The door handle turned with a metallic click. Thomas slipped back inside, his face grim.

"Where did you go?" I asked, relief flooding through me.

"Scouting escape routes. We need to move soon."

But Carlos was already standing, that predatory gleam back in his eyes. "Perfect timing, Thomas. We were just discussing our new plan."

"What plan?"

"Trading your girlfriend here for our freedom."

Thomas's hand moved to the knife in his jacket. "Not happening."

"Five against one, friend," Dixon ...