“I am the city’s favorite son,” Kane said.

“And you are a thug from the West Side.”

“Who do you think they will believe?”

I looked past him to the small window behind the desk.

The snow was falling faster now, thick white sheets blocking the view of the harbor.

But I could still see the red and blue flashing lights at the main gate.

They were waiting.

My thumb hovered over the side button of my phone.

One press would trigger the silent broadcast, sending the recorded file and the live audio straight to every newsroom in Chicago.

“You really think you’re safe,” I said.

“I know I am,” Kane replied.

“Now, make your choice.”

“Do you save your family, or do you destroy us both?”

Behind Kane, the heavy oak door to the lower deck slowly began to turn.

A thin line of light appeared in the dark wood.

I held my breath.

The brass handle clicked, and the door swung open three inches.

A small hand reached through the gap.

Eli’s face appeared in the narrow opening, his eyes wide with fear.