“The automatic sprinkler system in the shed is linked to the well water.”

“And I activated the remote lock on the shed door three hours ago.”

“He can’t get inside.”

Voss sighed, his breath wheezing through the speaker.

“Just be careful, Maren.”

“Your mother called my office twice this afternoon.”

“She was asking about the deed to the mountain property.”

My chest tightened at the mention of my mother.

She had chosen her side long ago.

She chose Dorian’s promise of easy luxury over her own daughter.

“What did you tell her?” I asked.

“I told her the property was tied up in probate,” Voss replied.

“She didn’t believe me.”

“She sounded frantic.”

Another call waiting beeped on my screen.

The caller ID showed my mother’s name.

“I have to go, Mr. Voss,” I said.

“She is calling me now.”

“Keep the deputy on the line.”

I swiped to answer her call, switching the audio to my earpiece.

The line crackled with wind noise.

“Maren?” her voice was thin, high-pitched with artificial warmth.

“Where are you, sweetheart?”

I gripped the steering wheel tighter, my knuckles turning white.