Chapter 96

NINETY-SIX

Barb hated the bastard with every fiber of her being. She had no illusion that he was going to let her or the girls live. But if she cooperated, maybe she could buy some time.

He gestured to the bag he'd tossed her way.

"Change. Police are searching for both of us. We're going in disguise," he snapped.

She glanced in the bag, her stomach knotting. A Mrs. Santa Claus suit. Clever. They'd appear non-threatening.

But she wanted to see his damn face. "Don't you think the police will be looking for a Santa?"

A deep laugh rumbled from him. "Won't matter today. There's a Santa parade. There'll be dozens in town."

Biting her lip in frustration, she indicated her bound hands. "I can't change with my hands tied."

He stalked toward her then gripped her chin and forced her to look into his eyes. "Try anything and you'll be sorry."

She was tempted to spit at him, to fight him. But precious Mazie's life was at stake. He didn't bother to turn his head so she pulled the outfit on over her clothes.

Her pulse jumped as he dragged her outside and locked Mazie inside the building which she realized was an old, abandoned chicken house.

Her breath lodged in her chest as he shoved her toward his van. He pushed her inside and she was forced to let him buckle her seatbelt. She almost laughed at the irony. He was using seatbelts for safety while his sinister intentions were clear.

She had to play along. In town, maybe she could warn Loretta and get help.

"If you want the girls to live, keep your mouth shut," he growled as he started the engine.

His dark gray eyes burned with a menacing look. Something about them seemed familiar and made chills ripple through her. Had she met this man before?