The Texas Ranger's Family (Lone Star Lawmen 3)

“No, not that I noticed.”

The waitress arrived with their food and, after she excused herself, Kit resumed his questioning. “How was she dressed?”

“Very stylish. A designer-type dress and high heels. She went a little heavy on the makeup. You’re probably surprised I noticed so much, but it was because she was so striking, almost like a fashion model. Rod said she was Natalie’s cousin, but I found that surprising because I’d never heard about her.”

“I wish all the witnesses I interrogated had your memory. Did he introduce her by name?”

“He said something like Myra or Mara, but he was in a hurry and I didn’t quite catch it.”

“That’s fine.”

“I wish I’d been more observant,” Colette murmured. “Now that I know the truth, I guess he just wanted to get her out of there as fast as he could.”

“I’m sure of it. Did she have a suitcase with her? Maybe a tag that would identify where she’d come from or where she was going?”

“Not that I recall. I was in a hurry myself.”

Kit nodded. “How did he treat her? Like a friend or a lover?”

“I didn’t pick up on anything more than that they knew each other.”

“Do you remember the car he was driving?”

Colette frowned. “I think he was standing next to a white car, but I can’t be positive.”

“Good,” he said as Natalie returned and put Amy in the high chair. The little girl pointed to him. “Kit.”

“Hi, sweetheart.” He put a cracker on the tray for her.

Natalie’s friend broke into a smile. “She knows you.”

“She catches on fast.” He smiled back.

“Amy has her mother’s smarts. One day I hope to have a baby as adorable as this one.”

“I’m sure you will.” Natalie’s spring green eyes darted to Kit. “Sorry I was gone so long. The place was crowded. Forgive me if I’m interrupting you.”

His gaze played over her. “There’s nothing to forgive. I’ve already asked all my questions pertaining to the case. Colette here has a keen eye—she remembered details I wouldn’t have expected. It helps immensely.”

The three adults started to eat their lunches and Amy munched happily on her crackers. Kit addressed Natalie’s old friend.

“Tell me about your barrel riding days, Colette. Do you still compete at the rodeo?”

“Not anymore. Sounds like Natalie has been telling tales out of school.”

“That’s because you were an excellent barrel racer,” Natalie countered. “And guess what? Kit—I mean, Father Segal’s brother is a steer wrestler. In fact he’s competing at Nationals in Las Vegas in December.”

Colette’s eyes lit up. “What’s his name?”

“Brandon Saunders from the Lazy S Ranch in Marble Falls, Texas.”

“Father Segal used to compete in the same event,” Natalie interjected.

“Really. How come you’re not still riding?”

“My career forced me to give it up.”

“That happened to me, too. Those were the good old days. I’ll have to keep an eye on your brother’s numbers. When is his next event?”