He figured she just took off that night, Harley finished for him.

Santiago nodded. Found a nearby road and hitchhiked. And you never know what might happen, a young girl her age hitchhiking.

But you dont buy that theory.

Santiago rubbed his chin thoughtfully. No, not really. Like I said, too neat. She just disappears off the face of the earth, no trace? He shook his head. She left the camp that night, alright, but I dont think she did it willingly. I think somebody was watching her.

The idea sent a chill down Harleys spine. Any suspects? Any… She paused, hating the very sound of the word. Predators in the area?

There were two, yeah. And we checked them out. Rock-solid alibis, both of them. He sighed. Thats where the trail went cold. We interviewed all the friends she was camping with, and their stories were consistent: They stayed up late around the fire, joking around and sharing the case of beers one of the girls had smuggled from her dads garage, and then one of the tents nearly caught fire from an ember. That killed the mood. They all went to sleep, and in the morning Kelly was gone.

Along with her belongings, Harley mused. But if it was a predator, why would he take her things?

Santiago gave her a helpless look. Youve got me there.

They both fell silent. Santiago began glancing toward his office, where a phone was ringing. Much as Harley wanted to continue talking about Kelly, that wasnt why shed come. There were other young women in troubleyoung women whom Harley might actually be able to help.

I appreciate your candor, she said, grateful she wasnt the only one who still wanted to know what had happened to Kelly. And if you ever come across anything about my sister, dont hesitate to reach out. She gave the sheriff her number.

Santiago frowned curiously. Is the FBI investigating her disappearance?

Not at present. Its a personal matter.

I understand. If I learn anything, youll be the first to know.

She thanked him and was about to leave when Santiago held up a hand to stop her. His face had grown suddenly thoughtful.

He said, Did you say your victims were found in old mines?

Harley nodded as she mentally shifted gears. Thats right. Why, do you know of any other bodies?

Santiago scratched his chin, considering. Bodies, no. But I do remember there was a surveyor who came out a few years ago for the state, said he was mapping those old mines. There are too many of them to fill in, but with an accurate map, it wouldnt be difficult to at least mark them so nobody falls in by accident.

Harley tried to rein in her excitementshe had to remain professional, no matter how much she wanted to catch the killer. Do you remember his name?

Santiago frowned, and Harley decided he must have forgotten it. Then the sheriffs eyes lit up.