Where the Sun Sets
Chapter 31
Patrick Lang had been running the sky tours for the past seven years. He
enjoyed the job, enjoyed the people, and mostly enjoyed setting his own hours. When
Billy called, he was free and happy to extend his services. He was standing by the
chopper, waiting for them as they had arrived. They were in the air within minutes
and following the directions Billy had taken from Banton's computer screen.
Patrick knew right where he was going. So thirty minutes later they were
hovering over the wooded area along US-44. "I don't even see the road, do either of
you see the road?" Harold was as nervous as a mother-in-law.
"We have to get down lower if this lights gonna help any." Billy was searching
vigilantly, but was only accessing tree tops. "I don't see any clear area. Harold,
look over there, I have this side covered. I need your eyes over there, we're
looking for a fire, not a road. Pat can ya get us any lower?"
Patrick swung the bird around to the left. Harold thought he was going to fall
straight out to his death. Billy grabbed the old mans shoulder, in a display of
protection. Harold had his eyes squeezed shut so tight, it took a moment for his
vision to clear once he had opened them. Not a moment too soon. "There, I see
something. Over there, quick. Do you see it?" The fire was still burning.
Patrick swung out further to the left to find the main road. "Can't put her
down here. Risk setting the house on fire. I'll drop you on the main road and
circle back again." Minutes later Patrick was passenger-less as his chopper left the
ground.
Billy and Harold followed the dirt road, from US-44 to the house. Billy was
first to arrive, as Harold cramped up and had to catch his breath. Billy circled the
dwelling to ensure their safety. Harold arrived just as Billy was making his
entrance. Holding an ax he had found on a nearby stack of wood, Billy slowly stepped
through the door frame. Harold had his gun in hand as he followed.
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