You just dont seem totally into this, he finally said as he turned off the Pacific Coast Highway and started up a winding road overlooking the Pacific Ocean. I think they want to look you in the eye and see if youre really serious.

They were nearing the top of the hill, where the road dead-ended at a massive gated mansion. Hannah wanted to look in the side view mirror to see if the undercover vehicles were behind her. But she knew that would draw Ricos suspicion. Besides, if they were any good, she wouldnt see a thing.

Is this it? she asked as the car started to slow.

He nodded. Hannah realized that once they entered the property, shed be stuck. The gate walls were easily ten feet high. Even if the cops were right behind her, by the time they got in, Ricos bosses would have enough time to do her all kinds of harm.

This was her only chance to bail. The car would have to stop while the gate opened. She looked over at Rico, whose hands were clenching the steering wheel so tightly that his knuckles were white. He was terrified. This was bad. She undid her seatbelt before reaching over and grabbing the passenger door handle. Nothing happened. It was locked.

What the hell? Rico said, looking over at her with confused anger.

If he pulled out a gun, she was trapped. She felt as close to scared as she had since Jessies ex-husband tried to kill her. It was a rare and almost welcome emotion.

Im so nervous, she said, trying to salvage the situation. I think Im gonna throw up. Youve got to let me out for a second.

Were here, he protested. Just wait a minute until we get inside.

If you make me wait, theres gonna be puke all over your car, she told him, lifting her hand to her closed mouth as if she was trying to hold it in.

Jeez, okay. Hold on!

He popped the lock. She opened the door and got out, facing back down the hill and doubling over. For a second she thought she might actually vomit. Her whole body pulsed with excitement. Her heart was beating fast. She had goose bumps. There was perspiration on her forehead. She was nauseated and exhilarated all at once. It was amazing.

After a moment she sensed she wasnt going to throw up after all. But she had to make it convincing so she made retching sounds as she looked back down the hill. A hundred yards away, she saw an unremarkable sedan idling. Behind her, she heard the sound of the mansion gates creaking open. Glancing over to make sure Rico couldnt see her, she waved frantically for the car to come.