HERS TO PROTECT

Chapter 22

The Revelation

Lucas's secret seemed like a live wire in the briefing room. Major Ocampo's voice was distant, struggling to cut through the fog of his thoughts. His gaze remained fixed on Lia, the woman he cared for deeply, and the truth he hadn't dared to share.

"Focus, Captain Marsden," Major Ocampo snapped, pulling him back to the present. "We need to finalize our strategy."

Lucas nodded mechanically, though his mind was elsewhere. The time to reveal everything to Lia was approaching quickly. The stakes were greater than ever, and there was no going back.

As the meeting dragged on, Lucas's eyes flicked to the clock. Time was slipping away, and he needed to confess everything to Lia before it was too late. His heart raced, each beat a reminder of the impending confrontation.

Major Ocampo spread a detailed map across the table, marked with strategic points in red and blue. "Let's review this once more. Intelligence suggests De Vega's forces are mobilizing here," He indicated locations. "And here, likely preparing for a two-pronged attack."

Lucas leaned forward, his focus sharpening. "If they strike both locations simultaneously, they'll stretch our defenses thin."

"Exactly," Ocampo affirmed. "That's why we must predict their moves and reinforce these critical positions." He indicated several key areas. "Captain Garcia, fortify this sector with your team. Captain Santos, you handle this one. Lucas, coordinate with the Intel teams. We must stay ahead of them."

"Understood," Lucas replied briskly. "We need secure communications and constant vigilance over their tactics. No room for surprises."

"Absolutely," Ocampo agreed. "Lucas, we'll need to keep your cover longer. De Vega's eyes are still on us."

Lucas stiffened. "I understand. I'll manage it." His gaze darted back to the clock. Thoughts of Lia and the secret he harbored gnawed at him, but duty demanded his full attention.

"One more thing," Ocampo added gravely. "We suspect De Vega has an informant among us. Trust no one outside this room."

A chill settled over the room at Ocampo's words. Lucas felt a shiver down his spine. Internal betrayal could destroy everything they had worked for.

"Verify your teams," Ocampo continued. "Ensure loyalty. We can't afford any weak links."

The briefing continued each officer outlining their responsibilities. Lucas took everything in, knowing he had to manage intelligence and identify threats.

"Dismissed," Major Ocampo finally declared, breaking the tense silence. The officers filed out, leaving Lucas standing alone, his determination solidifying with each passing moment.

As the room emptied, Major Ocampo pulled Lucas aside. "I know you have a lot on your mind, Captain. But remember, this mission is paramount. We need your full commitment."

"I understand, sir," Lucas replied evenly. "It's just unsettling to know the enemy is aware of our plans and still targeting me," he added, recalling his unsettling encounter with Lieutenant Colonel De Vega at the hospital.

"That's because he knows about the information your brother provided," Major Ocampo clarified. "He may not have all the knowledge now, but that may change."

Lucas locked eyes with Ocampo, his resolve strengthening. "I understand, sir. I won't let you down."

With the briefing concluded Lucas knew he had to find Lia urgently. Time was ticking, and the truth he needed to share couldn't wait any longer.