The raccoons, unpredictably curious, posed another challenge. Any sudden movement could startle them into alerting the humans. Marcus bided his time, scanning for a diversion. He spotted a lantern near oily rags. A well-placed fire could create the distraction he needed, though it carried huge risks.
He inched toward the lantern, nerves jangling. The criminals argued about their next haul, tossing aside less valuable items. Raccoons scuttled around, rummaging for anything metallic or reflective. Marcus’s breath turned shallow. His grip tightened on the lantern, careful not to upset the flame prematurely. One slip could end everything.