Chapter 19
As rescues go, it might have had a chance. Kendall and I had the benefit of surprise, and Jack took a few steps back from Webb and Anna when I pointed the gun at him.
Kendall helped Anna up, then pushed Webb toward Jack. “Hands up. Don’t move.”
But Jacob Graham had gotten the advantage of Claudine. She was pinned under him on the ground now, gasping for breath.
“Graham!” I ran over to them, holding the derringer in both hands, steady at his head. “I will shoot you if necessary. Let her go. It’s over.”
“Not quite.” A woman’s voice, cold and flat, was followed by the sound of a shotgun bolt being pulled back. I turned to see Mrs. Webb striding toward us, pointing the barrel straight at Claudine. “Drop your weapon, Miss Hamilton.”
I had no choice but to comply. We were quickl
