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“Elliot and Peter.”

The room becomes quiet.

Ben isn’t interested in receiving credit for capturing Simon’s men.

He wants to bring the hostages home.

Marquez looks at the four SEALs.

“You remain under the direction of my tactical commander. You observe and provide protective support. If we locate the hostages, federal agents make the entry.”

“And if someone tries to kill them before your agents arrive?” Scott asks.

“Then you protect their lives.”

“That’s all we need,” Ben says.

I move closer to him.

“What about Simon?”

“We make him choose,” Ben answers.

“Between what?”

“His people and Grandpa’s evidence.”

“And if he chooses the evidence?”

“Then he leaves Elliot and Peter behind.”

For the first time, Simon’s willingness to sacrifice people may work in our favor.

Marquez begins issuing orders.

A Coast Guard officer will tell Kessler, within range of his attorney, that the winding key was recovered and Hazel’s trunk will be transported by water.

The officer will also mention the departure time.

Midnight.

Simon will have less than two hours to prepare.

A duplicate steamer trunk will be loaded into a secured vehicle at Hazel’s apartment and driven to a Coast Guard dock. Cameras will make certain it can be seen.

The real trunk will remain exactly where it is.

Marquez turns to my family.

“None of you will leave this base.”

Storm opens her mouth.

Ward touches her arm. “Don’t.”

“I wasn’t going to argue.”

“You took a breath.”