Chapter 164

The sound of lonesome coyotes in the distance pierced the fading night surrounding Desolation Ranch, the Texas headquarters of Night Seekers. The rhythm of daytime had yet to begin, the familiar activity in the war room and the ever-present sound of hammers and other construction equipment, which fell blessedly silent once the sun dipped below the horizon.

Originally outfitted to house the first eight recruits of Night Seekers, the structure was undergoing massive changes. As more members were added and as spouses joined the team, Craig Stafford, the billionaire moneyman behind the group, had set about making sure each couple had their own private wing.

Dante Martello loved the hour just before dawn, when the sky began to lighten and shine with the promise of a new day. These were the only moments when he actually allowed a glimmer of hope to pierce his consciousness.