Nathan held his gaze, and he thought he caught a hint of accusation in his eyes—if Alex was protecting her, he wasn’t doing a very good job. Or maybe he was only imagining that vibe coming from Nathan.

“I’m trying. But she’s not making it easy.”

He held back the anger, the frustration that he hadn’t been here with her. It was one thing to be inside the facility, with security guards around. But it was another to be out in the woods. They needed to have a serious discussion about the level of protection she needed.

“Well, it’s clear that she’s been targeted, with the shooting in the woods and the break-in. And she’s asked you to be a bodyguard of sorts. Do you know who’s behind it?”

“No.”

“Any ideas or rumors?”

“I’m working on it. I appreciate you asking. As soon as I have something to tell you, I’ll let you know.”

“Are you sure about that?” Nathan had crossed his arms. His stance was wide. He looked intimidating and official.

“I’m sure.”

Across the way, Mackenzie nodded and looked distressed. The urge to go to her nearly undid him. But he would find out more from Nathan before he made that move. “The zip line gave way? What really happened? How is that even possible?”

Nathan rubbed his jaw. “Exactly. We’re looking into it.”

“What can you tell me? I know I’m not an investigator or with the county, but I’d appreciate learning anything you’re willing to share.”

Nathan appeared to measure his words. Unsure how much he should share with Alex? “Apparently the zip line was installed by a company out of New Jersey. As a matter of precaution and per their insurance, the zip-line company employees check the line and assist to make sure the harnesses are attached properly.”

Alex shook his head. “Do you think it was an accident?”

“I’m leaning toward accident. But we’ll look at all angles. Forensic techs will examine the harness when we find it. But as far as I know, it’s still attached to the man. In the meantime, they can examine the clasp that remained on the zip line.”

Alex pursed his lips. “You said Mackenzie was the last person to talk to him. So that means she was next in line?”

Nathan’s frown deepened, and he pulled out his pad, then flipped through his notes. “Says here she could have gone next but hesitated, so Chad Hastings took her place.”

What did that mean?

Nathan closed his pad and fixed his eyes on Alex. “I get the strong sense that you’re not telling me everything.”

Not yet. “I’m just worried about her.”

“Has something else happened?”

“Nothing.”

“It would be better for her if you told us why she needs protecting.”