The Texas Ranger's Family Read online

  When he lifted the lid, she gasped.

  “Well, well. Two firearms. Both .45-caliber Colt automatics,” he muttered and picked them up one at a time. “They’re loaded, ready to go.”

  Natalie’s hand covered her mouth. The police had been to her house but they hadn’t been in the attic.

  “Now we know at least one item the intruder was looking for. It’s clear your husband knew this person and gave him a key to get into the house. Since Rod was killed before this person could find out where the guns were hidden, it makes me think there was a third party involved in all this.”

  “Anyone that desperate should have realized the attic was the perfect place to hide them,” Natalie commented. Certainly she hadn’t thought of it. But Kit wasn’t like other people. He had the instincts only a few men were blessed with. That’s why he was a Texas Ranger.

  “Maybe he was afraid you’d get back from the funeral before he could search the attic and be found in the act.” He shot her a piercing glance. “Thank God, you didn’t go in the house when you saw the state of the garage. If that person had still been in there, he could have taken you hostage.”

  Or worse.

  Natalie weaved in place and grabbed the back of a chair for support.

  Kit closed the suitcase. “I’ll take this to Forensics in the morning. Excuse me while I put the ladder away.”

  When he came back into the kitchen, he removed the gloves and tossed them in the trash. “Let’s go sit in the living room.” He motioned for her to lead the way and she settled into an armchair. He went to the den for his laptop before sitting on the couch.

  “I spent most of the afternoon at LifeSpan and discovered how your husband was cheating the company. Right around the time he started working for them seven years ago, he set up a dummy corporation that looked like any of the dozens of companies LifeSpan pays for their services. But, of course, it didn’t perform a service.

  “The money went straight to a bank where it was deposited into a falsified account. He made constant withdrawals and pocketed the money under another of his assumed names.”

  Natalie was scandalized. “What did he do with it?”

  “It’s my guess he invested it in various ventures—real estate, maybe—under yet another alias to hide what he was doing. The point is, the auditor who worked under your husband couldn’t understand why the offsite, independent auditor hadn’t caught the problem years ago.”

  “That’s horrible.”

  “Agreed. He stole millions from the company. It seems likely to me your husband bribed an independent auditor to go into business with him and paid him a percentage for looking the other way. Or that person was a criminal like Rod. Your husband was fired a month ago when the independent auditor couldn’t be found to substantiate Rod’s claims that he’d done nothing wrong. The FBI is staging a full investigation.”

  She stirred restlessly. “I hope that money can be recovered and given back to LifeSpan.”

  “I could wish for the same thing, but my main concern right now is to keep you safe until we know who invaded your home and the culprit is arrested. Let’s hope your friend in Phoenix has some information that can help. Give me a minute to make the reservation.”

  Kit pulled out his cell phone and got to work and it didn’t take him long before he was tucking it back in his pocket. “I have to take the guns to the lab, so we’ll drop them off on the way to the airport. Our US Air flight will leave at eight-thirty and put us in Phoenix by ten-ten. That means we’ll have to leave here by 6:15 a.m. Does that work for you?”

  She nodded. “Amy’s already asleep. I’ll get everything packed and be ready.”

  “Good. Do you mind if I do some wash right now? The clerical shirt is drip dry, so there’s no problem.”

  “Of course, I don’t mind, but I can do it for you.”

  “Thanks, but no. I’ve fended for myself for years. To be surprised with a dinner you fixed was a treat I didn’t expect.”

  “In that case I’ll phone Colette right now.”

  While he gathered his things to take to the laundry room, she called her friend and gave her the time and terminal. “One more thing, Colette. The Ranger will be dressed in a blue shirt with a collar, like a priest.”

  “You’re kidding—”

  “It’s a long story. I’ll tell you the details after we get there. If anyone should ask, he’s my cousin, Father Todd Segal.”

  “Natalie—”

  “I know it sounds bizarre, but he’s saving my life, literally.”

  “I believe you. See you tomorrow morning. Do I dare tell you I can’t wait to meet him? A real Texas Ranger?”

  “Yeah. I’m still having trouble taking it all in.”

  “What’s he like?”

  Natalie wasn’t going there. “He’s the personification of the perfect Ranger.”

  “I get it. Code for gorgeous, right?”

  Right. Something had to be wrong with her to be talking like a high school girl to Colette when she was in the middle of a grave situation that could cost more lives.

  “I’ll see you tomorrow, Colette.”

  She hung up, afraid to say anything else because Kit had come back into the living room. Natalie looked up at him. “I’m going to go pack a suitcase for Amy and me, and then get to bed so I can wake up in time for our flight.”

  He nodded. “Get a good sleep. While we’re gone tomorrow, another surveillance team will watch the house.”

  “Kit?” she said in a tremulous voice, getting to her feet.

  “What is it?”

  “Thank you for everything you’re doing. I’m so grateful I don’t know how I’ll ever be able to repay you.”

  “This is my job, Natalie.”

  “I know, but you’ve helped me get through one of the darkest periods of my life. You’ve restored my faith in the idea that there are good men out there, although probably not many as exceptional as you. Good night.”

