BOUND TO THE BEAST
I force myself not to blink, not to show fear.
Finally, Viktor nods to one of his men. "Release them."
The coffee shop door opens. The hostages stumble out, crying, running. The mother with the baby sprints past me. The elderly couple holds each other up as they flee.
I watch them go, relief flooding through me. They're safe. Whatever happens now, they're safe.
"The USB," Viktor demands, holding out his hand.
"Not yet. I want Luca's safety guaranteed too."
Viktor laughs. "My dear, you're in no position to negotiate."