"Vania! Answer your phone—right now!"

Devandra’s voice echoed through the apartment hallway as he pounded on Vania’s door, panic surging in every knock. His breath was ragged, sweat beading on his forehead despite the cold air conditioning. He had just received a message from an unknown number—clear as day: Vania’s best friend, Tania, had been kidnapped. Along with the message came a photo—and a threat.

The door creaked open slowly. Vania stood there, pale-faced, her eyes ...