“I was going to tell Paxton everything, Remi,” Gabe says. “Even after you told me not to, I marched to his office to let him know that it was my idea.”

“What stopped you?” I ask, my forehead pressed against the cold glass.

“Well, I went to his office, but I overheard him talking to someone. I think it was Shadowface.”

“Why do you think that?”

“Just the way he was talking,” Gabe said. “Paxton just seemed so polite, speaking as though he were stepping around land mines. He was talking about you and how everything went.” He takes a deep breath and rakes his finger through his shaggy hair. “I think this Shadowface person has a hand in a lot more than just goods. I can’t know for sure, but I have a feeling that it was his idea to get rid of you. I didn’t say anything because if I did, I know I won’t get a chance to figure out who this Shadowface character is. If Paxton is dealing with someone that is dangerous, I think it should be exposed. I just need more time to figure everything out. I just hate that it’s at your expense.”

I believe him, though I don’t really want to. I almost feel like it would be easier just to write Gabe off as a coward and try to forget about him, but I can’t. He's not that person. He truly is the kind of person that loves Crestwood and its people. He truly does believe in what they are doing and he wants to keep it safe. I wish I could tell him about the conversation I overheard with Paxton and the raider, but I can’t. I don’t want to tell anybody, but I know that it will help Gabe if I do.

“I’m sorry it has turned out this way,” he says.

“Paxton said I could come back if I find out any information about his daughter,” I say to Gabe.

He looks at me and nods. “He usually tells people that leave Crestwood about her, hoping for something. No one ever comes back with information.”

“So, I’m just a shot in the dark?” I ask.

Gabe doesn’t answer.

“Well, I’m one that might actually know her,” I say. “At least, I think I have met her before. I don’t know if it’s the same girl.”

“Good luck finding her now,” he says. “Three years is an eternity in this world.” He looks at me, his eyes looking sad. “I hope you find her. I hope you find her and can come back to Crestwood.”

“Do you think they would actually let me back in?” I ask.

Gabe nods. “I do. Paxton would find a way to make things better.”

“Well, I doubt I will be able to even get to Elkhorn without a weapon.”