Chapter 82: Austin-Past

"Miranda," Sheriff Patton repeated. "Darlin', I need to speak with you."

My attention flicked between the sheriff and my girlfriend. Something was terribly wrong. Everything about his posture, his demeanor, it all put me on edge. His hands on his hips and his lowered head made me uneasy. With his chin down, I couldn't see the sheriff's face, and then he turned his attention to me.

"Austin, son, why don't you bring her up here."

"Yes, sir."

Nervous energy pumped through my veins and drove me across the lake as I swam toward Randi. I was lost as to what his agenda might be; nevertheless, I wasn't brave enough to disobey. I popped up at Randi's side and motioned for us to get out of the water. She shook her head, adamantly refusing to go.