Page 117 of Bennett

It read like a warning. Like a lifeline. But it could just as easily be a trap.

His mind flashed through every possibility. Theo using Laurel to draw him out. Theo working both sides.

Theo finishing what he’d started all those years ago.

But his gut said no, not this time.

And if he was wrong?

He’d still take that risk because if Laurel was in danger, he wasn’t going to sit here and think it through.

He hit Laurel’s contact and pressed the phone to his ear.

One ring. Two.

Then straight to voicemail.

His gut clenched. That wasn’t right.

He fired off a quick text to her—Call me. Now.—but he already knew it was a waste of time.

She wasn’t answering.

And that silence told him everything.

Mac’s head lifted, his sharp gaze locking on Bennett. “What is it?”

“Laurel’s not picking up,” Bennett replied, his voice tight. “I just got a message from an unlisted number. Said she’s in trouble.”

A beat of silence. Then Bennett grabbed his go-bag from the hook by the door and slung it over his shoulder. “I’m heading to Winslow Crossing.”

Mac didn’t blink. “Take Matthew. Carter, pull exterior cam footage from the block—every angle, every second. Look for Hess or anyone who doesn’t belong.”

“I’m already on it,” Carter said, his fingers tapping away. “Her apartment is clear. Can’t check the shop. Brandi wasn’t ready for the system, yet. I’ll flag any unfamiliar vehicles or movement near the storefront.”

Gabe’s voice cracked over speaker. “I’m on my way.”

Mac turned to Carter. “Get any visual confirmation to Gabe ASAP.”

Carter nodded. “Roger that.”

Bennett didn’t wait for more. He was already at the door, pulse hammering, boots pounding the floor.

Mac’s voice followed him out. “Check in the second you see her.”

“I will,” Bennett said without looking back.

He hit the sidewalk at a run, every step fueled by one thought:

Don’t be too late.

***

The red gas can hit the floor with a dull thunk.

The gun didn’t.

Laurel’s heart slammed into her ribs like it wanted out. Every instinct screamed to run, to hide, to scream, but her body froze as if chained in place. Her mind raced with plans that never reached the surface.

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