Three police cars drove fast toward the industrial neighborhood near the river docks.
Clara sat in the backseat of the lead cruiser with Leo right beside her.
The boy held tightly to Clara's hand as the siren blared above them.
Leo: Do you think my mom is okay in there?
Clara: We are almost there, Leo.
Clara: The police are going to protect her no matter what happens.
The patrol cars pulled up outside a tall rusty steel warehouse building.
A black van matching Leo's handwritten numbers was parked near the loading dock bay.
Officer Miller unholstered his flashlight and signaled for backup officers to move around back.
Officer Miller: Stay inside the vehicle, ma'am, until we clear the area!
Clara: Understood officer, please be extremely careful inside!
The officers pushed open the heavy steel side door with a loud screech.
Inside the dark building, echoing voices could be heard coming from an upper office room.
Guard 1: Boss said we hold her here until the evening flight to Mexico!
Guard 2: Just make sure she stays quiet until the money hits our account!
Officer Miller kicked open the office door and flashed his bright light across the room.
Officer Miller: Police! Put your hands in the air right now!
Officer Miller: Do not move a single muscle!
The two guards instantly raised their hands and dropped their keys onto the floor.
Tied to a wooden chair in the corner of the room sat a frail woman.
Her hair was messy, but her tear-filled eyes shone bright in the dark room.
Sarah: Please... my son Leo... is he safe?
Officer Miller: Your son is outside right now, ma'am.
Officer Miller: He brought us right to you.