* * * *
“Wyatt, this is some intense information that’s leaked out. They really don’t have any idea who these guys are, that are taking these women. I think it’s important that we’re aware of these cases, even though Pearl is a small town. We have a lot of events coming up that bring in large amounts of people from all over,” Matt said as Wyatt, Dale, and Matt looked over the files Matt received from some friends in the government.
“This is terrible. It really gives me even greater concern with the women’s shelter and all those young girls needing protection right here in Pearl,” Wyatt stated.
“Those are my thoughts exactly. We need to keep an eye out for any new strangers we see around town or of course anywhere near the cottages and shelters. I think it’s important to start planning some safeguards, just in case these abductions move closer to Pearl,” Matt added.
“There haven’t been any in Turbank, Croton, or even as far as Keanter, but then Dallas, Houston, any of the big cities aren’t really that far when dealing with smuggling women around. Taking safeguards to protect the women and children here is part of what makes Pearl so special,” Matt said.
“Exactly. I don’t even want to think about criminals like this getting their hands on any more young women, never mind ones in our own town. Where are the detectives at in their investigation?” Dale asked, and then glanced at his watch again. Matt took notice and so did Wyatt.
“Are we keeping you from something?” Wyatt teased.
“No worries. I got about thirty more minutes. So how do you want to handle this?” Dale asked.
“We could up the security details, and work on improving the surveillance cameras?” Wyatt suggested.
“Well, it’s a good thing that Virgo and Dale are around. They know a lot about setting up surveillance, and securing a perimeter,” Matt stated.
“Excellent. Let’s go over the places that need improvement, and then any ideas you might have to enhance the security in town and around the bed-and-breakfast would be great,” Wyatt said and then they talked more about their ideas.
As Dale and Matt exited the sheriff’s department, Matt confronted him.
“Okay, so I saw you outside talking with Sage and those guy friends she’s got. What’s the deal?”
“They’re not a problem. Although I could tell the two quiet ones, Davie and Lenny definitely have a thing for Sage. But I made it clear she’s ours.”
Matt raised his eyebrow at his cousin.
“I’m meeting her to take her to lunch. That’s where I’m headed now.”
“You got her to accept a date for lunch?”
“I convinced her that she was safe with me and I didn’t give her too much of a choice. We need to get to know her on an individual level. I think she’ll loosen up and let us in. Maybe when we’re all together it puts her on the defensive.”
“I agree with you. This whole thing about these young women being taken or persuaded doesn’t sit right with me at all. I don’t know why, but it makes me think of Sage. Young, attractive, sexy body, college degree. I would fucking kill someone if they tried anything.”
“The thought crossed my mind, too. If she’s with one of us, then she’s safe from shit like this that takes place in the busier towns and cities. Out here in Pearl, women are more protected.”
“That’s what we’ve been trying to do. But remember, Sage is still considering leaving Pearl and taking a job in a bigger town or in Dallas. That just makes me jealous and worried. I want her here. She could do great here, maybe even help us with our business?”
“What are you thinking?” Dale asked.
“She has a natural knack and understanding of the laws. As a paralegal her job entails lots of reading and research as well. I know a great way she could help, even in cases like this one, and right from home. Our home, eventually,” Matt said.
“You’ve really given this a lot of thought. What if Sage turns us down? What if you’re wrong? What if we’re wrong and she’s not attracted to us and willing to be part of a ménage relationship? Then what?”
“Well, hopefully that’s not the case and we can convince her otherwise. I take the barbecue and her respo
nse to us as a positive sign. Add in the long, deep conversation she had with Virgo, and now lunch with you, makes me think we’re making progress. Now don’t you go getting all pompous and pushy. You have a lot more experience than Sage. We all do, and it probably scares her, too.”
“I know that, Matt. Thanks for the advice. I’m going to go now, so she doesn’t think I ditched her.”
“Keep me posted.”
* * * *
Sage was shocked, but she actually was nervous and excited to see if Dale actually showed up at her cottage to take her to lunch. Truth was, she didn’t want to go to lunch. To be on public display for everyone to gossip about. She didn’t like being exposed, or feeling that way.