Chapter 279

Evelyn Sullivan withdrew her hand with cold indifference. "Suit yourself."

Samuel Reynolds' forehead glistened with sweat. He'd only intended to extort money from Sophia, not gamble with his life.

Ethan Sullivan glanced at the timer, his voice icy. "Eighteen minutes left. The bomb squad won't make it."

"Then... I'm dead?"

Samuel's eyes flashed with venom. "If I die, you're all coming with me!"

Evelyn lowered her gaze, considering. "I can disarm it."

"How do I know you're not trying to kill me?"

She nearly laughed at his stupidity. "I'll be right beside you. If it blows, we all go."

His Adam's apple bobbed as he hesitated.

"Well?" Evelyn checked the timer impatiently. "Keep wasting time and everyone dies."

"Fine... Fine! Do it!"

A deep voice cut in.

"I'll help."

Evelyn frowned at Ethan. "Stay out of this!"

Bomb disposal left no room for error. She wouldn't risk him.

He stepped beside her anyway.

"Don't be afraid. I'm here."

"I said no!" Her glare could freeze lava. "Get out now!"

"I know some bomb mechanics."

"I don't need—"

"Fifteen minutes left." Ethan watched the timer. "Keep arguing?"

Her jaw clenched. "Your funeral."

When the scissors arrived, only the three remained in the hall. Samuel's legs shook—he finally believed the bomb was real.

Each tick echoed like Death's footsteps. Beads of sweat formed on Evelyn's brow. The device was simple, but every wire glowed crimson.

With two wires remaining, time nearly expired.

"Do you even know what you're doing?!" Samuel's voice trembled.

"Shut up!"

Evelyn inhaled sharply and turned to Ethan. "Step back."

Once he retreated to safety, she gripped the scissors.

Snip.

One red wire severed.