  * * *

  NATALIE’S WORDS CAUSED Kit’s throat to swell. For the first time since working as a Ranger, Kit had become personally involved in a case. He had no business caring about her or her daughter except on a professional basis, but it had happened, anyway. If he were honest with himself, he could admit to a strong physical attraction to her at the cemetery before they’d even met. It was the kind of chemistry that couldn’t be explained.

  The only thing to do from here on out was to focus on the case and cut out all ideas of spending unnecessary time with her, such as watching a movie together before they went to bed. Concentrate, Saunders, or you’re in big trouble.

  He turned out lights, secured the doors and got ready for bed. He still wasn’t ready to sleep so he checked for new messages on his laptop. The response from the police in Denver sparked his interest first and he opened it to find the rap sheet on Jeremy Roos Salter. So he was in the criminal database!

  Jeremy Roos Salter, 33. Born: Denver, Colorado. Home address: Lima Street. Aliases: Jessie James, Walter James, Sal Jameson. Currently serving a life sentence at Atwater Federal Penitentiary, Northern California, for arson, aggravated assault and the murder of two police officers. Incarcerated seven years ago.

  That meant Harold and Jeremy could have been committing crimes all through their teens before the law caught had up with them. The visit to Gladys Park had produced a big lead for Kit. He intended to fly to California to have a talk with Salter.

  While he was still up he called Information to find out if there were any Salters living in Denver. There were quite a few, but none on Lima. Tomorrow he’d phone every listing. Maybe he’d stumble across someone related to Jeremy or who could tell him something about the family that once lived on that street.

  Stan had sent him a message saying the thumbprint found on the lid of the laptop
had been sent to the criminal database because it hadn’t matched Mrs. Harris’s prints or her husband’s. He’d requested that the results be sent to Kit ASAP, and Kit was anxious to see them.

  One last item of business before he quit for the night. He reached for his cell and texted his brother.

  No time to call hospital. Give Scott my condolences. Won’t be in Texas this weekend. Hope you find a hazer fast. Kit.

  He put down his phone and closed his laptop, refusing to feel guilty. For years he’d watched out for Brandon, but this was one time his duty to work came first. But a nagging little voice reminded him it wasn’t all duty, not where Natalie was concerned. Not by a long shot.

  * * *

  “THERE’S COLETTE. SHE’S wearing the yellow blouse and cowboy boots,” Natalie said as they walked off the plane into Terminal Four on Wednesday morning.

  Her friend’s long, chestnut-brown hair rippled as she hurried toward them and hugged both Natalie and the baby. “It’s so good to see you.”

  “I feel the same. Colette, meet my cousin, Father Segal.”

  Colette smiled at Kit and shook his hand. “I’m so glad to meet you, Father. I’m thrilled you’re helping Natalie through this difficult time.”

  “It’s my pleasure.”

  “Since I know you’re in a hurry, I thought we’d go up to the third level and have a meal in the restaurant. They have high chairs. Maybe Amy will let me hold her after we’re seated.”

  “I’m sure she will.”

  “Let’s go.”

  Kit followed the women, carrying the diaper bag and car seat. The restaurant Colette had chosen was the perfect place for an interview.

  Once they’d ordered lunch Natalie excused herself and took Amy to the restroom where she could change her diaper. Kit handed her the bag.

  His eyes lingered on her retreating figure, dressed in a peach-colored top and jeans that outlined the soft curve of her hips. With those long legs and that honey-blond hair, he was sure every male in the place must be watching her progress.

  The reason he was there at all suddenly dawned on him and he switched his gaze to Natalie’s friend. “I appreciate your being able to meet us here, especially since I hear your husband is still recovering from an operation.”

  “I’d do anything for Natalie and my husband is much better—he plans to go to work tomorrow. I just hope I can help you.”

  “Whatever you can tell me about the woman you saw with Rod Harris will be useful. I’ll be recording our conversation.” She nodded. “Could you describe her physically for me?”

  “She couldn’t have been more than five-two, five-three. She had a small frame, maybe a hundred and ten pounds.”

  “What about her hairstyle?”

  “Dramatic. Her hair was long and black. She had it swept around back and coiled near the top of her head with a clip. She had dark brown eyes.”

  “Race?”

  “Her coloring made think she was Hispanic.”

  “Did she speak with an accent?”

  “No, not that I noticed.”

  The waitress arrived with their food and, after she excused herself, Kit resumed his questioning. “How was she dressed?”

  “Very stylish. A designer-type dress and high heels. She went a little heavy on the makeup. You’re probably surprised I noticed so much, but it was because she was so striking, almost like a fashion model. Rod said she was Natalie’s cousin, but I found that surprising because I’d never heard about her.”

  “I wish all the witnesses I interrogated had your memory. Did he introduce her by name?”

  “He said something like Myra or Mara, but he was in a hurry and I didn’t quite catch it.”

  “That’s fine.”

  “I wish I’d been more observant,” Colette murmured. “Now that I know the truth, I guess he just wanted to get her out of there as fast as he could.”

  “I’m sure of it. Did she have a suitcase with her? Maybe a tag that would identify where she’d come from or where she was going?”

  “Not that I recall. I was in a hurry myself.”

