Page 63 of Gideon

“This way,” Cole said, leading him to an empty section of the parking lot where he’d parked his cruiser.

“What do you want?” Gideon said.

Fairfax looked startled by the question. “What any mayor would want, to make sure one of his citizens is okay.”

“I’m not one of your citizens.”

“No. But you saved one. You’re a brave man. I have been known to give awards out at ceremonies from time to time for those who deserve it.”

“You came here with Deputy Cole to tell me you wanted to give me a ribbon?”

“No, actually. I wanted you to know that we’re looking into the cause of the fire.”

“I should think that goes without saying.”

“If it had been deemed an accident, that would be the end of it.”

“But it’s not?”

“No. It looks like it was deliberately lit.”

Cole shifted on his feet, drawing Gideon’s attention. The deputy had a smug grin on his face.

“Lit by who,” Gideon asked Fairfax.

“Like I said, we’re looking into it. But I thought you should know. Especially after what happened. I’d take it as a warning if I were you.”

“You mean the totem poles?”

“I don’t imagine you’re surprised.”

“That someone has purposely burned down my dad’s business and his residence, almost killing him? Yeah, it’s a little surprising.”

“After what you did? That was seen as sacrilege to some—to alotof people in my town.”

“A lot of people? I know some in the town believe they had power.”

“I’ve spoken to many angry individuals. I’ve done what I can to calm them down, but I can’t control them.”

“Their response to a couple of wooden poles getting cut down is to not only burn down half a town block but also kill someone?”

“No one died.”

“Only because I went in and saved him. By the way, why haven’t you arrested me yet for destroying property?”

Fairfax shrugged. “I’m considering my options. Would jail deter you? I’m not so sure. You have a file with us.”

“What are you, the FBI?”

“You weren’t quite a model citizen growing up, now, were you?”

“I’m not a kid anymore.”

“It establishes a pattern of behavior. When you left town, the trouble stopped. Now you’re back, and look what’s happened.”

“Is there a point to this conversation? Because my ride will be here soon.”

“Good. Have them drop you off somewhere outside of town.”

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