Chapter 19

“Like hell.” The man closed it, putting it back in the pack, and hooked his arm through the straps before gripping Derek’s arm, pulling him to his feet. He steered him to the fire escape, telling him one false move and he’d get to the alley much faster than if he climbed down. “But you’ll still be alive enough for us to question you,” he said threateningly.

Swallowing hard, Derek began descending. As far as he could tell, the man was alone, not that it was much consolation at the moment.

When they got to the alley, the man prodded Derek toward one end. For a second, Derek considered trying to make a run for it, but another shove with the gun made him decide it wouldn’t be the best idea he’d ever had.

When they reached the end of the alley, a car pulled up in front of it. The man ordered Derek to get in when the door swung open. When he did, the man slid in beside him and the car took off.

“Who are you?” Derek asked, trying hard to keep his voice from shaking.