  Kit nodded. “How did he treat her? Like a friend or a lover?”

  “I didn’t pick up on anything more than that they knew each other.”

  “Do you remember the car he was driving?”

  Colette frowned. “I think he was standing next to a white car, but I can’t be positive.”

  “Good,” he said as Natalie returned and put Amy in the high chair. The little girl pointed to him. “Kit.”

  “Hi, sweetheart.” He put a cracker on the tray for her.

  Natalie’s friend broke into a smile. “She knows you.”

  “She catches on fast.” He smiled back.

  “Amy has her mother’s smarts. One day I hope to have a baby as adorable as this one.”

  “I’m sure you will.” Natalie’s spring green eyes darted to Kit. “Sorry I was gone so long. The place was crowded. Forgive me if I’m interrupting you.”

  His gaze played over her. “There’s nothing to forgive. I’ve already asked all my questions pertaining to the case. Colette here has a keen eye—she remembered details I wouldn’t have expected. It helps immensely.”

  The three adults started to eat their lunches and Amy munched happily on her crackers. Kit addressed Natalie’s old friend.

  “Tell me about your barrel riding days, Colette. Do you still compete at the rodeo?”

  “Not anymore. Sounds like Natalie has been telling tales out of school.”

  “That’s because you were an excellent barrel racer,” Natalie countered. “And guess what? Kit—I mean, Father Segal’s brother is a steer wrestler. In fact he’s competing at Nationals in Las Vegas in December.”

  Colette’s eyes lit up. “What’s his name?”

  “Brandon Saunders from the Lazy S Ranch in Marble Falls, Texas.”

  “Father Segal used to compete in the same event,” Natalie interjected.

  “Really. How come you’re not still riding?”

  “My career forced me to give it up.”

  “That happened to me, too. Those were the good old days. I’ll have to keep an eye on your brother’s numbers. When is his next event?”

  “Saturday night in San Antonio, but I don’t know how he’ll do because he lost his hazer this week.”

  Natalie’s smile faded. “What happened?”

  “His hazer, Scott, was in a car accident and has a broken leg. Brandon’s got to find a replacement, fast.”

  Colette finished the last of her sandwich. “Good ones are hard to come by. That’s bad luck. I feel sorry for both of them. Hazers are almost invisible unless they make a mistake, but a bull dogger couldn’t get a low score without an outstanding one to keep that steer close.”

  Her comment made Kit feel even guiltier.

  She looked at Natalie. “How soon is your return flight?”

  “In an hour. We’ll go downstairs in a few minutes. Amy has almost finished.”

  Natalie had been feeding her a jar of chicken and stars. Kit couldn’t get over what a great little traveler she was.

  “In that case I’m going to leave you two in time to get some grocery shopping done before I drive home.” She rose and hugged the baby and Natalie. Then she turned to Kit. “It’s been a pleasure meeting you, Father Segal.”

  He got to his feet. “Thank you for getting together on such short notice. Your testimony is more helpful than you know. If you think of anything else, don’t hesitate to call me on my cell. Here’s my card.” He handed it to her.

  “I promise.” She started to dig through her purse but Kit shook his head. “This lunch is on me. Drive safely.”

  “I will.” Her glance rested on Natalie. “We’ll talk soon.”

&n
bsp; “I’ll call you. Thank you again.”

  Colette made her exit and Natalie wiped Amy’s face and hands, then turned to Kit. “We’re ready to go downstairs. Amy’s been awake since first thing this morning, so I think she’ll probably nap most of the way home.”

  “She’s been a model child—honors go to her mother.”

  “I can’t take the credit. She came this way.”

  Kit decided not to argue. But he’d watched how Natalie handled her daughter and could tell she was a terrific parent.

  He left money for the bill on the table, picked up the bag and car seat, and ushered the girls out of the restaurant, anxious to get back to Austin. It pleased him that he and Natalie would be going home together. He found himself enjoying her company more than he should.

  His thoughts returned to the case. Stan should be getting back to him with the rest of the information on the fingerprints. He was also eager for the FBI agent to send him the background on the missing independent auditor for LifeSpan. As for the black hairs found in Rod’s car, they might be a match for the hair on the woman Colette had seen with Park. She could be an unsuspecting girlfriend or she might be an accomplice, corrupt to the crown of her head.

  There was a lot Kit needed to go through and analyze. But he decided that while he was waiting for more answers, he would fly to California in the morning and speak to Salter. Hopefully he could get it all in and be home by tomorrow night. He couldn’t get this case solved fast enough.

  Chapter Five

  After a homemade spaghetti dinner, Natalie gave Amy her bath and put her down for the night. She’d grown restless on the airplane and hadn’t napped the way Natalie had hoped. Kit had taken over and held her for a while, playing with her toes. Amy had loved it when Kit pointed to each toe; laughed each time he touched one. The stimulation had kept her awake, but happy. Now what she needed was a good night’s sleep.

  Natalie found Kit in the den, laptop open while he talked business on the phone. He saw her and motioned for her to come in. She sat in one of the comfortable armchairs, pleasantly tired. It had been great to see Colette again, but their visit had been too brief.