"Five minutes out. Adlai is waiting for us." I reported, ending a call with Erik.

Murmurs of Rosaline's declaration of love muddled my brain, making it hard to remain focused. The last thing I needed was to be the dopey-eyed fool I wanted to be and mess up this operation.

Still, I couldn't help the small smile that escaped before forcing my usual scowl. I could think about it when I held Rosaline in my arms later.

"Good. Did Erik manage to give an update on Jasmine's ETA?" Xavier asked, fixing his wristwatch and ear comm.

While Xavier and Jasmine were dressed to socialize for the event, I was dressed as a security guard. Once we arrived, I would meet with Adlai first and check on his part of the mission. Just because he's willing to help doesn't mean that he couldn't have his own agenda.

"Something is apparently wrong with the frequency. She may have to meet us without it."

Xavier shook his head. "It's a vital piece tonight. We can always work around it, but it will all be easier for all of us if Erik can fix the gadget for Jasmine."

I nodded as I adjusted the suit I was forced into.

"And, Damon?" Xavier called out as the driver pulled over to the venue.

"Yes?" I replied absently.

"Make sure to wipe the lovestruck look on your face. I don't have the time to mock you about it, Asshole. But I'm happy for you."

Of course, my best friend knew. I wasn't angry about it though. I gave him a nod of acknowledgement before we got out of the car.

Xavier tapped his ear to let me know he was listening before going inside. I put in my earpiece, one that was visible and obvious to others that I was part of the security team. Following the directions Adlai gave me, I walked around to meet him in the back.

I found the man pacing at the door until he spotted me.

"Mr. Cohen," Agent Adlai acknowledged. "I'd say it's a pleasure, but I fear you're only going to bring more stress and anxiety."

I held back a snort, nodding and forcing myself to make conversation.

"Yes, but not many people would be willing to do this."

"Right, I just happen to be one of those people. It's not like I'm breaking a load of federal protocols and laws...Let's move on before I change my mind." Adlai gestured for me to follow him.

We walked through some halls before we entered the main security room. Adlai greeted some people passing by before dismissing one agent in a chair. Soon we were alone in the main security room.

"There are six entrances. The guests go through the main door, the staff use the door on the far west, while security goes through the back door in the east. That's where we came in. Important VIPS like Senator Wiseman will be using the side door, about forty feet away from our door."

Adlai continued going through the protocols, pointing out the best spots for my men to watch for anything suspicious.

"I was able to get you stationed inside the room. Your post will be on the side wall on the right." Adlai pointed to the area on a screen. "If you see anything strange, tell me through your comm. I'll be here overseeing everything on this end."

"And Benson?" I asked.

"Agent Benson is on a different assignment. He shouldn't be anywhere near the venue."

I nodded at his words. Just as I was about to leave, Adlai called out to me.

"Be careful, all right? You don't trust me, and I don't trust you, but we're both on the same side– hopefully. Prove to me that I'm doing the right thing."

I turned to look at the agent. I wasn't good at reading people like Xavier, but I saw the look of determination in his expression. He wanted to trust us and understood that this was something big.

Now we only had to confirm that Adlai was doing the right thing– even though he was breaking multiple laws that he had sworn to protect and uphold.

"Proof can only get us so far. No matter how many facts and evidence we hand some people, their own perceptions and bias won't let them change their ways. I hope you aren't one of those people."

With that, I left for my new post.

I passed among the guests chatting and drinking champagne. I gestured to some of the men I recognized to different parts of the room and building. I found Xavier chatting with some people, using his charm to keep their attention.

"Hey," Erik said through the comm. "I just fixed Jasmine's gadget and she'll be on her way soon. I also was able to crack the code on the YSA website. It was a form of linguistic programming using numerical–"

"Get to the point, Erik." I cut him off.

"Ouch, fine. I was able to identify keywords sent between both the owner of the website and the person they employed. A new set of people– eight of them– are posted on the website. Right now, it says they are on standby."

"Means they'll be making a move soon. Stay sharp, everyone." Xavier whispered before he went back to socializing.

The warning made me more alert, examining every face that passed by.

I started thinking of different strategies to get us out safely, when a familiar face came into view, red with anger.

"You. Where's your damn boss?" Campbell pointed at me, his wife trailing behind him with a bored expression on her face.

I internally rolled my eyes, hoping Xavier would save me the energy of having to talk to these two.

There were signs that Campbell wasn't taking the exposure to his crimes very well.

Xavier and Rosaline said his arrogance and greed would be his downfall. Seeing the small differences in his appearance was highly satisfying.

This man's world was crumbling at his feet, and I had a front row seat.

