Chapter 20

As Barney approached the tree with the treehouse, he touched the radio on his chest. “This is Deputy Barney Smith. My helmet camera is on. I’m documenting my capture of a dangerous person of interest, wanted by the government and military. I am also transmitting this to the proper channels.” Barney started climbing up the ladder.

Mary looked out the window. She saw Barney had his gun drawn and called out, “Hurry, Barney, this girl is dangerous!”

“She’s not dangerous!” Joe told Mary.

“Though I can be if I am provoked!” Tasha added.

“Not helping, Tash!” Joe said.

Barney burst into the treehouse and waved his gun at Tasha. “Don’t move! I don’t want to shoot you! But I can’t let you hurt these kids!”

Tasha slowly lifted her arms. “I don’t want to hurt them either. Or you.”

Barney smiled. “I’m the one holding