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Storm clouds snuffed out any remaining light from the setting sun, casting premature nightfall over the Preserve. A fitting end to a dismal day. J.J. and Zach saddled horses and rode for Miner’s Paradise. Shaun took the four-wheel-drive trail along the east fence line. He expressed concern as to Ray’s whereabouts in the storm before he left to find Carli and Ethan. Remaining at the lodge to receive phone calls and await everyone’s return was Tim’s offer to do something constructive. He was reassured by Zach that Carli knew the Preserve better than just about anyone, and that she would be safe from the storm. Crossing his arms, he scowled at the desk phone that hadn’t rung since everyone left. No one needed to tell him Carli would be alright. Between her survival skills and the protecti
