Page 70 of Final Sins

A dusty sedan pulled up, and two figures emerged. An older woman with steel-gray hair pinned in a severe bun, and a fresh-faced young man who looked like he’d rather be anywhere else.

The woman’s voice cut through the air like a whip. “What’s going on here? We have no record of permitted work at this site.”

Jason stepped forward, all easy charm and disarming smile. “Ma’am, there must be some mistake. We filed all the necessary paperwork months ago. I’ve got a copy of the permits right here saying we’re good to go.”

Alex sidled up beside him, praying her racing pulse wasn’t visible. “That’s right. I have the copies, too, if you’d like to see them.”

The woman’s eyes narrowed, suspicion radiating off her in waves. “Let’s see them, then.”

As Alex fumbled with the clipboard, her mind raced. Were these really county employees, or Seven-Five operatives? The young man’s nervous fidgeting seemed genuine, but the woman’s steely gaze could hide any number of secrets.

After what felt like an eternity of scrutiny, the woman huffed. “Well, it seems to be in order. But I don’t appreciate these last-minute filings. And that support beam over there needs to be properly secured before you continue.”

Alex nearly sagged with relief. “Of course, ma’am. We’ll take care of it right away.”

As the county employees drove away, the tension in the air slowly dissipated. Alex let out a breath she didn’t realize she’d been holding.

Jason’s hand on her shoulder made her jump. “Nice work,” he murmured.

She managed a shaky smile. “You too. But let’s not do that again, okay?”

A chuckle rippled through the team, but Alex noticed everyone’s hands were still hovering near their weapons. One wrong move, one unexpected variable, and their entire operation could come crashing down around them.

37

A couple hours later,the preparations were in place. Both teams taking a break from the heat, pounding cold water.

Gravy stood motionless, his eyes fixed on the cracked screen of a defunct shooting gallery. The painted targets, faded and chipped, seemed to mock him with their eerie grins.

“Yo, Gravy, you still with us?” Worried, Alex called out to him.

He turned, forcing a laid-back grin that didn’t quite reach his eyes. “Yeah, just, like, vibing with the old man’s energy, you know?”

“Having second thoughts?”

Gravy shook his head, running a hand through his sun-bleached hair. “Nah, man. It’s just ... I keep picturing the old dude’s face when he sees me. Like, is he gonna be totally aggro that I didn’t ghost like he wanted? Or worse, you know, all disappointed and stuff. This whole thing started because he paid you to help me disappear, and you know, now here I am. Not ideal from his POV.”

Jason approached, his face etched with concern. “Remember, we’ve got your back. You don’t have to face this alone.”

“Thanks, bro,” Gravy nodded, still looking uneasy. “It’s just ... seeing him again? It’s like I’m back in boot camp, waiting for him to rip me a new one, you know?”

Alex frowned, her tone becoming more matter-of-fact. Gravy was a minor player here, but they needed him to keep it together. “Gravy, you need to focus. We can’t afford any distractions when we’re this close.”

Jason shot her a disapproving look. “Ease up, Mendoza. The guy’s about to confront his father. A little empathy wouldn’t hurt.”

“We don’t have time for a therapy session,” she retorted. “He needs to get his head in the game.”

“Whoa, chill, dudes,” Gravy interjected, holding up his hands. “No need to harsh the vibe. I’m good, seriously.”

As if echoing the tension, a sudden gust of wind sent a rusty swing set into motion, its chains groaning like restless ghosts.

Jason placed a hand on Gravy’s shoulder. “Just remember, you’re not that kid anymore. You’re a valuable member of this team.”

Alex sighed, softening slightly. “Jason’s right. Whatever happens with your father, we’ve got your back. But right now, we need you focused.”

Gravy nodded, straightening up. “Right on. Time to catch this gnarly wave, yeah?” He wandered off to look over Tai’s shoulder.

Jason and Alex stood in silence for a beat, the endless drone of cicadas filling the air between them.

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