My next text was a cold, absolute command, a strategic move based on my intimate knowledge of the restaurant’s layout, a blueprint I knew as well as my own home.

Anna (to Chloe): “There is a heavy deadbolt on the inside of the dry-storage pantry door next to the office. Lock yourself in there immediately. Do not speak to him. Do not answer his provocations. I’m coming in.”

I stood up, my movements smooth and unhurried, the predator that has already scented the kill. The hunt was on.

Part II: The Trap is Sprung

The back office was a small, windowless box that smelled of bleach, desperation, and stale coffee. Chloe’s hands were shaking as she stared at Michael, who had his phone pressed to his ear, his back turned to her as he paced the small space.

“Yes, operator,” he said, his voice dripping with a false, saccharine concern that made Chloe’s skin crawl. “I have an employee, Chloe Vance, who has stolen a significant amount of cash from tonight’s deposit. I have her contained here in my office. Please send a unit to the Grand Imperial, Aurum restaurant, immediately.”