“Yes. And deadbolts on the doors. That’s about it.” She wrinkled her forehead. “Luke, my father might not have been in his right mind in his final moments. He was in pain . . . having a heart attack. Who knows how much oxygen was getting to his brain? I don’t think we should set too much store on what he told you when he said the hunt might put me in danger. He’s always been concerned about my safety. Maybe his generalized worry got tangled with thoughts about the treasure hunt and blown out of proportion.”

“I don’t think so. His words were clear, and he was looking right at me.”

“Well, even if he was lucid, it’s still possible that we won’t encounter any threats. Dad might have been wrong about the danger. Or maybe we won’t be able to solve the hunt. In which case, danger won’t be a factor.”

What? “There’s a chance we won’t be able to solve the hunt?”

“During my teenage years, it wasn’t unusual for me to get stuck on a clue. When that happened, I’d ask my dad for a hint.”

His jaw hardened. He needed a new start in Montana like he needed air. There, he could live exactly how he wanted: alone, on his own terms, surrounded by rugged nature. He and Finley had to solve this hunt. “Ed created this particular hunt knowing he wouldn’t be around to give hints.”

“Even so, I’m afraid I might get stumped.”

“We’ll cross that bridge if we come to it.”

They worked together to set the outdoor table after she announced that she enjoyed eating outside more than inside, even if it meant “bundling up.”

Again, weird. But her house, her decision.

Back in the kitchen, she spooned food into serving bowls, then handed them to him to transfer outside. A yellow-colored rice dish. Beans. Bread rolls. Then the grilled vegetables.

They sat across from each other at the table on her deck. More food than the two of them could eat and five little cacti filled the surface between them.

Awkwardly, he waited for her to pick up her fork and begin.

“I’ll pray over the food,” she stated.

Oh. That was the hold-up.

“Father God, thank you so much for Luke and his willingness to honor his promise to Dad. Praise you for sending him. I ask that you protect us both, should there be any need for protection. I ask that you bless us both as we make our way through the clues. May this become a beautiful journey.”

He stayed still, eyes respectfully closed. Good grief. How much longer was this flowery prayer going to last?

“Thank you for this earth, all your creatures, this food, and this grace of yours that goes beyond all understanding. Amen.” She smoothed her napkin in her lap and took a bite of bread.