00:04…
Marcus forced the window open with a sharp screech of metal, the old hinges breaking loose at last.
00:03…
He swung his arm and threw the watch out with all his strength.
Time seemed to slow.
The small object spun once in the air, sunlight flashing across its surface, before it hit the pavement far below.
And then — boom!
A bright spark burst from the watch, followed by a small explosion of flame. Fire bloomed on the ground outside, the blast leaving black scorch marks on the concrete.
Marcus staggered back, raising his arm to shield his face from the flash. When he looked again, the flames were spreading from the shattered device, dark smoke curling up into the afternoon sky.
His jaw tightened, his chest heaving as he stared down at the burning spot below. The sight of it sent a chill through his blood.
This wasn't some random leak.
It was planted.
…
