Chapter 34: Chapter 34: Rest Easy

Who could the contact be?

As I run to the stables, I don’t see anyone on the road. But there is a dust trail.

Someone recently took off.

The stable hand recognizes me from the ride with Ambrose. She quickly offers to saddle a ride for me. As soon as she hands me the reigns, I hop up and take off, pursuing the trail.

I track the rider through town, moving to the outskirts and down the path that leads to the cottage where Lucas was staying.

“Sh*t!” I say.

It’s quiet when I finally slow to a halt. I pause, listening for signs of another horse nearby. But the trees are silent. If they were here, they’re long gone now.

I hop off my horse, carefully approaching.

“Lucas?” I call out, retrieving my daggers.

There isn’t a sound.

I push open the door, peering inside. The living room looks tossed around like someone’s just been here.

I shove the door the rest of the way and step inside.

“Lucas!”

Silence.