diff --git a/cmd/bd/direct_mode.go b/cmd/bd/direct_mode.go
index ff305aa1..afb1aa13 100644
--- a/cmd/bd/direct_mode.go
+++ b/cmd/bd/direct_mode.go
@@ -81,8 +81,9 @@ func ensureStoreActive() error {
 	}
 
 	// Use factory to create the appropriate backend (SQLite, Dolt embedded, or Dolt server)
-	// based on metadata.json configuration
-	store, err := factory.NewFromConfig(getRootContext(), beadsDir)
+	// based on metadata.json configuration, with lock timeout support for multi-agent operations
+	opts := factory.Options{LockTimeout: lockTimeout}
+	store, err := factory.NewFromConfigWithOptions(getRootContext(), beadsDir, opts)
 	if err != nil {
 		// Check for fresh clone scenario (JSONL exists but no database)
 		if _, statErr := os.Stat(jsonlPath); statErr == nil {