Austin paced in a secluded corner, his movements tense as he waited. Glancing at his wristwatch with growing impatience, he exhaled sharply—just as a car came speeding recklessly into the alley. The tires screeched as it halted abruptly beside him.

The driver’s door swung open, and out he stepped, a strange grin plastered on his face. “Did I keep you waiting too long?” His tone was almost teasing, but there was something unsettling about it.

Austin shifted ...