“What I’m getting at is that there is a prime piece of real estate that would be of even greater value if turned into a high dollar resort community. Potentially with the stadium as an anchor. New shops. New entertainment. Townhouses. The recently renovated resort. A mecca for out-of-towners.”
“Are you making accusations?” Oliver tossed out.
“Of course not. I’m simply putting a few pieces of the puzzle together as to why the stadium would be on hold.”
“You’re suggesting your father Bartholomew Sterling is involved with arson?” Mitch was genuinely confused.
“Of course not. There is no secret that my client has fallen onto hard times. This project and this rodeo will provide him with financial opportunities he wouldn’t otherwise have, Mr. Sheffield. Now, as I said, I can understand some timing issues because of the changes made to your council membership, but given there are no issues, I’ll expect to have the full approval in my inbox by eight in the morning.”
I gathered my things, walking toward the door.
“That sounds very much like a threat, Ms. Sterling.”
Jack’s voice had started to become grating.
“Oh, please.” I turned around. The plastic smile was getting old since I was pissed off. However, they’d never know it. “I’m an attorney. It would be immoral and illegal of me to make any threats. However, since I’ve been involved with corporate law for my entire career, including dealing with those who truly do either cut corners or use methods of extortion to pad their bank account, I’ve learned a valuable lesson. Follow the money. It tells no lies. Now, have yourself a great day, gentlemen.”
I walked out, feeling as if I’d set the tone.
What that was, I wasn’t certain.
Without looking back, I headed outside, taking a deep breath. I was positive I was on the right track. Now I just needed evidence.
I’d almost reached the truck when I felt a presence. That was the first time that I’d wished I was carrying a weapon.
I spun around, exhaling when seeing Mitch. “Mr. Sheffield.”
“I’m so sorry to startle you. I wanted to catch you before you left.”
“Okay. Did I miss something?”
“No, but I did want to warn you. While I have no proof, it’s my belief that Oliver and Malcolm bought their way onto the council.”
“For what reason?”
“You didn’t hear this from me. But there is a hush-hush project being considered. I don’t the details or I’d tell you more.”
“I appreciate you telling me.”
“I also wanted to warn you.”
“About?”
“Just be careful. You’re right about the money. And if there’s enough, people will do anything to keep it. I mean anything. I need to get back inside.”
The council member walked away and I wasn’t certain whether to be grateful for his warning or concerned.
Whatever the case, a cold shiver trickled down my spine.
CHAPTER 27
Axe
“Goddamn it,” I said as I glared at the aftermath of the horrific structural fire. While this one had been caused by pure stupidity from a campground fire that had been left unattended, it should have been handled by the local fire department. They’d been on other calls.
The fall of night was only thirty minutes away, the darkness oddly comforting. We’d kept the fire from crawling up the mountain, but it had raged hot.
The charred scene left not only a bad taste in my mouth, but also a series of nasty thoughts in my head. If only I’d been able to give the city council a piece of my mind.
