Chapter 7

Patricia steered off Interstate 93 and pulled into the nearest gas station she could spot. She took a minute to freshen up and then filled the car up with gas, along with a hefty load of snacks and drinks. Before heading to the bank, she did something she hadn't done since she was thirteen—she removed the chain from around her neck. Slamming her foot down on it, she watched as it crumpled and popped open, revealing the key hidden inside. Carefully stashing the precious stones in her wallet, she strode into the bank and approached a desk.

Telling the woman she needed access to the vault, she flashed her key without hesitation. After confirming her identity, the woman asked for her name and password, which Patricia provided swiftly. With a green light indicating acceptance, she was escorted to the vault. Inserting her key into the appropriate box, she retrieved hers and followed the woman to a private booth.

Inside, she sifted through the contents of the box. Amidst s