In his pocket, Grant’s phone vibrated.
By the way Adam went for his first, it had to be a group text. “I’m sure you understand the difficulty I’m having in taking the word of a serial killer, Detective Vonn.” He read the message and handed his phone to Doc, who glanced at it quick, and passed it to Grant. “So, if it’s all the same to you, I’m going to need proof of life before I make any decisions.”
Grant read the note and handed the phone back to Adam with a nod.
Yep. Chase had a plan. He always had a plan.
“Figured as much,” Vonn said.
A dull thud followed by a grunt of pain sounded before Zander’s voice came through loud and clear. “Someone better kill this motherfu—”
Another grunt, and Vonn came back online. “So, what’s it gonna be? Him or her?”
“Don’t hurt him,” Eve cried. “I’m coming out!”
Already struggling to exchange air,Adam’s functioning lung went into full spasm as Eve let go of him and volunteered to switch places. He wasn’t losing her. He wasn’t losing Zander either.
No.
Fuck no.
“Give me the case,” she said, holding her palm out to Doc who tightened his grip on the handle. “Please! We have to do this. He won’t kill me. Not here. He needs a hostage to get away.”
“Eve—”
“Please, Adam!” She looked at him, and her desperation damn near buckled his knees. “I can’t let Zander die. Not because of me!”
“We’re not going to let anyone die,” he replied, ignoring the pain in his chest, and lifting his arm to caress his fingers down her cheek. “We just need to give Chase a few minutes to get into position.”
Trapped inside the windowless garage, they were at a distinct disadvantage. While Vonn had to be close by, they didn’t know his exact location, and coming out guns blazing would put Zander in the direct line of fire.
Nope.
They were running out of time, but they needed a better way.
The comm clicked in his ear. “Tick tock,” Detective Von said, his message broadcast to the entire group. “Eve comes out in the next ten seconds, or I shoot this fucker in the face.”
“How do I know you won’t shoot him anyway?” Adam asked, hoping to delay a little longer. Chase had to make his way from one side of the property to the other without being seen. It would take time. Precious minutes they didn’t have.
“You’re stalling,” Von replied. “Ten…”
“Wait!” Eve shouted, her voice carrying through the open communicator. “I’m coming out.” She tried to pry the case from Doc’s grasp to no avail.
“Nine…”
“Give it to her,” Adam ordered as he shuffled toward Cody and the door.
“Eight…”
The others followed, and weapons ready, they formed a semicircle around Eve. “Walk slow,” Adam instructed, adjusting her vest even though no adjustments were necessary. He needed to touch her. Needed the reassurance of feeling her solid and alive before he sent her out to face a serial killer.
“Seven…”
“Fumble. Drop the briefcase if you need to. Anything to keep some distance between you and Vonn. Got it?”
“Six…”
Eyes broadcasting her fear, she nodded. “What else?”
