Page 52 of Taken

Are they onto me?

Fuck.

“I should review the new protocols,” I push slightly. “Ensure they align with facility standards.”

“They exceed facility standards,” one of the new security officers—Madden—interjects. “Designs came directly from Central Command.”

Creed watches my reaction, eyes narrowed slightly. “Is there a problem, Reeve?”

I hide my concern behind professional pride. “No problem. Just ensuring proper integration with existing systems.”

“Your concern is noted.” The dismissal in his tone couldn’t be clearer. “Now, about tomorrow’s schedule. The Ross girl has assured Blackthorn that she’ll be pushing for more details.”

They continue discussing Elena’s movements while I process what’s happening. I’m being edged out of the security loop. My access restricted. My authority undermined.

They suspect something.

For fuck’s sake. Stop being paranoid.

But I can’t shake the feeling. And in this business, instincts can’t be ignored.

The meeting continues for another twenty minutes. Details of surveillance placement, energy signature tracking, extraction team preparation. I contribute just enough to maintain my cover while mentally noting every new security measure they mention.

When we finally adjourn, Creed holds me back with a hand on my arm. His grip is just tight enough to remind me of the strength that lurks beneath his human form. The dragon he is.

“Reeve.” His voice drops lower. “Central Command has taken a special interest in this operation. Success here means advancement for everyone involved.” His eyes bore into mine. “But failure… well. The consequences would be equally significant.”

“I understand, sir.”

“Do you?” He releases my arm. “Sometimes I wonder where your priorities truly lie.”

Ice slides down my spine. “My loyalty to the Syndicate is absolute.”

His smile doesn’t reach his eyes. “We’ll see.”

With a curt nod, I leave, navigating the sterile corridors while my mind races. The new security measures, the tactical specialists, the subtle sidelining of my authority—all point to increasing suspicion.

Shit. Time is running out.

I need to check on Lila, but first, I need to update Viktor.

The secure transmission point is in a maintenance closet near the east wing. One of the few blind spots I’ve carefully preserved in the facility’s surveillance network.

After ensuring I’m not followed, I slip inside, extracting the comms unit and slipping it into my ear.

“Aurora actual,” I murmur, activating the quantum encryption. “Status update urgent.”

Static crackles for three seconds before Zoe’s voice filters through. “Proceed.”

“Syndicate preparing extraction team for both the Ross daughter and the Heartstone. New tactical personnel on site. Security protocols upgraded without my authorization.” I keep my voice whisper-soft. “My position may be compromised.”

“How long?” Zoe asks, voice tight.

“Days. They’re tracking her progress through Craven Industries. Once she locates the Heartstone, they move.” I glance at the door, listening for footsteps. “The daughter is developing a personal connection with Caleb Craven. Complicates matters.”

“Understood.” A pause. “And the Rossewyn witch?”

“Recovering but heavily guarded. New containment protocols, doubled security. They’re preparing to use her with the Shard. Then she’ll get the daughter to activate the Heartstone once they have it.” I hesitate. “She’s key to their entire plan, Zoe. We can’t leave her here.”

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