A Scary Gamble

The clock is ticking for Leo.

A Scary Gamble

Leo needs this to work. Time is running out and they'd be here for their cash. He knows exactly where it is, but has to convince the group that he doesn't know.


A single, dim incandescent bulb illuminates the small bedroom with tousled sheets, scattered clothes, and a single four-drawer dresser. Anyone from the group can easily bust into his room, defeating his cheap lock.


He hears footsteps downstairs.


They're in the house.


His lungs bellow, his eyes never leaving the door. He hits his vape pen when footsteps ascend the staircase. They're closing in. Leo didn't stop rocking until the footsteps stop right outside.


This is an act of desperation for him. His role in the heist was compromised, and everything happening right now is part of his plea deal, but he believes he won't be alive long enough to plea for anything.


BOOM!!!


Leo nearly jumps out his skin. The door burst open. He stares up at his three buddies with their weapons drawn.


Time stands still for Leo.


"Where is it?" the slim man brandishing a silver-plated weapon asks.


Leo holds up his hands. "Alright! Alright! I'll tell you, damn! His eyes float to his dresser, then he hikes his head. "It's in the top drawer. But, if you open it, you're gonna get caught."


"Why?"


"It's boobytrapped to send a signal to the police."


"I don't believe you. You ain't that slick."


Leo drops his hands, then defiantly says, "Okay. Go ahead and open it."


A long moment of silence suffocates the room.


Waving his weapon, the slim man says, "You open it."


Leo smirks, then replies, "It doesn't matter who opens it. The trigger is set, and they knew you'd be here."


The sting is successful, and Leo manages to live that night.