In a dimly lit basement far from the city, Noah Smith paced back and forth. His eyes were bloodshot, his fists clenched. Around him, four other men, his most loyal followers sat at a table scattered with blueprints, weapons, and security footage.
The television in the corner played the news, where Noah’s face flashed repeatedly with the bold headline: “WANTED: NOAH SMITH, Armed and Dangerous.”
The anchor’s voice filled the room.
“…Smith escaped police custody after a deadly ambush that left four officers dead. He is believed to be the mastermind behind the attack and the attempted murder of Liam Hamilton. Authorities advise extreme caution…”
Noah grabbed the remote and turned the volume down with a hard press, then looked at the others.
“They think they’ve seen what I can do,” he muttered. “They have no idea.”
A tall, bearded man named Colt leaned forward. “What’s the next move?”
Noah smirked, a dangerous glint in his eyes. “Ava thinks she’s safe behind the Hamilton gates. But we won’
