If you only knew...

47.The ascension

Xavier's POV

As the clock approaches seven, we take one last look at the photos of our targets before starting the drive to the Wynn Casino.

"Hey, Nate, do you mind driving?" I ask, my voice carrying a hint of pleading.

He flashes a playful grin. "Alright, but you're on driving duty when we head back!"

"Deal!" I nod enthusiastically, a grin spreading across my face.

In the front seat, Clara and Nate are already a sight to behold, dressed to impress in their elegant outfits. They exude an air of confidence, effortlessly crafting the perfect facade for mingling in public, while we linger in the shadows, tucked away behind the sleek, black car windows. Dressed in dark attires, the three of us fade into the evening gloom.

I pull my cap low, hoping to shield my face from the curious glances, while Ana and Lisa, radiating self-assurance, keep their meticulously tousled hair undisturbed.

Ana bursts into laughter as she playfully yanks my cap down over my face, teasing me just enough to drive me a little crazy.

"Ana, please stop!" I implore, my voice filled with a mix of frustration and unease.

"I finally get to see you a little angry!" she chuckles.

In that moment, I realize this is her way of coping with the stress of our impending dangerous mission. I take a deep breath, trying to suppress my irritation and embrace her joy, even amidst the anxiety we all feel.

"But don't hide that gorgeous face from me; I want to savor it a little longer," she whispers softly, her words solely intended for my ears.

I let out a weary sigh. "Not this again..."

"Sorry, but you make it really difficult to work with!" she quips, her playful grin lighting up her features.

"Honestly, it's not even half as challenging as trying to work with you, Ana," I whisper, hoping she catches the hint and finally puts an end to her antics.

..........................................

As we pull up in front of the glimmering Wynn Casino, excitement buzzes in the air, and it's time to split and gather information.

"Alright, team! Clara and I will head inside," Nate announces, his voice steady and confident. "Stay sharp and keep your earpieces on—listen for our updates!" A mischievous grin spreads across his face as he adds, "I can't wait to spend our company's cash! Imagine the joy of gambling with the elite tonight!"

"Just remember, Nate, don't let the thrill of it pull you in too deep," I tease, a grin spreading across my face. "Enjoy yourself, but keep your eyes on the targets. We need you to track on their motions so we can slip into those private meeting rooms when they are away and set up the audio recording devices."

"Got it! Stay safe out there!" he replies, flashing a wave as they both head into the bustling casino.

Ana scans the grand facade of the building, her brow furrowing in thought. "So, what's our plan to get in?" she asks, her curiosity piqued.

"Let's circle the building; we have to get a peek at where the exhaust duct might be hidden," I say, my voice steady as I step deeper into the shadows. I can feel their presence close behind me, ready to venture into the unknown together.

Do you really think we can find it at the ground level?" Lisa inquires, her curiosity piqued.

"Not a chance," my reply comes with a wry smile. "Looks like we'll have to do some climbing to reach it." I respond, my voice resonating with certainty. "Ana has always had a passion for climbing," I tease gently, noticing the flicker of anxiety in my partner's eyes.