Campbell's suit had noticeable wrinkles, his tie slightly crooked. He tried to make up for it by wearing the mostly hideous diamond-encrusted watch with matching cufflinks. He kept patting his hair absently, making sure his fine hair was still in place.

As he stared at me impatiently, I remained relaxed with a bored expression.

"Hello, Mr. Campbell. You're close with the senator?"

Campbell looked ready to explode.

"Your boss ruined my business deal. Lorenzo won't talk to me because of whatever you have done. Now, where is he?" He sneered, getting into my face.

So, Lorenzo cut him loose, but didn't explain why. It showed just how insignificant Campbell was in the entire operation, regardless of having navy resources.

It was only a matter of time before Campbell was arrested. The only reason he wasn't in custody yet was because of the money and lawyers he had to keep the FBI off his back. Fortunately, we saved some more proof for the grand finale. It would be the nail in the coffin for him– no chance he would be able to leave a prison cell.

I took a bold step closer, glowering at Campbell. The move caused the man to stumble back. My "normal security guard" persona was gone– instead, Campbell was facing the vice president of Monroe Protective Services and the second-in-command of Project O.

"Let me be clear. Mr. Monroe is attending to other matters at this event– with people more important than you'll ever be in your sorry existence. Monroe Protective Services was never going to associate with the Diablos or you, no matter what powerful connections you had. You're the least of Mr. Monroe's worries. And after the allegations you are facing of sexual assault and harassment, it only confirmed our suspicions. Your greed and hunger for power caused your downfall, not us. Now, I advise you to walk away."

"You don't want to make an enemy out of me!" Campbell hissed.

"No. You don't want to make an enemy out of us. What would the government think when they find out that you sent weapon shipments to the Diablos and your products recently took out an apartment building? They wouldn't hesitate to bring you in, and no amount of lawyers or money will get you out," I smiled like a shark as the color drained from his face.

"H-how did you know that?" The fool stuttered. "No one knows about that except...Let's not be hasty. I have a lot of resources– "

"We know a lot of things, Campbell. You may run a company selling guns and bombs, but we carry a stronger arsenal. Now, I am done wasting my energy speaking to you. Walk away or I will drag you out." I turned to his wife– Rebecca– as well. "Same goes for you."

Rebecca's eye twitched but she said nothing. Campbell didn't hesitate and moved quickly, but not before giving me a hateful glare. Rebecca was following him when I got a glance at her screen. I quickly grabbed her wrist.

"Hey!" Rebecca snapped. "Unhand me or I'll charge you with harassment!"

I looked at her phone screen one more time before releasing her.

"This is a private event. I was making sure that you weren't taking any photos or videos. Enjoy your evening." I didn't apologize, and she noticed. She narrowed her eyes before huffing and stomping away.

"Erik, Rebecca has some code on her screen. I wasn't able to understand it." I said in our comm.

I was wearing two separate comms– one was a link directly to Adlai, and I had to press a button to communicate with him. The other, of course, was created by Erik.

"Copy. My team will look for any other intruders in the security system besides us. I'm going through the firewalls on her phone now," Erik responded with disdain.

Erik despised the woman, still unhappy that she messed with his systems to steal information only days ago.

"You handled him pretty well." Xavier piped up. I looked for him and found him with another politician.

"Next person who comes up to me? I'll just punch them in the face. It's my favorite type of social interaction." I grunted.

I spent the next half hour watching, updating Adlai frequently. Jasmine was still nowhere to be seen, but Xavier was doing fine on his own.

After a while, Adlai reported through.

"Wiseman is entering the building. I repeat, Wiseman is entering and will be on your right. He'll be giving a speech first." Adlai said.

"Thanks for the heads up." I responded, keeping my eye on the entrance.

Adlai was silent before he spoke again.

"Your mark is Wiseman. Why?"

I didn't respond as music began to play and an announcer came on stage, welcoming everyone. He was a young man who looked eager to impress the politicians and socialites at this event.

"It is with great pleasure that I present to you potential presidential candidate Senator Anthony Wiseman!"

The room cheered as Wiseman appeared, wearing a charming smile as he waved to the crowd.

"Watch closely, Adlai." Was the only response I gave him before focusing on the stage.

Wiseman laughed as he walked to the podium, continuing to wave.

"Thank you, thank you!" Wiseman spoke into the microphone. "Hello, New York! Thank you for welcoming me on such short notice. Before we start, I would like to give a special thanks to the staff and security team that are here to keep us safe, especially in times like this."

The crowd cheered again, and I watched our surroundings as Wiseman continued his speech. The hairs on my neck stood up at the immediate attention to the security team.

