“Command verification confirmed, Major.

The vault signal is live.

Federal marshals are going into the basement now.”

Two uniformed agents lugging heavy aluminum transit cases pushed past Arthur on the porch and went straight through the front door toward the basement stairs.

Harper sank down hard on the damp wooden porch step, burying her face in her hands as her shoulders heaved.

“Where are we supposed to go?” Harper sobbed through her fingers.

“They’re taking his car.