Annabelle's heart sank. It seemed they had encountered robbers, though she hadn't expected such audacity in broad daylight.
She exchanged a glance with Uncle Trey, who said calmly, "Don't panic. If they're just after money, we have nothing to fear."
Annabelle nodded, slowing down the car and coming to a halt a short distance from the barricade.
Seven or eight men swaggered toward them. Leading the group was a buzz-cut man spinning a knife in his hand, seemingly their leader. The others wielded long metal rods.
The men quickly surrounded Annabelle's car. The buzz-cut man rapped on the window and gestured for her to get out.
"Step out for a chat, beautiful," he sneered.
Uncle Trey immediately warned, "Don't listen to him."
Annabelle had no intention of complying. Getting out would put
