The bluff seemed to work. The cashier turned to the register, but then stopped.

"Go ahead" he suddenly said. "Just try it. You pump one drop of gas on the pavement. The EPA will be all over you in a flash!"

Now it was a standoff. A minute passed but it seemed like a century as Kush considered his next move. Maybe he could threaten to buy a pack of gum and then return it unopened for a refund. 

"Give him the change!"

Turning toward Donna, they were both looking down the barrel of a high-caliber Schumacher 422. How many weapons did she have?

"I said, give him the change." She motioned Kush aside. 

"Open the register: slowly. That's good. Now, count out twenty quarters. Put them on the counter. Gently. Stacks of four. Stand back."

Still aiming at the cashier, she directed Kush. "Tom, take a five out of your wallet. Put it on the counter. Take the quarters."

"Okay Tom," she said, "run out to the bus, pay two fares, and say I'm coming right behind you." Walking backward. "Don't move until we're on the bus--got it?"