If Anthony Wiseman oversaw the Diablos, then I wouldn't be surprised if he knew about Lorenzo and our company's relationship. He could know that Xavier was here and MPS staff were part of the security. That quip also made me certain that we could not underestimate this man's knowledge and intelligence.

Wiseman made small jokes as he went through his political agenda, making different promises to the people. While he had charisma and exuded confidence, I saw the politician that manipulated the crowd to see his opinions and points of view as their own.

I'd dealt with plenty of manipulative bastards throughout the years. Even if the Organization didn't have suspicions that Anthony Wiseman oversaw a corruptive political organization, I would've sensed this man was off. I understood why Xavier kept an eye on him. His front didn't impress me, and nothing Wiseman could do would make him seem sincere in my eyes.

"Finally, I would like to address the ongoing rumors caused by cowards hiding under weak allegations against a group of people in the government. These threats against our democracy and the leaders the American people voted for will not be taken lightly. These people want to spread fear and uncertainty, but I will not stand for it. These people will be found and prosecuted to the full extent of the law. The FBI will have my full cooperation in this investigation." Wiseman said with certainty.

The senator gave one more smile before saying his thanks and walking off the stage.

"Interesting that Wiseman is slowly making his way into my direction," Xavier noted. "I'm heading your way, Damon."

I grunted my acknowledgement as I stayed in position. Of course, that was when Adlai decided to speak to me.

"We have a few police cars surrounding the building. Not sure if they're here to trade positions with other officers or not– will keep you posted."

"We may have a problem." I said as Xavier appeared in front of me. He sighed when I finished telling him.

"I see potential problems. I'm just wondering what Wiseman will do. Also spotted Lorenzo– he's on the other side of the room with some men, all unarmed. One positive is that he's not going to kill us right now. But I don't like that he's in your blind spot. His fixation is becoming more obvious." Xavier said as he took another sip.

"He sees me as entertainment. Why is he even here?" I replied, not even bothering to find him. If Xavier said he was in my blind spot at this post, it would be useless to look. Besides, it would amuse Lorenzo to no end if I tried and I wouldn't give him that satisfaction.

Wiseman was talking to a group of people before moving on, very intentionally coming in this direction.

"He's definitely trying to get to us. Stick to the plan. I'll talk, you keep watch. Drop the scowl though."

I only scowled harder when the senator finally approached us.

"Mr. Monroe, it's a pleasure to meet you." Anthony said and shook Xavier's hand.

I eyed the admirers around him before he easily dismissed them. "Sorry about that, people always want to have a conversation."

"Then it's an honor that you came to have a conversation with me." Xavier smiled warmly, but there was a bit of mischief and calculation in his eyes.

While it looked like they were friends being reacquainted with one another, I could see that they were noting each other's presence, sizing each other up.

"Yes, I have heard about you from Lorenzo Diablo. Says you were looking into a business relationship. I couldn't help but want to meet you in person" Wiseman said.

Xavier arched his brow. "I'm surprised that you're admitting your relationship with the man. Lorenzo does not have a good reputation and isn't very popular with the public."

"I agree that his methods and business are not ethical, which is why I don't openly go around stating this. But since you've been in circles with him, I feel we can share the same secret." Wiseman winked.

I could translate his words and tone: You tell anyone about my relationship with Lorenzo and I'll make sure this ruins your company as well.

"Ah, getting right to the blackmail are we, Senator?" Xavier spoke playfully.

"Oh, this is not blackmail, Mr. Monroe. I would let you know when I was. And if I did, it would be something more drastic and severe."

Xavier gave him a look of fake confusion.

"Then why was Mr. Diablo invited to your event?"

There was a brief smug twinkle in Wiseman's eye.

"He never comes to these events. But something about this one fascinated him. But I wouldn't worry about him too much, Mr. Monroe," He looked at me and gave me a nod. "You however should worry, Mr. Cohen."

I didn't respond to him. The senator didn't seem to mind my cold welcome, returning his attention to Xavier.

"Well, since you like to talk in riddles I may as well get to the point. Besides introducing yourself and finding me interesting, what was the reason for this conversation?" Xavier asked, done bullshitting around.

Wiseman gave him a smile.

"Ah, a man that goes straight to the point. It would be wonderful to work with you in the future. In fact, Monroe Protective Services may be very helpful for my investigation. You see, Lorenzo says that you may have a line on some information that could be useful to me. I am requesting if you can help me find the people responsible and retrieve the information."

"Why would we be helpful to you? Are you going off Lorenzo's word?" Xavier asked, his face business-professional, all signs of mischief from earlier gone.

