Mary Jo looked at the officer. Today made five days. "What happens if he doesn't file it in five days?"
"His driver's license could be suspended until he files it."
Officer Lucas looked at Monroe. "I have a form. Do you want to fill it out and let me take it in for you?"
Monroe shook his head. "No, I'll go into town and take care of it today."
After the officers left, Mary Jo turned to Monroe. "It was Lester," she ground out. "He reported it just to get even with you. I knew he'd do something."
Monroe didn't respond. He turned to his men and gave them instructions on what he wanted done while he was gone. He looked at Mary Jo.
"You two can go home if you want. We'll work on this tomorrow."
Billy Ray looked disappointed for a moment, and then hopeful. "Can I go into town with you?"
Monroe smiled and put a hand on his shoulder. "Not this time, but next time I go, I'll take you with me. How about that?"
Billy Ray gave him a reluctant nod.
There was no reason for Monroe to feel obligated to take him, but she was sure that once he promised something, he wouldn't let Billy Ray down. He was just that kind of person.
Barrett filed his accident report and called Logan to report the situation. Logan listened to his report and responded in a composed voice.
"Well, you were smart to file your own report. I wonder why he offered. Obviously the police are talking to the Hudsons. The question is; are they collaborating or are they investigating? Either way, it sounds like someone doesn't want you out there. I like your response about the permission. It sounds authentic, especially since you didn't know you had to file an accident report. I didn't realize you didn't know that. I bet your uncle didn't either."
"Well, it's done now and I'll know next time."
"It sounds like you're making some progress. Keep an eye out and if it looks dangerous, get out of there."
"I was wondering for a little while there if I had more to fear from the police. I thought he was going to arrest me."
"From what you observed, it sounds more like they were fishing for information. They can get pretty aggressive, but arresting you and bringing you in for questioning would require paperwork they wouldn't want to fill out - not for something like trespassing with no one to complain. You handled it well. Just stay cool and don't resist if they do arrest you."