“You think I had something to do with that?”
“You’re the only strangers in these parts. Do you blame me?”
“Is it possible you have another motorcycle club in your territory?”
“How did you….” Dutch fell silent for a beat, then said, “Have you seen another MC around here?”
Seth laughed. “How would I know? I haven’t met all the members of Blackthorn. I sure wouldn’t recognize someone who wasn’t from your MC.”
“That’s true,” Dutch conceded. “I could use a hand with these bodies. My Old Lady is very upset.”
“I understand. I’m sorry we can’t be of service to you. We have a meeting with our president in about five minutes.”
“I see. I’ll let you get to your meeting then. I’ll see you later today.”
Iona frowned. After Seth ended the call, she said, “Was that a threat?”
“I’d take it as one,” Elias said. “That call was a feeler. Dutch is suspicious, but he doesn’t have any proof we’re to blame for losing Blackthorn and Reckoner members.”
“All the more reason we should leave Red Rock as soon as possible.” Noah helped Violet clean up the medical detritus. “Need anything else from your mike bag?” he asked.
She shook her head. “The bag should go in the truck’s cab in case someone needs a Band-Aid.” She stared at Elias.
He chuckled. “I think I’m fine for the moment. Thanks.”
“Still, I want the bag in the truck’s cab for quick access.”
Grant walked into the kitchen from the back door. “Truck’s ready.”
“Load up,” Seth ordered as he made a call. “Z, it’s Seth. We need an address for Christopher Merriweather and anything else you have on him.”
“What’s your plan?”
“Early morning house call, then we’re leaving Red Rock.”
“Do you have the information?”
“We’re hoping Merriweather has it. Even if he doesn’t, things are growing too hot here. I don’t want our teams caught in the crossfire.”
“Copy that. You should see the information I’ve put together in your Fortress email now.”
“Thanks, man.”
“Yep. Let me know when you leave the cabin and make sure you have your comm devices in your ears. I’ll monitor things from here.”
“You have a satellite in range?”
“Several. I might use a military satellite and two of ours in the next few minutes. But you didn’t hear that from me.”
“Hear what?” Seth grinned. “Thanks, Z. We owe you.”
“Just come back safe. That’s all the thanks I want.”
“Same. I’ll tell you in about two minutes to join the loop, so you might as well stay on the line with me.”
“Copy.” He went silent.
“Grab your gear and load up. Comm devices in your ears.”
