Caleb drew a breath, lifting his hands slightly.
"Calm down… chill…" his tone flat but firm. "If that's what you came for… I'll hand it over."
He stepped slowly toward the busted couch in the corner. Every pair of eyes followed him, clubs and knives raised higher, ready to strike if he made a wrong move.
With steady motions, Caleb dug into the ripped stuffing. His fingers brushed cold metal, and slowly he pulled out Mike's phone.
"This what you want?" He lifted it just enough for the eight girls to see. Their faces tightened instantly.
One of them edged a step forward, fingers trembling though her gaze was sharp with vengeance. But the girl holding the knife cut her off, eyes blazing at Caleb. The blade's tip rose close to his face.
"Take off the mask," she demanded, voice cold as steel. "Now."
Caleb stood still, phone still in his grip. His eyes narrowed slightly.
If I comply, they'll know exactly who I am… If I don't, blood's gonna hit the floor.
