Chapter 41

I closed my eyes, waited for the inevitable. The tick-tock of kitchen clock seemed slow compared to my thumping heart.

“Fucking shit, it jammed,” Ivan hissed under his breath.

I couldn’t see what Ivan was doing with his hands, but heard noises, clicks. A metal clip came off. He was trying to unjam the gun.

Ivan’s swearing stopped. I didn’t know why until he motioned with his finger to remain quiet.

Then I heard it.

Footsteps.

Knock. Knock.

“Mommy, Daddy’s not answering,” My daughter sounded frustrated. Her voice carried through the door.

Ivan pointed the gun at me, motioned me to be quiet, and pointed the gun at the door. To threaten me, if I didn’t comply.

I prayed.

Oh my God, please send them away

“Honey, did you ring the doorbell?” Elena’s voice.

“I did, but didn’t hear anything.”

“All right.” I heard Elena sigh. “Yup, the chime’s not working. That’s strange.”

Ivan held his palm out to signal me.

He motioned to the gun.

Knock, Knock. Then a pause.