“We observe first. We confirm Webb's movements. We identify who's protecting him and how.” Adrian turned back to face us. “Then we make a move that Harrow won't anticipate. That uses his expectations against him.”
“That could take days.”
“Better days than dead.” Adrian's expression was implacable. “You want my resources? You play this smart. You wait for the right moment instead of rushing in because grief is making you reckless.”
Adrian was right. And I knew it.
Cal's hand found mine under the table.
“Fine,” I said. “We wait for the right opening.”
“Good.” Adrian nodded to Dmitri. “Pull everything on Webb's security detail. Known associates. Communication patterns. I want to know who he talks to and when.”
“Already on it,” Dmitri said without looking up from his laptop.
“Luka, check underworld connections. See if Webb's buying protection from anyone outside Harrow's immediate network.”
Luka appeared in the doorway like he'd been summoned. “Done. He's got connections to a private security firm. Ex-military types. They provide discreet protection for professionals who need it.”
“Troy, identify Webb's likely routes and timing. Where he's most exposed.”
“The gala tonight,” Troy said. “Entry is through a public courtyard. Exit will be the same. Thirty-second window where he's vulnerable.”
“Perfect.” Adrian looked at Noah. “Coordinate with Ash. Keep the household calm. I don't want anyone outside this room knowing what we're planning.”
Noah nodded. “Understood.”
Adrian turned back to us. “You two will observe Webb tonight. From distance. No contact. No engagement. Just surveillance. Understand?”
“Yes,” Cal said.
“And if he makes a move? If something happens?”
“Then you improvise. But your primary objective is intelligence gathering, not confrontation.” Adrian's voice was hard. “Do I have your word on that?”
I met his gaze. “You have my word.”
“Cal?”
“You have it.”
“Then get out of my office and prepare properly.”
We spentthe afternoon doing exactly that. Cal pulled every piece of information about Webb he could access. I studied patterns. Identified weakness points. Built contingencies for scenarios that ranged from simple observation to active combat.
By evening, we had a plan. Not perfect. But functional.
The gala was being held at a converted courthouse that had been turned into event space. Appropriate. Lawyers and judges and court administrators celebrating themselves while the systems they operated continued destroying lives.
Cal and I positioned ourselves across the street. Different vantage points. Separate enough to not be obvious. Close enough to coordinate if needed.
Webb arrived at eight. Black car. Professional driver. Two security personnel who flanked him through the courtyard entrance. He looked nervous. Kept glancing around like he expected trouble.
Smart man. Trouble was definitely coming. Just not tonight.
“Target acquired,” Cal's voice in my earpiece. “Two escorts. Professional grade. They're scanning for threats.”
“I see them.” I tracked Webb's movement through the crowd. “He's more paranoid than his pattern suggested.”
