Lost in the Wild by Leigh Mayberry (i am malala young readers edition txt) 📕

“You’re stretched thin. You need more help.”

“You think you have the authority to move mountains? Duane got what he wanted. He got me out of his town, and short of running me out on a rail, he got the satisfaction of seeing me leave in humiliation.”

“Yet, this comes from the woman who just said something about not having an ego.”

“Saving face has to do with maintaining authority. If I have a community full of people who think I’m incompetent, I might as well leave tonight.”

“You don’t keep up with social media, do you? You might want to check out the exclusive Northern Lights Sounder published. It has most of the details regarding Tuktu’s arrest. It went national. I know the blog went to McKee’s desk because he called me. I suspect your friend, Dana Wyatt, read how the FBI interfered with the local police chief’s investigation into a missing child. That is just the start of it. I know Valerie Hicks demanded your letter of resignation from Mayor Warren. When he didn’t present it to the North Slope Borough Council, they refused to accept his claim that you quit on your own behalf.”

Valerie Hicks, the voice of reason and accountability on the Council, wasn’t someone Meghan needed as an enemy. She knew the woman had enough political pull to render Duane’s position moot if she didn’t like what happened with the police chief.

“They must know about the problems with Reeve and the situation with Dana.”

Wilcox nodded. “They knew all that and a lot more. It was the Borough’s intervention that released Reeve from his posting. He willingly took the transfer. They appreciated the FBI’s diligence in helping with locating the missing child. But Mrs. Hicks issued a statement that denounced Agent Wyatt’s handling of the situation, including the fact she took over a case while vacationing in a state where she doesn’t have agency support.

“So, a lot happened since you brought back the girl and solved a murder to boot. I’m here officially to offer our services whenever you need, and to make sure you have everything you need when you’re ready to return to work.”

“Do you know Valerie Hicks?”

“She was instrumental in the sting operation that removed Haynes. I know because the Council approached us to make sure all law enforcement officers handling the operation weren’t in Hayne’s pocket at the time.”

“You want more coffee?” Meghan asked after she poured a second cup.

“Nope, I came here, said what I needed to say. I offer you a formal apology on behalf of my colleagues, both current and former. I want to know that you commit to doing what you clearly are the best suited to do, given the circumstances. I feel better knowing you’re here doing this job, Meghan. All that has to do with if you still want it.”

“I’ll think about it.”

Wilcox laughed and strolled back to the front door. Meghan followed him.

“I hope you decide what’s best for everyone, and if you ever need a letter, you let me know. I know Mrs. Hicks is on a conference call with the mayor. They are looking at what’s best for the community.”

“Thanks, Sergio.”

“I could use a ride back to the airport. I want to catch the evening flight out. Uber around here isn’t working on my phone,” Wilcox said.

Meghan laughed. “I don’t have a vehicle anymore. They took the—”

The rusty midnight blue Chevrolet Suburban sat out in front of the house. Wilcox handed Meghan the key to the truck. She shook her head.

“Can I at least get dressed first?”

“Sure, whatever you want.”

Meghan suspected after the field supervisor for the FBI made a special trip to talk to Meghan, she’d hear a lot more of that in the near future.

Chapter Twenty-Five

She didn’t have a list of demands, only a few strong suggestions. It surprised Meghan that Wilcox decided to stay for the conference call from the Council regarding Meghan’s future. Whatever happened at that moment meant Meghan had complete autonomy moving forward as police chief, if she wanted to keep the job.

“We’re prepared to offer you compensation to ensure you want to extend your contract with the city, if you want to renegotiate.” Valerie Hick’s voice rang though the situation room in the police department.

Sitting at the table with Meghan and Wilcox, Duane had a look that suggested he didn’t like his authority manipulated by others. Meghan knew how that felt. It was uncomfortable.

“I don’t want more money,” Meghan said. “I’ll sign the contract. I’d like for the city to increase my Sergeant’s wage to reflect his position. I’m still interested in finding a suitable replacement for Trooper Winters’ former post in the city.”

“That is still in the budget,” Valerie said. Meghan heard some whispers through the intercom phone system from other board members. “There is room to increase Sergeant Henry’s wage as long as he’s willing to sign a contract.”

“I assume you want one from Lester too,” Meghan said. “I am fine with that.”

“Are you confident you will reclaim your officers? I know the troopers have offered to help alleviate the pressures in case you’re taxed on hours.”

“I always appreciate the help. If I can get everyone onboard, and find another officer, I think we’ll be right as rain.” Meghan didn’t want to appear smug in front of Duane. It was impossible at that point.

***

Inside the terminal, waiting with Wilcox for his flight, Meghan knew to make sure their professional relationship had a foundation worth building on. Meghan suspected that if she ever needed a hand from Wilcox all she had to do was ask.

“Are you going to call your former supervisor?” Wilcox asked.

Meghan watched the other travelers leaving Kinguyakkii. Most of the people she recognized were day travelers, people who spent a few hours commuting to Anchorage or