Page 75 of Lethal Deceit

“That sounds like superstition,” I mutter.

They both look at me like I just missed the obvious.

Silas’s voice is calm but sharp. “There’s good and there’s evil. Whether you believe it or not doesn’t change who’s pulling the strings.”

Thankfully, I don’t have to reiterate that I don’t believe him because Adena arrives, out of breath, drawing their attention away from me.

“Caleb’s in place and has a good view of the house, but he’s sweating like a pig and needs water and shelter. I gave him what I had,” she says. To prove her point, she uncaps a water bottle and guzzles half as Mick looks to Silas for confirmation.

“I’ll go,” Mick says.

Silas shakes his head. “Luke’s on his way. He’s taking an airboat. They aren’t leaving without us knowing about it.”

Mick holds his gaze then blows out a breath. “I’m going nuts here. I need something to do.”

Silas’s reply is interrupted by Jake returning.

“Well?” Mick asks him.

Jake pulls out his phone. “It’s like Caleb said. Only one road in. But I found this. It’s a rental, and there’s a view of the house. Sending you all the link.”

They all pull out their phones, leaving me empty-handed and out of the loop.

“Nice find, Rookie. Internal access to the garage,” Adena says.

Silas bobs his head. “We’ll use a minivan. Adena, you and Jake can sit up front and play the role of new parents. We’ll take the back.”

Jake chuckles. “You’re going to have to take the twins for a walk while I unpack.”

Adena groans. “That’s so sexist. Why can’tyoutake them this time?”

While Mick and I exchange a look, Reese joins the conversation. “No seaplanes rented to that area, but that doesn’t mean they haven’t found another way.”

“Luke will confirm that when he arrives.” Silas checks his watch. “Jake, go find a rental, and donotsteal anything. Adena, take Samantha and go hunting in the office for anything useful. Reese…”

At my inclusion, my stomach dips to my toes and back again. Mick offers me a half smile.

While Reese’s back straightens in expectation, Silas’s instruction makes the blood drain from Mick’s face. “Go get your wife.”

Reese grimaces at him then looks across at Mick. “As a precaution.”

Mick tries to shake it off. “If there is another bomb, there’s no one I’d rather be there.”

A shiver runs down my spine as Adena crooks her finger at me. “Come on.”

I feel an element of panic at going with her, but I don’t exactly have any other option. I’m completely at Hightower’s mercy, and I get the feeling that’s exactly what they wanted.

Mick

As I watch Samantha depart with Adena, my anxiety cranks up a little. “Is that a good idea?”

His brow creases. “You don’t trust her?”

I jam my hands into my pockets. “To a certain extent. But we’re literally at an airport. The cops are still looking for her.”

“You think she’ll escape through the window again?”

I scratch my head, thinking of what will happen to Brooke if Samantha disappears. “The thought did cross my mind.”

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