“Considering your involvement in this case, I have a feeling your night is just beginning.” The other man grinned and lifted a hand as they parted in the parking lot.

Wonderful.

Much as he wanted to be part of the questioning that could ferret out the name of the ringleader, Cate’s MIA status was turning his stomach into a blender.

Where was she?

Did County have any news?

He slid behind the wheel of the rolling icebox that was his car, cranked up the heater, put the defroster on full blast—and pulled out his phone.

Yes, he’d call his St. Louis boss for his next assignment.

But first, he was getting an update on Cate.

“I think that’s about the best we’re going to be able to do, Kayla.” Cate surveyed the two small platforms they’d built, three bricks high, one for each foot. They would boost her another six or seven inches, which ought to allow her to get her arms through the opening and lock her elbows around the sides.

Assuming the bricks didn’t wobble and send them both tumbling first.

But they’d cleaned off as much mortar as they could and butted them close for stability. All they could do was give their plan a try—and hope the bricks stayed in place.

Kayla examined their handiwork, faint furrows creasing her forehead. “You think this will work?”

“I’m counting on it. I didn’t ruin my manicure to fail.” Cate called up a smile. No point in sharing her doubts with the girl.

“Yeah.” Kayla held out her hands too. “What a mess.”

Her roommate’s fingers were scratched and rubbed raw—as were her own.

Small price to pay if it bought them their freedom, however.

“Our hands will heal—and I’ll treat us both to a professional manicure after they do.”

“Really?”

“I promise.” She crossed her heart.

“Then let’s get you out of here.” Kayla stood.

Cate shrugged out of her jacket and boots again. Picked up the rope they’d fashioned of tied-together blanket strips. Knotted it at her waist and wound it around.

“How’s your shoulder?” She tucked the end of the makeshift rope into her waistband.

“It hurts—but it could have been a lot worse.” Kayla rummaged around in one of the bags and pulled out two energy bars. Slid them into the pocket of Cate’s jacket. “You may be glad to have these, depending on how long it takes you to find help.”

“Thanks. You ready?”

“I guess.” Kayla leaned forward and gave her a gentle hug. “I’d squeeze harder, but I don’t want to hurt your ribs.”

Cate patted her back. “You’ll be fine while I’m gone. Stay warm. Drink water. Eat energy bars. I’ll get help here as fast as I can.”

“I know. But it’s gonna be awful lonely while you’re gone.”