Jessica was just leading the saddled horses out of the barn when Chase came jogging up. "Got some grub for the road," he said, motioning to his bulging saddle bags. Jessica nodded and handed Chase the reins of a bay gelding. She turned and vaulted nimbly onto Bellisario's back not even bothering to use the stirrups. She turned the stallion and urged him out of town towards Willow Wood, Chase following behind.

They spent the ride alternating between a trot and a walk, trying to cover as much ground as possible without running the horses into the ground. Finally they reached Willow Wood and halted their horses in front of the Sheriff's office. Jessica looked around cautiously, wondering what the problem could be. She looped Bellisario's reins loosely over the hitching post, knowing that if she whistled for him, the stallion would untie himself and come at a run.