Lines Blurred, Traces Found (Published Under Ukiyoto Publishing)

Chapter 18: Beyond The City Lights

Beyond The City Lights

Hyunjie settled into the taxi's worn seat, her fingers flying across her phone's keypad as she dialed Maya's number. The city lights blurred together outside her window, a kaleidoscope of color and sound. Champ's unexpected permission to return home had been a welcome surprise, and Hyunjie seized the opportunity, leaving the hideout without arousing suspicion.

As the taxi sped through the streets, Hyunjie's call went unanswered. Undeterred, she tried again. Finally, Maya's voice came through, and they exchanged brief, urgent words. Hyunjie's heart raced with anticipation.
 
As the taxi stopped at the corner of 5th and Main, Hyunjie hastily exited, her eyes scanning the crowded café entrance. She pushed open the door, but her steps faltered. Through the parking lot's dim lighting, she spotted Maya, her expression tense. Beside her stood Inspector Eros, his rugged features illuminated by the streetlights.

Hyunjie's brow furrowed, confusion and concern swirling. Her gaze lingered on Eros' hand, casually resting on Maya's shoulder. A fleeting spark ignited within her, but she swiftly suppressed it. "Ridiculous," she whispered, shaking off the unwelcome sensation.

As she stepped forward, Maya's eyes met hers. "Raven!" Maya exclaimed, her voice warm with relief.

Eros' head swiveled, following Maya's gaze. His piercing eyes locked onto Hyunjie, a hint of surprise flickering across his face. "Hyunjie..."

***

CID Headquarters

Neil's agile fingers swiftly typed out the decryption code, and the encrypted message flashed onto his screen like a beacon of urgency. His eyes widened significantly as he rapidly scanned the contents, digesting the vital information.

"Inspector, we haven't tracked anything else on Maya Anderson's device," Neil announced, his voice tinged with a hint of excitement. "But there's one intriguing location flagged on her digital footprint—a place she frequently visits." He paused for emphasis. "The old café on 5th and Main. It's our best lead yet."

Eros swiveled his chair, his piercing gaze sweeping across the room, locking onto each team member. "Is Maya Anderson at the café right now?" he inquired, his voice tinged with anticipation.

Neil's fingers danced across his keyboard, his eyes fixed on the screen. "Wait, I'm trying to access her location now," he muttered, his brow furrowed in concentration. "We're not sure if the device she's using is still active. The signal's weak, and we can't pinpoint her exact whereabouts."

Neil's intense focus on his computer screen finally yielded results. He leaned back in his chair, a mixture of relief and concern etched on his face. "Got it! Ms. Anderson is indeed at the café, but her presence there raises more questions than answers. Why would she risk being seen in a public place? It's likely she's accompanied by Champ's men."

Eros swiftly stood up, his chair scraping against the floor. He grabbed his jacket, draped over the chairback, and slid it on with practiced ease. "You all stay here for now. I'll head to the café and attempt to discreetly establish contact with her."

Brenth's eyes widened in surprise, his brow furrowed. "Are you sure, Inspector? It's risky going solo."

Eros's determined gaze met Brenth's. "I'll keep my distance, observe, and await the perfect moment to approach. Call me when you're in position. If things escalate, be ready to extract me."

With a resolute nod, Eros turned and exited the room, leaving his companions exchanging worried glances. Brenth, Steve, Jace, and Neil watched him disappear into the hallway, their eyes filled with concern for his safety.