone called him over, and Reid excused himself.

As he sauntered away, someone else caught her eye. Dippy.

He glanced around to see if anyone was watching—and clearly didn’t see her. Then he headed away from the crowd.

Where exactly was he going?