"Lorenzo has always been good to me, and I have his loyalty. When he gave me his reasons as to your connection with some recent events and conveniently coming to my event...I have some interest as well. I just think this would be beneficial for both parties. Surely nothing bad will happen?"

I stared at Anthony Wiseman hard, my mind spinning to catch up with his words. While I would have to talk to Xavier, I thought that Wiseman didn't know how deeply involved we were.

He knew we had been watching– maybe suspected we gave away the information on Campbell– but does he know we have the files from Angelo? For all Lorenzo knew, Angelo was killed before he had a chance to share his list.

"I'm not sure I can help you with that. Monroe Protective Services is a protection security firm– protecting and retrieving. We don't traffic in information and advanced technology, Mr. Wiseman. Even I don't have the skills or experience for that," Xavier laughed like the thought was absurd. "I can recommend another firm if that's what you need."

Xavier's words made sense for those who didn't understand the dark side of our company, didn't understand the depth and reach we had.

Luckily, Wiseman seemed to accept this, but was relentless.

"Then you can give me any information you have, perhaps people we could speak to. I'm sure you have one person– man or woman– that could be useful to us. I can send it to the FBI and my people to solve this mystery. Then I'll leave you alone to enjoy the event and there will be no bad blood between us in the future."

I narrowed my eyes at the terminology he was using.

"Bad blood? Due to not giving you information? Senator Wiseman, it almost sounds like you are threatening me. It seems that you have more information to reveal than me." Xavier insinuates to the existence of the list once more, giving Wiseman a hard smile.

"I just wanted a friendly exchange before things got bad. I sense something coming and only time will tell who it will be bad for. It doesn't have to be anything bad for you or your company– you know how it can affect a man's family." Wiseman continued with a smile.

Anger built up as he made threats to my family and Rosaline. Give up information and Rosaline– like hell we would.

Xavier seemed to have felt the same. He still used his practiced smile, but his eyes would chill a normal man to the bone.

"Is this how you run things behind the scenes? Intimidation with a smile? I'm sure that tactic works on others, but not me. A typical politician. I have nothing to give you because we're not involved in whatever you are accusing us of. I hope you can excuse my statement, but I truly hope I don't have to see your ass behind the presidential desk."

I saw a quick twitch from Wiseman's left eye, the only sign of his agitation at the blatant disrespect. I doubted that he ever received it without there being immediate consequences.

"I'm sorry to hear that. I really had hoped a quick discussion would be enough to convince you to solve this little issue. I see I was wrong. At least I can say I tried to be amicable.

"Now if you could excuse me, I have other guests to attend to. It was interesting to talk to you Xavier Monroe. Mr. Cohen," Senator Wiseman nodded before leaving, showing a smile to the next guest.

"What now?" I asked, but Xavier stood blankly, thinking through everything we just learned.

"Pretty sure we made him angry. He just gave us a warning and now we're going to be facing the consequences. I'm just wondering how–"

"Boss," Erik broke through our comms. "The codes on the website changed and the users are now activated. It says 'raid'. I think we have–"

Erik was then cut out.

"Erik?" I called his name, only to hear silence.

"Damn it," Xavier began calling John, only to hear nothing. "Disconnected. They split us up."

Out of the corner of my eye, I caught Rebecca placing her phone on the table with satisfaction.

Erik will bring hell on her for what she just did.

"It's Campbell's wife. She cut us off." I cursed.

Xavier's eye moved towards the entrance and let out his own curse. "I know what move they made. I'm going to hold them off for a few moments. Talk to Adlai about what's happening and have him track down Erik. Go!"

Xavier pushed himself to the front entrance where I saw some agents being led by none other than Garrett Benson.

"Son of a bitch!" I pressed into the earpiece, hoping that I could still reach Adlai. "Adlai, do you copy?"

"I copy. Cohen, what the hell is going on? Benson–"

"I need you to listen carefully. We've been set up. I need you to go to the mansion and find Erik. He'll be able to help. Make sure my family is okay. Signing off– and do me a favor and don't get arrested as well?"

"Wait–"

I ripped out my earpiece, tossing it on the floor and made my way over to Benson and the agents. Benson was making a show as he put handcuffs on Xavier's wrists. A couple men came up to me and started reading me my rights. I listened as Benson didn't even bother whispering, a crowd gathering around us.

"I told you that I would get your ass in jail and today's the day. Xavier Monroe and Damon Cohen, you are under arrest for the murder of Angelo De Luca and for being an accessory to the murders of Ruben Anthony, Thomas Harvey, and Patrick Myers, as well as obstruction of justice."

Lorenzo and Wiseman watched as we were dragged away, Lorenzo raising his glass in salute.

Hatred built within me.

I would get him and I would get even.