Lucas nodded, satisfied. “Then I say we hit all locations at once—zero chance for warnings to spread.”
Shannon glanced toward Colin. “The safety of these kids is a priority. Do we have safe locations ready?”
“Joshua’s helped coordinate shelters and secure placements,” Colin replied. “Sarah Mitchell’s team will handle security and transportation. We’re ready.”
Vivian’s expression warmed slightly. “Excellent. Once we have these people in custody, I’ll handle the indictments. Moreno’s intel, coupled with any evidence seized during these raids, will ensure solid convictions.”
Lucas glanced around the table. “We all know Moreno’s cooperation doesn’t erase his past. But he’s giving us the chance to stop this operation cold. Let’s not waste it.”
Colin leaned forward, hands clasped firmly. “Then let’s finalize this timeline. We move decisively, we protect these kids, and we make Moreno’s cooperation count.”
Around the table, heads nodded in agreement.
“Now,” Colin said, looking around the room, “We need to discuss prosecutorial jurisdiction.” Shannon Nash leaned forward slightly, eyes moving carefully between federal and local representatives. The tension was subtle but unmistakable.
Vivian spoke first, measured and deliberate. “Elias Moreno’s cooperation is invaluable—but this operation is extensive. Human trafficking, particularly involving minors, clearly places this within federal jurisdiction.”
Lucas gave a slight dip of his chin, reinforcing Vivian’s point. “Our priority is dismantling the entire trafficking network, especially any interstate or international links. Moreno’s intel is already proving actionable. But our investigations must move fast and without confusion.”
Colin held their gaze, steady. “I understand federal primacy, but there are significant local crimes—kidnapping, exploitation, assault. Local offenders, local victims. The community expects my office to hold them accountable.”
Vivian considered this, then shook her head. “Joint jurisdiction gets tricky. We’ve made it work before—but only when roles are crystal clear.”
Shannon shifted slightly. “Local law enforcement is fully prepared to support FBI operations. But prosecution decisions directly impact our community. Colin’s involvementmatters.”
Lucas exchanged a glance with Vivian, a brief unspoken communication passing between them. Vivian turned back to Colin, decision made.
“A joint prosecution, then,” she proposed firmly. “Federal charges for the core trafficking ring, with your office prosecuting local offenses. Separate charges, but fully cooperative investigations and evidence sharing.”
Colin nodded slowly, satisfied. “Agreed. And we coordinate on victim protection as well—Joshua and Sarah have already started preparations.”
Vivian’s expression relaxed slightly. “Then let’s formalize this clearly from the start. Federal lead, local partnership. One unified approach.”
Lucas leaned forward, extending his hand toward Colin. “It’s a deal. Let’s get these bastards!”
Colin shook Lucas’s hand, tension easing from his shoulders. “Damn right.”
He pulledinto the driveway as twilight settled gently over their home, casting shadows across the porch where Joshua waited, leaning against the railing. The soft glow from inside the house spilled through the open doorway, a silent invitation that Colin was happy to accept.
“You’re early,” Joshua said, stepping forward as Colin climbed from the car.
“Made you a promise, didn’t I?” Colin murmured, reaching for Joshua’s hand. “Home before dark.”
Joshua squeezed his fingers, his eyes searching Colin’s face. “You look worn out.”
“Long day.” Colin drew Joshua closer, breathing in his familiar warmth. “I’ll tell you everything inside.”
Joshua led him indoors, the quiet embrace of their home easing the tension in Colin’s shoulders. The scent of freshly brewed coffee lingered in the air, mingling with a faintly sweet aroma.
“Made blueberry pie,” Joshua confirmed, as if reading his thoughts. “Anxiety baking.”
Colin laughed softly, relaxing as Joshua pushed him gently onto the sofa. “God, that sounds wonderful,” he replied, settling into the cushions.
“Let me get you a piece.”
“Beforedinner?”
“Anxiety eating!”
