Collateral Blood

29

The atmosphere in the Black Vipers' underground headquarters was one of focused intensity. Lucas stood at the centre of the dimly lit room, a massive map of the city sprawled out on a table before him. The map was marked with various pins and notes, each indicating potential targets, safe houses, and key locations. The air was thick with the scent of cigars and the murmur of low voices discussing plans.

Lucas's face was set in grim determination. His eyes, sharp and calculating, scanned the map as he contemplated his next move. Beside him, Liam and a few trusted lieutenants were deep in conversation about the specifics of the upcoming assault. The room was filled with a sense of urgency, as if they were all acutely aware of the ticking clock.

"Have we confirmed the location of Harry's new base?" Lucas asked, his voice cutting through the murmur.

Liam, a man known for his ruthless efficiency, nodded. "Yes, we've got a reliable source. It's a remote location, off the grid, but we've got eyes on it. The crew's been moving supplies in and out, and it's heavily guarded."

Lucas's lips curled into a smirk. "Perfect. That's where we'll hit them. But we need to be smart about this. We're not just going in for a simple raid. We need to make sure they're caught completely off guard."

One of Lucas's lieutenants, a man named Derek, stepped forward. "We've got our men in place. But there's been a complication. We have a mole in Harry's crew."

Lucas's brows knitted together. "A mole?"

"Yes," Derek confirmed. "Someone's been feeding us real-time information. They've been keeping us updated on Harry's movements and plans."

Lucas's eyes gleamed with a dangerous light. "Excellent. That will give us the edge we need. But we need to make sure we don't tip them off. If they suspect anything, they'll go to ground and we'll be back to square one."

Liam nodded in agreement. "What's the next move?"

Lucas took a deep drag from his cigar, exhaling slowly. "We'll set up a series of diversions. False leads, traps, whatever it takes to keep them disoriented. We'll lure them into a false sense of security, then hit them hard."

He glanced over at the map again, his mind racing through the intricacies of the plan. "We'll also use Sloan as bait. Make them think we're willing to trade her for the product. It'll force Harry into a position where he has to make a decision—compromise or fight."

Liam's expression hardened. "And what about the product?"

"We retrieve it, of course," Lucas said, his tone cold. "But we also make sure they know who's in control. Harry's become a thorn in my side. This is about more than just getting our stuff back. It's about sending a message."

As Lucas spoke, his mind shifted to personal vendetta. Harry had embarrassed him, disrupted his operations, and challenged his authority. This assault wasn't just business—it was personal. Lucas intended to make Harry pay, to crush him both professionally and personally.

Meanwhile, Harry and his crew were busy finalising their plans. The warehouse was abuzz with activity, a hive of preparation as they readied themselves for the upcoming ambush. The atmosphere was tense, a stark contrast to the Vipers' headquarters.

Sloan was busy securing her gear, her mind racing as she tried to prepare for the inevitable conflict. She could hear snippets of conversation from the crew, but her focus was on the task at hand. She had promised herself she would do whatever it took to help Harry, to make up for the betrayal she felt from her father.

Suddenly, the door to the small room where Sloan was working opened, and Harry walked in, cigarette hanging from his lips. His presence was commanding, and Sloan felt a flutter in her chest, despite herself. He had a rugged charisma that was hard to ignore.

"You ready?" Harry's voice was gruff but not unkind.

Sloan nodded, trying to steady her nerves. "Yeah. I'm ready."

Harry glanced at her gear, his gaze lingering a moment longer than necessary. "Good. We'll need to move fast. They'll be expecting us."

As he walked over to her, Harry pulled out a strap and began fastening it around her thigh to secure the gun. His fingers brushed against her skin, sending a jolt of warmth through her. Sloan tried to ignore the sensations, focusing on the task at hand. But it was difficult when every touch seemed to amplify her awareness of him.

"You're doing well," Harry said, his voice low. "But remember, this is going to be intense. Stay sharp."

Sloan met his gaze, her eyes reflecting a mixture of resolve and uncertainty. "I know. I'll do my best."

Harry's expression softened for a moment, but he quickly masked it with his usual stern demeanor. "We need to move. Let's get this done."

As they prepared to leave, the weight of what lay ahead settled over them. The Vipers' ambush was imminent, and every moment was a step closer to a confrontation that would test them all.

Back at the Vipers' headquarters, Lucas was already several steps ahead. The diversions were being set up, and the stage was being prepared for the upcoming clash. Lucas's plan was in motion, and his men were ready for the final phase.

As Lucas reviewed the final details, he allowed himself a moment of satisfaction. The Vipers had been underestimated, and now they were ready to strike back with a vengeance. He would make sure that Harry and his crew understood the true meaning of crossing the Black Vipers.

With everything in place, Lucas prepared to execute the plan. The trap was set, and the game was about to reach its climax. The only question that remained was whether Harry would survive the coming storm or be swept away in the wake of Lucas's wrath.