Hours passed as they strategized, the whiteboard filling up with notes, names, and connections. The rain continued to pelt against the windows, a rhythmic reminder of the storm brewing outside—both in the weather and within their plans.
“Alright, we’ve got a solid outline here,” Rico said, stepping back to survey their work. “If we can get this information into the right hands, we can put enough pressure on Bennett to make him slip.”
Jack nodded, his eyes scanning the notes. “We should also think about gathering more evidence. If we can provide undeniable proof of his operations, it’ll make our case much stronger.”
Sarah leaned forward, her fingers tapping on the table. “What about Kade? He knows Marla. If anyone can help us dig deeper, it’s him. He might have more intel on Bennett’s latest moves.”
Rico raised an eyebrow. “You think he’d be willing to help us? He seemed pretty reluctant when you spoke to him.”
“He was cautious, but I think if we frame it right, he’ll see the benefits of taking Bennett down. After all, Bennett’s a threat to everyone, including Kade and Marla,” Sarah replied, determination in her voice.
“Then we should reach out to him,” Jack suggested. “The sooner we make contact, the better.”
Just as they began to plan their next move, Sarah’s phone buzzed again. This time, it was a call from an unknown number. She exchanged a glance with Jack and Rico before answering, her heart racing. “Hello?”
“Sarah, it’s Kade,” came the voice on the other end, low and serious. “I heard you were looking for me.”
“I am,” she replied, her pulse quickening. “I have a lead on Marla, and I need your help.”
There was a brief silence before Kade spoke again. “You’re getting into dangerous territory. Bennett won’t take kindly to anyone poking around in his business.”
“I know the risks,” she said firmly. “But we have to stop him. There’s too much at stake.”
Kade sighed, and she could hear the tension in his voice. “Meet me at the old docks in an hour. I can give you some information, but you need to be prepared for anything.”
“Got it. I’ll be there,” Sarah said before ending the call. She turned to Jack and Rico, excitement coursing through her veins. “Kade’s agreed to meet. He might have more intel on Marla and Bennett’s operations.”
“Good. We can’t waste any time,” Rico said, gathering his things. “Let’s get moving.”
As they stepped out into the rain-soaked streets, the world around them felt charged with anticipation. The city was alive, but it felt different—danger lurked in every shadow, and they were all acutely aware of it.
They arrived at the docks, the salty air biting at their skin as they navigated through the mist. The old warehouses loomed around them, casting eerie silhouettes against the darkened sky. Sarah’s heart raced as she spotted Kade leaning against a weathered post, his hood pulled low over his face.
“Kade,” she called, her voice cutting through the silence.
He turned, his sharp gaze locking onto hers. “You came.”
“Of course I did. I need to know what you have,” Sarah said, her tone urgent.
Kade nodded, stepping closer. “I’ve heard things—rumors about Bennett’s next shipment. It’s bigger than anything he’s done before. If it goes through, it could solidify his hold on the city.”
“Where’s it happening?” Jack interjected, his voice steady.
“There’s a warehouse on the south side of the docks. He’s planning to move the product in the next few days. If you want to disrupt it, you’ll need a solid plan,” Kade replied, his eyes darting around as if he feared being overheard.
Sarah felt a surge of adrenaline. “We have to act before it happens. If we can get evidence of this shipment, it could be the breakthrough we need to expose him.”
Kade’s expression shifted slightly, a glimmer of something—fear, respect, or perhaps even admiration. “You’re bold, I’ll give you that. But you need to understand, Bennett won’t hesitate to eliminate anyone who threatens him. This isn’t just a game anymore; it’s life or death.”
“I’m willing to take that risk,” Sarah said, her voice unwavering. “For Elizabeth, for everyone who’s suffered because of him.”
Kade studied her for a moment, and then nodded slowly. “Alright. I’ll help you, but you need to be careful. I can get you inside the warehouse, but once you’re in, it’s on you.”
“Just tell me what I need to do,” Sarah replied, ready for action.
As Kade laid out the plan, Sarah felt a newfound sense of purpose. This was her chance to confront Bennett and finally uncover the truth about Elizabeth. With Jack and Rico by her side, they were ready to take the fight to the heart of the enemy’s operations, and nothing would stand in their way.