8:45:56 PM

“Why do I have to go?” Arnold whined.

“Because Tony told me to do it, and now I’m telling you,” Sarah said, disinterested.

“Why can’t you do it?”

“Because I’m your supervisor.”

Sarah tossed Arnold the key to her bike lock. “Take my ride. Make sure no one sees you. Set the machine and come back.”

Arnold started to leave the coffee shop. He reached the door and turned around.

“But what if I run into a cougar?” he asked.

“Don’t be ridiculous,” Sarah said.

8:51:37 PM

The intersection was completely taped off, as forensics investigators worked the scene, measuring tire tracks, taking samples and photos.

Randall walked the line, looking for a way in, but each time he ducked under the tape a uniformed officer pushed him back.

“You have to let me in!” Randall demanded, flashing his credentials. “One of my people was taken, I need to conduct my own investigation.”

The officer ignored him.

Then Randall saw it. It was on the ground, just inside the perimeter.