Chapter 1

"Callum, you're not seriously going to make me stand out here forever, are you?"

"Open the door!" The five people behind her started shouting too.

Some sprayed the windows with water guns. Others used their phones to record the license plate.

I slowly pulled my hand back, grabbed the tactical rifle, and racked the bolt.

The driver, George Critchlow, glanced at me.

He understood at once and pressed the lock button on the center console. "Deadbolts. Lock everything down!"

The entire armored truck instantly sealed shut.

I picked up the radio and calmly said, "Control, this is Armored Unit Three. We're being blocked by unknown people at the Valentine's Day celebration. They may be armed and are refusing to leave the area."

The warning lights on the roof came on at the same time, followed by a sharp siren.

Red and blue lights flashed across the bulletproof windows.

The crowd taking pictures on the side of the road quickly backed away.

The five people in masks who had been laughing just moments ago also froze.

They were only holding water guns, but once the alarm went off, they no longer dared to take the risk.

Yvonne Levy froze. "Callum, have you lost your mind?"

I pressed the truck's loudspeaker. "Everyone in front of the vehicle, step away immediately. This is an armed bank transport vehicle. No one is allowed to approach or touch the vehicle or its doors. I repeat, step away immediately."

Her face grew darker. "I was preparing a Valentine's Day surprise for you! Do you have any idea how embarrassing you've made me look in front of everyone?"

I looked at her. "Back up."

But she suddenly aimed the water gun at the window. "Didn't you say I'm the person you care about most? Then prove it! You have two choices. Open the door or admit that you only care about money!"

The comments appeared in front of my eyes again.

[She's trying to force you to open the door.]

[Someone is approaching from the rear side of the truck. Don't get out.]

[In your previous life, this was the moment she sent you into a deadly trap.]

I was already completely disheartened.

I picked up the radio and directly requested backup. "The people at the scene continue to approach. Requesting SWAT assistance."

Yvonne finally panicked. "Callum, you actually called the cops?"

I pushed the tactical rifle into firing position. "Why not?"