In Amber?” Rothman snorted. “Why would you need backup there? There are only about five people living in the place,” he quipped.

 

“I don’t think this job is going to be as easy as we thought,” Michael explained. “These townspeople seem to be really tight. They stick really closely together. And from what I’ve gathered, they’re extremely loyal to The Dark Angels. Another problem is that they already seem like they’re on to me. They may not realize that I’m a Special ATF Agent, but they know that something’s up.”

 

“So what do you want me to do about it?” Special Agent Rothman sighed impatiently. “I’ve got my guys being called out all over the state of California and beyond to deal with cases that seem to be popping up nonstop these days. I can’t afford to send somebody else out there with you. You should be able to handle this one on your own, Larson.”

 

“Sir, I understand what you’re saying. But what you don’t realize is the fact that this town is so small is what makes this case all the more complicated. All eyes are on me. And this Dark Angels biker gang is not one to be underestimated. These guys are well liked, well organized, heavily armed, and not afraid to shoot to kill.”

 

“So what do you want me to do about it?” Rothman asked exasperatedly.

 

“Send another Special Agent out here to work with me. A female. I already told the bartender who works in the town watering hole and seems like a suspicious busybody that I’m here with my ex-girlfriend doing some research on her ancestors. So send me someone who could fit that description.” As Michael leaned his head back against the seat and wondered what he had gotten himself into by volunteering to take on this case, he heard Rothman rifling through a stack of papers.

 

“I’ve only got one woman who is available,” Rothman sighed, his voice filled with annoyance. “And that’s Agent Samantha Canon. She’s new in town, just came here from Philly, and she’s looking for a case to work on that’s not too far away from home since she’s taking care of her sick father. I’ll have her drive down there tonight. How does that sound?”

 

“That sounds awesome,” Michael said appreciatively. “Thank you so much, sir. I really appreciate it.”

 

“You’re welcome. I’ll text her phone number to you so that you can give her a call and brief her on the case during her drive, and make arrangements on where to meet her. She’s in the office today, so I’ll let her know what’s going on first then send her on her way.”

 

“Thanks again, sir. I’ll have this case cracked in no time now,” Michael said convincingly.

 

“Show me better than you can tell me,” Rothman insisted. “I’m going to talk to Agent Canon now. You keep working, and call me when you get some information.”

 

“Will do, sir,” Michael said before hanging up the phone.

 

Right before he started his engine, Michael looked up and saw two men crossing the street.