Gabe had just finished his coffee and pastry when the good Reverend Parrish walked in. How convenient was that?

This time, Gabe gave him a closer study. Mid-forties. About 6-2, two hundred pounds, and in good shape. Short brown hair, blue eyes. Still wearing a pistol.

A young man and two women followed him like chicks after a hen.

Seeing Gabe, the reverend motioned the three to the counter—and headed for Gabe. “Chief MacNair. I’m Reverend Parrish.

Gabe took the offered hand. “It’s good to meet you. Actually, I wanted to speak with you about—”

“About Keaton. I heard about the unfortunate incident last night.” A flash of amusement was quickly masked.

“That incident was assault.” Gabe kept his voice mild.

“Of course, and I was appalled. We don’t condone violence. That is why Mr. Keaton’s membership was revoked, and he was expelled from the fellowship and the grounds. I so informed Officer Baumer last night.”

Son of a bitch. Although the crime would be considered a misdemeanor, it was still assault. “Where did he go?”

“In fear of being arrested, I believe he planned to return to the Lower 48. He was from Kentucky.” Despite a slight smirk, Parrish appeared to be telling the truth.

In fact, he probably was. He’d undoubtedly tossed Keaton out to keep Gabe from getting onto the militia’s grounds. Rounding up a judge to get a warrant for Keaton’s arrest at this point was probably futile.

That’s why Baumer’s log stated the man had left town.

“I appreciate the information.” Gabe kept his voice level, not letting his frustration leak out. “Please let your…members…know that violent behavior isn’t acceptable and will get them in trouble.”

“I’ll do that.” The reverend tilted his head. His gaze on Gabe stopped barely short of being a challenge. After a long moment, he turned and rejoined the others.

As Gabe watched, the man spoke to the three, switching on his magnetism, as someone would turn on a light.

His “flock” hung on every word.

Rubbing his neck, Gabe watched with a sinking feeling in his gut. The good reverend was a charismatic fanatic with firearms.

Great, just great.

Chapter Nine

Audrey sighed in relief when Gabe finally left the coffee shop.

Earlier, when customers had poured out of the shop to see the moose, she’d gone to the door to watch, and seen Gabe take charge, ordering people around with that military command voice of his. Then he’d strolled into the street, just like those old cowboy movies where the sheriff stalked out to face a gunslinger.

She grinned. He’d faced down a moose.

Actually, it wasn’t all that funny. The animal had been massive. As tall as Gabe. With antlers. That was no Bambi.

Gabe had been as cool as if he’d been out for a nice walk.

Just…wow.