Ira’s words took the wind out of Mary. She looked over at Mount Rainier. It protruded into a clear sky, its distinctive volcano shape too well known for anyone to mistake. She had been living in a fool's world, thinking she could lead Judd's gang around without one of them noticing. The weather had been too nice for subterfuge. "She's leading us in circles," Ira said. He removed his dark glasses to wipe off the moisture and she met his accusing gaze. "Circles?" Judd bellowed, jerking his head up to stare at Mount Rainier. "Circles?" He swung around as if to seek trail markers stuck up in the snow, marked "Wrong Way." The veins on his forehead became pronounced, their vivid presence emphasizing the anger exploding within. "That's what I said." Putting his glasses back on, Ira pointed at Mary. "If you want more proof, look at her face." Mary could feel the flush of heat staining her cheeks and spoke quickly, hoping that somehow she could cover her actions. "We've had to circle some of the more dangerous areas.
