They laughed when a ragged boy walked into the bank with a worn bag—until he opened it, and the manager’s face went pale as he realized who the boy was

lowering his voice the same way Hale had. “I don’t want to play games anymore, Marcus.”

Hale’s expression hardened. “Then don’t.”

Caldwell inhaled slowly, then stepped back—deliberately, clearly—away from the office door. He raised his hands slightly, almost like a surrender, and spoke loudly enough for Emily and the nearby staff to hear.

“Marcus Hale continue reading …