Chapter 16

The men were so intent on watching the topless teen squirm that they failed to notice Steve silently approach. It was the last mistake they ever made. Steve used his big knife to end the abuse of the girls. Less than thirty seconds later, the five men lay dead.

“Girls, I’m an American! I’m here to help you. Will you trust me?” asked Steve as gently as possible.

“Who wouldn’t trust Steve Hammer?” retorted the older girl as she wrapped her arms around Steve and sobbed quietly. “I knew you’d come! I even told Sam that they’d send in SEALs, and you’d be one of them.”

“You know me? I guess I can understand that, but why’d you think I’d show up here to help you?” questioned a surprised Steve.

“Jason Hunter’s one of your best friends. Everybody knows that Steve Hammer takes care of his friends. Is Jason with you?” asked the older sister.

“No, I’m alone. We’ve got to find a safer place right now,” insisted Steve as he withdrew from the girl’s embrace and quickl