Queen of Blackmail

“Did you get what you needed?” the man asked as soon as Natasha got back into his car. She nodded, not wanting to be overly detailed in case he tried to steal her money. “Just a little bit, but it’s better than nothing.” “Where to now?” “Could you please take me to the nearest store where I can purchase a new phone—and then to the nearest hotel that’s not too expensive?” The man drove Natasha to an electronics store, which was only a block from a hotel. “Oh, great. I can walk from the store. Thank you so much,” Natasha said as they pulled up. “I really appreciate your help. Can I give you a little money for all your trouble?” The guy turned his head and glanced at her. Much to Natasha’s dismay, she recognized that look anywhere. As a woman, she’d seen it enough times in her life. “There’s something I’d like more than money.” Without a word, Natasha reached for the door handle—but it was locked. She fumbled with the lock to no avail. “Open this door now,” she demanded. He grinned maliciously. “Do you think I’m kidding?” Her voice grew louder with anger. “I said open the fucking door.” He simply sat there, continuing to grin wickedly at her. “Don’t make me show you that I’m not kidding. Trust me, you don’t want to go there, buddy. I have quite a temper.” He didn’t flinch—probably because he was male and bigger than her. But Natasha was angrier than she’d ever been. After all she’d been through, her rage gave her the strength she needed. “OK then, I’ll show you I’m not kidding.” She slammed her fist into the guy’s temple. Stunned, he began to slump against the door, dazed but not unconscious. “Unlock the doors,” she warned, “or I’ll slam your head again… harder.” Again, he slowly cracked that sickening grin. “Oh, so you think this is funny?” Now furious, Natasha grabbed him by the back of the neck and repeatedly slammed his head into the steering wheel. A couple of passersby stopped to look into the car. With the guy finally out cold, she fumbled with the controls until she found the button that unlocked the doors. Without another word or a single glance behind her, she exited the vehicle and entered the electronics store. After purchasing a high-end Android, she checked into the local hotel. It was pricier than she’d like, but she’d only stay one night. Once in her room, she ordered room service, activated the phone, installed Tor, and made sure her VPN was turned on. Then she logged into Facebook and saw a message from Phil: A guy contacted me as you, and I’m really concerned about you. Please message me ASAP. Natasha began to reply quickly. Hey! That was me who contacted you from his laptop. I was able to hang on to my passport, thank God, so he brought me to a bank and then an electronics store where I got a new Android. Now I’m at a hotel, but only for one night. I’ve got a very damning video of Marion to share with the Munich police. I’ll explain everything when I get home. Next time I message you, I’ll tell you where and when to pick me up. Going to book a flight now. God, do I miss and love the hell out of you, Phil! With a vengeful smile, Natasha opened a new message—to Marion. She was grateful they were already “friends” on Facebook; otherwise she’d have to hope she’d check her Other inbox or spam folder. She typed a single sentence. Did you really think you could get rid of me that easily? Now it was her turn to wear a malicious grin. She knew Marion would see the message and be terrified. She just didn’t expect a reply in fifty seconds. Who’s this? Natasha typed back: Your worst nightmare about to come to life. If this is Natasha, it was out of my control and out of my hands. I never wanted this to happen to you. I’m so glad you’re safe! Where are you? You really are naïve, aren’t you? Marion wrote back again. How do I know this is really Natasha? You don’t. Do you still have the video? What video? You seriously don’t know what I’m talking about? Nope, Natasha lied again, grinning. Marion would be rattled and confused—and the police would catch her off guard, with no time to run.