If you’ve got nothing to hide, this won’t take long. Kevin’s hand twitched toward his pocket, and Tom’s eyes followed the movement. His muscles tensed as he prepared for the possibility of a weapon.
Instead, Kevin pulled out his wallet and thrusted at Tom with an angry scowl. There. Happy now? He sneered.
Tom took the wallet but didn’t open it. He wanted to keep Kevin distracted and off balance for as long as possible. Thanks.
Stay here while I take a look. He turned and took a step toward his rental car. Using the opportunity to glance at Rachel, she was sitting perfectly still, her hands clasped tightly in her lap, her terrified eyes locked onto his, and he mouthed two words, stay calm.
Kevin, meanwhile, was growing increasingly agitated. He shifted his weight from foot to foot, his fists clenching and unclenching at his sides. Look, I don’t have time for this, he snapped.
I’ve got places to be. Tom shot him a pointed look. Then you should have thought about that before causing a scene.
The tension crackled in the air between them, heavy and volatile. Tom’s mind raced, calculating his next move. He needed to keep Kevin here for just a few more minutes.
But how? Suddenly, Kevin lunged toward him, his hand reaching for his wallet. Give that back, he yelled. Tom sidestepped again, narrowly avoiding the grab.
Calm down, he said firmly. You’re only making things worse. Kevin’s face contorted with rage.
And for a moment, Tom thought he might attack. But before Kevin could make another move, the distant sound of sirens filled the air. The sound seemed to drain the fight out of him.
His shoulders slumped, and his gaze darted wildly around the parking lot. No, no, no, he muttered under his breath. This can’t be happening.
Tom took a step closer, his voice low and steady. It’s over. Kevin, let the girl go.
Kevin’s head snapped up, his eyes blazing with desperation. You don’t understand, he hissed. I had no choice.
There’s always a choice, Tom replied. And you’re about to make the right one. Let her go.
And this doesn’t have to end badly. For a long moment, Kevin seemed to consider his options. Then, with a resigned sigh, he stepped away from the car.
Tom didn’t let his guard down, but he allowed himself a small glimmer of hope. Rachel, he called gently, keeping his eyes on Kevin. Come here.
You’re safe now. Rachel hesitated, her small hands trembling as she reached for the door handle. When the door finally opened, she stepped out on shaky legs and ran to Tom, throwing her arms around his waist.