Page 82 of Pursuit of Her

Eve reviewed the details, noting the intersection with ongoing cases. "Connect with Dr. Hammond regarding medical protocols. Mrs. Patterson mentioned previous injuries that might require specialized transportation."

The morning briefing convened promptly, fifteen women gathering in the conference area—some from the original network, others recruited since their legitimate establishment. Eve observed their interactions with quiet satisfaction; professionals united by purpose rather than fugitives bound by necessity.

"Three active extractions," Reagan announced, standing at the digital display board showing current cases. "Patterson family scheduled for tomorrow—wealthy husband with political connections and history of escalating violence. Garcia siblings in preparation phase—two weeks until their mother's custody hearing. Reynolds relocation in final monitoring—thirty days secure with no contact breaches."

Eve stepped forward, her leadership style complementing Reagan's shrewd focus. "The Patterson extraction requires federal coordination. Elena and Sophia will lead with full team support. Garcia preparation needs additional documentation. Mira, connect with their attorney regarding admissible evidence collection."

As the team dispersed to their responsibilities, Reagan joined Eve at the case board. "Patterson has connections to former Commissioner Brooks's nephew," she noted quietly. "Potential complications."

"I saw that," Eve acknowledged. "We've alerted federal contacts to monitor for interference."

Reagan's expression revealed momentary skepticism—the vigilante's instinctive distrust of institutional solutions never completely erased despite five years of legitimate operation.

Eve touched her arm lightly. "Different approach, same purpose," she reminded her. "We adapt."

Reagan nodded, the tension in her shoulders easing. "Client consultation at nine?"

The woman who arrived at nine looked like countless others who had found their way to Phoenix Ridge Protection Services over the past five years—professionally dressed, outwardly composed, but with the hypervigilance that came from prolonged exposure to unpredictable violence.

"Madison Wagner," Eve greeted, extending her hand. "I'm Eve Morgan. This is Reagan Shaw. Thank you for coming in today."

"Dr. Hammond said you might be able to help," Madison replied, her voice steady though her hands trembled slightly as she took the offered seat. "The police have been...unsympathetic."

Eve recognized the careful phrasing—the minimization victims often used when systems had failed them repeatedly. "Tell us what'shappening, and we'll explore options together."

As Madison described her situation—a prominent businessman husband whose public philanthropy masked private terrorism, the escalating threats when she mentioned separation, the financial control that left her without resources—Eve observed Reagan's careful attention. Five years of legitimate operation hadn't dulled her recognition of patterns or her commitment to intervention.

"His family has significant influence," Madison explained. "When I tried to file a report, I was told to be grateful for what I have. That marriages are complicated."

"We're familiar with that response," Reagan said. "It doesn't make it correct."

"What you're describing meets our criteria for comprehensive assistance," Eve explained, opening a secure tablet. "We can help with safe extraction, temporary housing, legal support, and security protocols."

Relief flickered across Madison’s face, the first genuine emotion breaking through her careful mask. "How does it work?"

Reagan moved to the digital display, bringing up a secure presentation. "We begin with comprehensive assessment and documentation. Then we develop extraction timing based on risk factors and behavior patterns."

As Reagan outlined their methodology, Eve noted how effectively she communicated security without inducing additional fear.

"We've helped over three hundred women escape similar situations," Eve added. "Including cases involving powerful men with significant resources."

"Like the Harrington extraction last year?" Madison asked. "That was your organization?"

Eve nodded. Sebastian Harrington—one of the last remaining members of the original network Reagan had targeted—had eventually been exposed through legal channels rather than vigilante justice. His wife's extraction had made headlines when he attempted to use political connections to override protective orders.

By the consultation's conclusion, Madison had transitioned from cautious hope to active participation, reviewing initial safety protocols and scheduling her next appointment. After Elena escorted her out through their secure exit, Reagan turned to Eve.

"Textbook isolation and control tactics," she observed. "Michael Wagner shows all the high-risk indicators."

"We'll need federal coordination given her husband's connections," Eve agreed. "And additional documentation of financial evidence."

Reagan's expression momentarily darkened. "Five years of legitimate operation and we still encounter the same patterns of protected abuse."

Eve recognized the flash of the vigilante beneath the legitimate security consultant. "We've made progress," she reminded her. "District Attorney Powell's domestic violence task force was directly influenced by our documentation. Captain Foster's department reforms have increased successful prosecutions by sixty percent."

"Still too many who escape consequences," Reagan countered, though without the bitterness that might have colored similar observations years earlier.

"Which is why both approaches remain necessary," Eve said. "Legal reform and independent protection services. Neither is sufficient alone."

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