Destined (The Rangers of Ridge County #1)

Chapter Fifty-Five

CHAPTER FIFTY-FIVE

EMMETT

“ T he last known address for Thomas Jones is a rundown Motor Lodge off of Highway 82,” Theo shared after he hung up the phone.

It had to be where Dustin was staying, too.

Thomas could have gotten the Thumper from him.

“Call for backup,” I commanded, sure we were on the right track and praying we weren’t too late.

We rounded a sharp curve, and I spotted a familiar vehicle pulled onto the shoulder of the road. I urged my cruiser faster, noting a motorcycle down on its side behind Millie’s car and a man leaned over in the grass nearby. A sinking feeling overcame me as I braked, throwing my cruiser into park. I slid from behind the wheel, immediately recognizing my best friend. A shouted plea rang through the air as Denver Tate’s bloodshot eyes met mine.

“HELP ME!”

Theo and I moved, and I almost dropped to my knees when I realized Denver was hunched over a body.

A body with raven colored hair.

“HELP ME!” he bellowed again, applying pressure to Greer’s middle—her blood-soaked shirt stained bright red.

Nausea rolled through me as I rushed to her other side while Theo ran for my cruiser to radio for an ambulance .

My fingers went to her neck, feeling for a pulse. It was there but faint and fading.

“Push harder!” I growled, putting my hands on top of his.

A faint groan seeped through Greer’s lips, followed by Denver’s sharp intake of breath.

“Where’s Millie?” I asked, lifting my eyes to scan the area.

“Don’t know,” he gritted out through clenched teeth. “Driver’s side window is busted, though.”

“Don’t let up,” I commanded, and he nodded, his eyes never leaving Greer’s pale face.

Theo was already assessing the window by the time I reached it. “Backup and medical are en route. ETA less than five minutes,” he said, glancing over my shoulder to where Greer laid.

“She’ll make it,” I declared, refusing to accept any other outcome.

Time had never moved so slowly, and after what felt like hours—but was mere minutes—a convoy of emergency medical services rounded the curve, lights and sirens blaring.

Lainey and her partner raced for Greer, assessing her then quickly moving her onto their stretcher. I followed them as they hurried for the back of the ambulance, Denver on my heels.

I stayed back, letting him climb in as Lainey worked to stabilize Greer.

“Call my mother,” I stated. “I’ll be there as soon as I can.”

Denver nodded, eyes still glued to my sister.

“I’ve got Greer. Go find your girl,” he urged as Lainey moved to close the back doors of the ambulance.

“Take care of my sister,” I barked at both of them as the doors latched.

Turning to the group of deputies circled around me, my gaze fell on each of them—a silent show of gratitude before I shouted, “Let’s go!”