Laurel surveyed the assembled mess of rescue vehicles and police cars that lined the road’s edge. She chewed on her thumbnail, searching until she finally caught sight of the truck pulling in at the end of the row of cars. It was white, making it easier to spot the DOT logo on the side.
She rushed for the car just as a man got out and came forward.
“Gerald,” she said, half-relieved but half-nauseous with nerves.
“Laurel,” Gerald greeted her. In that one word was a small thread of warmth. He’d been the nicest man she’d worked for and the friendliest, still careful to keep a professional distance but willing to relax. To talk and joke with her. He was the only boss she’d ever had that let her forget she was a woman in a man’s workplace. For that, she was grateful and held a soft spot for him.
He frowned when she got closer and cast a glance at the work crews assembled. “What’s the status?” he asked. “Is it bad?”
her head. “I don’t know. Blue Bear Search and Rescue went in about twenty minutes ago. No word yet on whether they’ve spotted them or details regarding the
“Report said it was poachers. This party was a group
nodded and kept her game face on. If Gerald only knew she was more
still unclear,”
he grumbled. She ignored it, knowing he was
to worry you. You should get some rest. Enjoy
with a look and unease skittered
toward his truck, away
is it?” she
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