Sad but necessary chapter. This is reminiscent of best friends separating after graduating high school. Some go to college, some go into the military, some travel, many just stay and work. It seems easier to find yourself in a sea of newness than in the same kiddie pool you've been in most of your life. I can't help but hope they find their way back to each other after they've found their way around themselves first.
So, we know that the rougue either works at or does business at the bank, but this is the pack's chosen bank branch, so most of the pack may have been at the bank. He also uses the rest stop as hunting ground. If Sawyer was able to get more access to the pack members, I think he might be able to sniff out the rougue. I have a feeling we have already met him. This is a great combo of a murder mystery, romance, and sci-fi. I love the tension.
I'm loving this story, as I have your previous stories. I fell in love with Larry McMurtry's writing many years ago and I enjoy your writing just as much. Your ability to create realistic characters and engaging storylines and inject romance, without becoming a cloying mess, is a genuine talent and is much appreciated.