“Yes,” Marco said. “The deeds are held in the twins’ names through the estate.”

“If the children are declared legally missing or deceased, the land reverts to the state.”

“And Pendleton’s development group has the first right of purchase,” Ryker finished.

“Precisely,” Marco said.

I looked back at the twins.

They were so small, completely unaware of the millions of dollars tied to their names.

They only knew that their stepmother had left them at a crowded airport terminal.

They only knew that they were cold and afraid until Ryker found them.

“Does Pendleton know where they are now?” Ryker asked.

“No,” Marco said. “Thomas says they only know you fled north.”

“They are searching the airports and the regional train stations.”

Ryker stood up from the table.

He walked to the small sink and poured a glass of water from the pitcher.

He did not drink it.

He just stared at the clear liquid in the glass.

“Thomas is still in the room?” Ryker asked.

“Yes,” Marco said. “My men are watching him.”

“Does he have his personal phone?” Ryker asked.