UNKNOWN GUEST

#36 Infiltration

I stared at the blue pin in my hand, turning it over between my fingers. It wasn't just any pin; it was a bug, one that Uncle Clint had given me for situations exactly like this. It was untraceable, a direct line to him whenever I needed it. I sighed, feeling the weight of the moment pressing down on me. "Screw it," I muttered under my breath. I bent down and discreetly stuck the pin under my shoe, pressing it firmly into place. Straightening up, I took a deep breath, trying to steady my nerves.

If I got caught, that would be it—game over. But taking risks was becoming second nature to me; after all, I was living three decades in the past, playing a dangerous game. What was one more gamble?

The elevator slowed to a stop, and the doors opened with a hiss. I stepped out into the cavernous hangar, my heart pounding as my eyes locked onto the three imposing helicarriers in front of me. They were massive, fully weaponized, and ready to strike at a moment's notice. The scale of the operation hit me all over again—this was no small mission.

As I moved forward, six STRIKE agents appeared, their eyes narrowing as they scanned me from head to toe. My stomach twisted, but I kept my expression calm, maintaining the cover. "Agent Sitwell sent me here," I said, trying to keep my voice steady. "I need to check on the operational hardware."

The agents didn't look convinced. Their eyes lingered on me, suspicion clear on their faces. My pulse quickened, but I stepped closer, reaching up to show them the tie pin clipped to my collar. Lowering my voice, I leaned in and whispered, "Hail Hydra."

That did the trick. The agents exchanged glances, a silent conversation passing between them. After what felt like an eternity, they nodded, allowing me to pass. I gave them a curt nod in return, pushing past them with as much confidence as I could muster.

I headed straight for one of the helicarriers, my steps quickening as I neared the massive vessel. Each step echoed in the hangar, the sound reminding me of the stakes. I was in—now came the hard part.

I stepped into the operational area, my pulse racing as I took in the sight of the three targeting blades. These were the critical components for identifying targets—without them, Project Insight was dead in the water. Glancing over my shoulder, I saw SHIELD—no, Hydra—technicians moving about, a few of them casting curious glances in my direction. I forced myself to look casual, like I was just another agent doing a routine inspection. My heart pounded in my chest, but I kept my face neutral.

Then I spotted it—a small case sitting beside the navigation keys. Perfect. I moved swiftly, picking up the targeting blades and carefully placing them into the case. The hard part now was getting them out of here without raising suspicion. I took a deep breath, trying to keep my nerves in check. 

Keep your cool, James. Don't screw this up.

With the case in hand, I turned around and started walking out of the chamber. As I moved, I felt the eyes of a few agents on me, but none of them stopped to question me. Just act normal. I forced myself to breathe steadily, each step bringing me closer to the exit. The guards stationed at the entrance gave me a suspicious look as I passed, but I managed to keep my pace steady.

Suddenly, I heard a voice behind me. "Excuse me!"

I froze, my heart leaping into my throat. I was so close—maybe 80 to 100 meters from the exit. Should I run? No, that would only confirm their suspicions. I couldn't afford to blow my cover, not yet. I turned slowly, forcing a calm expression onto my face as I saw four agents approaching me. One of them, the leader, eyed the case in my hand. "What's in your hand?" he asked, his tone demanding.

I answered confidently, "I've been asked to make some last-minute changes."

The agent frowned, shaking his head. "We haven't received any instructions."