Page 90 of The Fragile Ones

“We’ll call the sheriff,” he said.

Katie agreed. “And I think you should sleep here tonight.”

“Well, Katie, I never knew you felt that way…” he said jokingly.

“Really? You can joke at a time like this?” she replied, half-smiling.

“You’re afraid to be alone?”

“Yeah, right. I’m just looking out for you. Thought you might get scared or knocked out again.” She smirked.

“No, you’re right. This place is bigger and everything is already here. Did you know that this couch pulls out into a bed?” He pulled a cushion from the back.

“I’ll ask Betty for some extra bedding.”

“And food,” he said.

“And food,” she chimed, realizing that her stomach was grumbly.

Within a half hour, Katie opened the door to Betty carrying sheets, blankets, pillows, and a bag of food.

“Oh wow, let me help you,” she said. “Thank you.” Katie passed the bedding to McGaven.

“I feel terrible about what you two have been through,” Betty said with genuine concern.

“Don’t worry about us, we’re police officers. We’re used to it,” said McGaven.

Betty put down a brown paper bag. “There are turkey sandwiches, some minestrone soup, assorted crackers, and something special for Cisco.”

The dog’s ears perked up when he heard his name.

“Thank you so much.”

“If you need anything else, don’t hesitate,” the older woman said.

“Oh, Betty, I don’t want to alarm you, but I need for you to be careful, especially after Gav got attacked. Please lock your doors to the office and your apartment, okay?”

“Of course I will. But I’m not scared.”

“Just the same, please lock up tight tonight.”

“I will. See you both in the morning.” She smiled and let herself out.

Katie threw another log into the fireplace and it crackled and popped, catching Cisco’s attention. “Okay, new suspects or persons of interest?”

“What about the chief?”

“What about him?” she said.

“He was the one that wanted us here, right, and now he’s done a complete disappearing act.”

“I see where you’re going, but what about the two officers? Wasn’t Mason acting a bit strange earlier?” she said.

“I agree. They all had access to the evidence and were the first to arrive at Robin Mayfield’s house.”

There was a chime on Katie’s cell phone. “Yes!” she said. “Finally. Here’s a link to the videos from the swing area in the week of the girls’ disappearance. Let me send it to your email.”

With a few clicks, McGaven said, “Got it.” He began to run through the days, seeking the afternoon of the abduction.