Chapter 17
CHAPTER SEVENTEEN
“ W hat do you mean you won’t be the CEO?” Dolan demanded.
Stewart’s gaze swept across the board members at his table. He hadn’t invited them, but since the main house was being searched, here they were.
“McKenna had been working up to take the job from me for a long time. He was always outspoken about it. Aside from Katie, who else told him to stop? Who has actually confronted him about his actions?” When they all simply stared in response, he shook his head. “Not saying it’s your fault, but we tried to get through to him, and he just ignored Katie and me. The FBI’s investigation lasted from yesterday into the night. I didn’t get a chance to check our assets.”
“He changed the passwords,” Laughlin told them. He met Stewart’s gaze. “You are right, Stewart. He thought the job was rightfully his. He’s been saying it for years, but I never responded. I doubt he would have listened to any of us. He liked to behave as if he ran the whole ranch. I just nodded and did my own thing. He was good with horses and fixing the baler.”
“I can get in. I have extra security on my laptop. I’ll see what I can find out and email all of you.” Stewart sighed, almost afraid to ask his next question. “Did you all get paid?”
“Yes. He stiffed each of us for fifty bucks. It seemed like he was trying to make it clear that he controlled the money,” Montgomery said.
“I propose we have Katie take over. I can teach her everything she needs to know.” Stewart smiled at Katie.
“On a temporary basis, with Stewart’s help.”
Maquire stood. “What about the drugs? Will the investigation result in us losing our ranch? How long has he been doing this? Is he taking drugs? Is he selling it? We need answers!” He looked around the table and then sat down.
“I called the police as soon as I found the drugs,” said Stewart. “As for the rest, I don’t know. He had a man guarding the building. He said his name was Wayne. When he learned who I am he looked nervous and took off. He must have alerted McKenna. Sheriff Washington arrived, and while we were outside the building, McKenna attempted to hit us with his truck.” The memory washed over him, bringing a surge of dread. “I’m completely devastated by the whole situation.”
He took a sip of coffee. “The feds have the run of the place. If any of you know anything, I need to know. We can’t lose our ranch. I wish I had more information, but when I know, I’ll text you.”
Flora walked in, collecting cups and plates, signaling the meeting’s much-needed end.
Taking advantage of Stewart’s unawareness, Aurora studied him closely. He sat slightly hunched and there were circles under his eyes. Otherwise, it was a strong face for a strong man.
Clearing her throat, she walked into the office. He glanced up, and she offered him a sad smile. Before he could tell her he was busy, she sat down.
“You’re not sleeping either?”
He gave her a half-hearted smile. “Not really. It’s been one thing after another. McKenna made a mess out of the finances. Funny, he claimed he didn’t have the password. He thought he could outsmart me by changing it, but I have the authenticator password.”
“I’m truly sorry to hear you are going through so much. And I’m very sorry my presence has added to your burdens. I only ask that I can stay a week after my stepfather is sentenced. I seem to be newsworthy still. Otherwise, I’d walk away and let you be.” She sounded melancholy. She didn’t want to sound sad.
“That’s fine. What’s one more scandal around here?”
His words struck her heart. They could have had the best friendship.
“I’ll let you get back to work.”
“Wait. I’m just a grumpy old cowboy today.” He snickered. “Well, not old, though sometimes it feels like I am. You can stay as long as you like. It might take two weeks or longer for things to calm down. Plus, McKenna is the news of the century.” He sighed and stared into the darkness across the room. After a moment, he began speaking. “The McKeegan name has always stood for honesty, integrity. It was known for fair dealings and the best livestock around. McKenna took all that and made us drug dealers. This ranch has been in the McKeegan hands since the 1860s. We have always helped those in need. I’m sure everyone knows about how I was scammed and my poor choices. Now, I don’t know. I’m worried people will think I sold drugs to make up for my losses.”
“And my coming to the ranch is the topper. I do have a plan. I’m going to go back and live with my mother. Wait, honestly, it’s the safest thing for me. I can’t travel from town to town hoping for a job and a place to live. I’m not your responsibility.” She stood. “A week or two after sentencing will be more than enough. Thank you.” The thank you came out as a whisper.
Tears welled up in her eyes. She made a quick exit from the office. While the decision to go back to her mother was abrupt, it seemed like the most logical course of action. But could she actually do it? The world had become a very scary place. Living above Gus’ garage had been the best situation. It was clean and had a functioning lock.
What she wanted wasn’t possessions, but the certainty of her safety. When the FBI had left their house, first her mother denied it, blamed it on her daughter, and then she was adamant someone would kill her.
At the time, Aurora thought her to be paranoid. It wasn’t until she learned the scope of her father’s treachery that she took the words seriously.
A soft knock interrupted the silence in her open office.
“Aurora, I’m Katie McKeegan. I hope I didn’t catch you at a bad time.” Her smile was welcoming.
“Of course not. Have a seat. It’s so nice to meet you.”
Katie’s smile faded. “I’m speaking for the rest of the McKeegans. They voted that I talk to you. You seem like a nice woman, and normally we’d welcome you?—”
“Say no more. I understand. Does Stewart know?”
Katie shook her head. “No, he has a soft spot where you’re concerned. I don’t think he’s thought everything out. The McKeegan name is being dragged through some deep mud.” She took a deep breath. “Of course. I’d like to give you enough money to get you to your next destination.”
Aurora felt gut kicked. “That’s generous of you, but I’ll be fine. I’ll need a ride to town, though.”
Katie’s smile brightened. “Of course! I saw Bernie working with the horses. I’ll give him a call. I do have one other request.” Katie bit her bottom lip. “Could you leave Stewart a note? A nice it’s been fun, but it’s the end of the road for us?”
“An end of the road letter?” Aurora frowned.
Katie smiled again and released a soft laugh. “Never mind, I’ll write it. Go gather your things while Flora is out. It’s for the best.”
A tightness arose in Aurora’s throat. “It won’t take but a minute.” Quickly, she stood and walked out of the room. Her heart pounded wildly in her chest. Now what?