Page 52 of Undercover Hearts
The accuracy of the assessment startled Michelle. She covered her reaction by turning back to the laptop.
"You should review these extraction coordinates," she said instead of acknowledging Jenna's statement. "Familiarize yourself with all potential exit routes from Sienna's property."
Jenna didn't move. "Twenty-four hours ago, you told me what we have matters to you beyond the operation."
"It does," Michelle admitted, the truth slipping out despite her resolve. She immediately retreated back behind professional barriers. "But the operation takes precedence until it’s done. Three women deserve justice."
"Justice isn't threatened by human connection," Jenna countered. "If anything, it's strengthened by it."
Michelle couldn't allow herself to consider that perspective, not when everything she'd been taught in her career arguedthe opposite. Emotional investment clouded judgment. Personal feelings created vulnerabilities that opponents could exploit. The higher the stakes, the more critical the emotional distance.
"We'll continue this discussion after tomorrow's operation concludes," Michelle said, the promise of future conversation a small concession she allowed herself.
Something in Jenna's expression suggested she recognized the offered compromise. With a slight nod, she crossed to the table and accepted the mission files.
"The extraction point at the northern boundary requires ten minutes to reach from the main house," she noted, adjusting smoothly to the professional discussion. "We should verify alternate routes."
Relief mingled with regret as Michelle observed how quickly Jenna adapted to the reinstated professional boundaries. They worked through extraction scenarios, their personal connection temporarily submerged beneath operational focus.
Yet as darkness settled over Phoenix Ridge, Michelle couldn't ignore the growing certainty that her attempt at emotional withdrawal had come too late. The damage—or perhaps the miracle—had already occurred. Whatever happened tomorrow, she would never view partnership the same way again.
And that terrified her more than any criminal organization ever could.
The Phoenix Women's Collective headquarters had transformed overnight, its welcoming atmosphere replaced by tactical efficiency. Security personnel stationed at key points, new cameras installed at entrances, and restricted access signs on previously open areas—all indicators that the organization hadshifted into operational mode, dropping any pretense of being merely a women's advocacy group.
"Michelle, Jenna." Kendall approached as they signed in. "Sienna's waiting in the command center."
The secure conference room had evolved into a true command center: multiple monitors displaying security feeds, shipping manifests, and coastal property layouts. Several unfamiliar women worked at computer stations, their focus intense and unwavering.
Sienna and Mina stood at the head of the table, studying tablet screens. They looked up as Michelle and Jenna entered.
"Perfect timing," Sienna said, her usual polished charisma replaced by crisp authority. "Mina was just reviewing transportation logistics."
Kendall distributed security badges with embedded chips. "These provide access to the beach house and essential operational areas. You'll surrender your standard credentials when you arrive this afternoon."
Michelle attached her badge, quickly analyzing how the electronic tracking would complicate their extraction plans.
"Alina's assigning final positions for tonight's operation," Sienna continued. "Michelle, I'd like you to coordinate with the warehouse team. Jenna, your communications background will be valuable in the documentation center."
The assignments would separate them during critical phases. Michelle maintained a neutral expression despite her internal alarm.
"We're happy to help wherever needed," she replied with professional enthusiasm.
"The warehouse team could use your expertise with inventory systems," Mina explained to Michelle. "Previous shipments required extensive reconciliation between manifests and actual contents."
Kendall interrupted, addressing Jenna. "The verification team needs communication support. Nicole's coordinating the documentation center where you'll be stationed."
Michelle tensed at Nicole's name. Their investigation had confirmed Nicole's direct connection to Beatrice Leblanc's death. Placing Jenna under her supervision presented specific dangers.
Sienna addressed the room, commanding attention. "Ladies, we've been planning this shipment for months. It represents our largest operation to date, with distribution channels extending throughout the western seaboard. Tonight's timeline is precise: shipment arrival at 2300 hours, processing until 0300, distribution assignments by 0500."
As the briefing continued, Michelle calculated police intervention timing. The tactical teams would be in position by 2200 hours, giving them an hour of observation before moving once the shipment arrived.
"Questions?" Sienna concluded.
Nicole raised her hand. "The new members' verification status?"
"Background verification continues," Kendall replied, eyes narrowing as they fixed on Michelle and Jenna. "Final clearance pending tonight's performance."
