“He blocked the outgoing data transfer to Vanguard’s network.”

“And he traced the destination IP address directly to their corporate office.”

The masked man looked at Martin.

“You told me this was a done deal,” the man said.

“It is!” Martin shouted, his voice cracking.

“I have the physical plans right here in the bag!”

He threw the leather bag toward the masked man.

The man caught it by the strap.

“This is useless without the digital keys,” the man said.

“We need the project files.”

“I can get them!” Martin promised, his hands shaking.

“Just get me out of here!”

My father took a step toward the masked man.

“You might want to drop the bag,” my father said.

“The police are already on their way.”

“The security silent alarm was triggered five minutes ago.”

The masked man looked at the open door behind him, then at the bag.

He hesitated for a second.

Then, he dropped the crowbar on the floor.

He turned and ran out into the alley.

“Wait!” Martin screamed, running after him.

“Don’t leave me here!”

Martin stumbled over the metal door frame.