Two Ten-Year-Old Twins Trailed Their Limping German Shepherd Off a Remote Vermont Path—Only to Discover a Deputy Abandoned and Barely Alive in the Thick Fog, a Find That Would Alter the Course of an Entire Investigation and Their Young Lives Forever

Juniper’s pulse thudded in her ears. “How do you know that?” she demanded.

A fraction of hesitation. Enough to matter. “Small town,” he replied lightly, but the answer lacked weight.

Ranger barked once, sharp and decisive.

The man’s jaw flexed. “Look, kids, he needs help. My truck’s not far. I’ve got supplies.”

“We already called,” Juniper shot back. “They’re coming.”