Free Canyon Shadows by Harper Vonna Page B

the cyclone enclosure where a few pieces of machinery were being stored. “Protection against vandalism?”
    “You know the answer to that,” Maco said. He hadn’t so much as shifted his weight since the “conversation” had begun. Still, she sensed his awareness of her. That cut both ways. “You don’t want me calling the sheriff.”
    “I helped get Bill elected. Campaigned for him. Same as him, I was born in this county.”
    “Your point?”
    “Just that it’s something you don’t want to forget about. Bill isn’t just a public official. He’s one of us.”
    In some respects, the men reminded her of dogs sniffing around each other while deciding whether it was better to bare their teeth or expose their bellies. However, she didn’t need to ponder what was going on between Maco and the newcomers. Hackles were raised all around.
    Something else. Having her dogs here evened the score—unless the men went for their rifles and Maco pulled out his gun.
    Damn but she hated the things, wished it were different.
    “I appreciate the heads-up,” Maco said. “And I have something for you to think about. The sheriff and his deputies have sworn to uphold the law. That’s how they’re able to support their families. Why do you think Sheriff Bill attended the hearings ?”
    “Because he had to,” Roe shot back. Just the same, Shari thought she caught an uncertain note in his voice. “That doesn’t mean he’s going to drop what he’s doing and run out here every time you get spooked.”
    “What makes you think I’d be spooked?”
    The tallest of the three men slipped around Roe so Maco and she had a clear view of him. A pistol was strapped to his belt, like Maco’s. In addition, he had a sheath on the other side that she had no doubt held a knife. “Maybe you should be,” he said.
    “Is that a warning?” Maco asked. His fingers poised over his weapon. “Because if it is, you need to consider how the dogs will react. They’re attack trained.”
    She and Maco hadn’t had time to fully discuss the dogs’ role, but she’d assumed their primary function would be to patrol the site. Nothing had been said about them personally guarding him. Just the same, she understood why Maco had said what he had.
    “Their teeth aren’t anything against a bullet,” the tall man said.
    As if the dogs knew they were being talked about, their hackles raised. “What bullet?” she demanded. “They’d be on you before you had a chance to aim.”
    The tall man’s expression made her think of a playground bully being called out by a bigger, stronger opponent. He continued to thrust his chest at her while looking at his companions for reinforcement.
    “You came all the way out here to make threats?” Maco broke a tense silence. “Must be because the four of you can’t be considering taking on this entire operation.”
    “What makes you think there’s just four of us?” Roe challenged. “And you’re wrong if you think all we have are hunting rifles in the rig.”
    “Go on.”
    “That’s it, for now. Like I said, we’re here to check things out. Four taxpayers curious about how our money’s being used. Soon as we’re done, we’ll be leaving. For today.”
    “I’m glad you came.” Maco nodded at Bruce and Tucker. “This way you can see what I’ve done in terms of safeguarding the site. If you want, I’d be happy to give you a demonstration of what they’re capable of. I hope you’re well insured.”
    “Fuck you, Maco.” Roe glared at her. “What the hell are you doing messing with him? What you need is a real man.”
    “Bruce,” Shari said. “Show.”
    A long, deep-chested growl rolled out of Bruce. Pulling back his lips, he exposed his fangs.

6
     
    T he pickup had turned around and was heading toward one of the dirt roads snaking over the land before Shari realized she was still clenching her fists. Bruce licked her hand, whining.
    “What’s that about?” Maco indicated Bruce.
    “Like I