As they settled into the relative safety of the nondescript apartment, Claus's mind raced with questions. The Beast's sudden knowledge of their plan and the order for his termination gnawed at him. He needed answers.

Turning to Cody, Claus asked with a mix of frustration and concern, "Cody, what's the update on Antonio and his men? Could they have leaked our plan to the Beast?"

"That is not possible. They didn't know about this plan or our whereabouts." Mia said.

Cody's voice, steady and ...