"Tends to happen around here sometimes. He's okay," Tim assured, though most of his words came through teeth that didn't open much when he spoke, out of habit more than anything else. And maybe a jaw wiring or two.

Rachel spoke up to answer, refusing to be left out, as the acting Chief.

"Yes. He is. Gone to deal with a case, the Crowe Family."

Tim didn't look away from Malcolm as he interjected. "Right that thing with the kid, Kendell. I could take ya, if you want," he offered, with a faint tilt of his head. "Only take about three hours to get down to Harlan."

It was bait.