Page 65 of Rogue’s Reckoning

"We hit their business," I suggest, my voice low and dangerous. "Send a message that we're not afraid to take the fight to them."

According to the intel that our brother, Venom uncovered, the Shadow Hawks own a chain of hotels. Three in total, all of which are currently in the stages of being set up ready for their grand opening next month. The fuckers are going to lose everything.

Ghost nods approvingly. "Good. Rogue, you'll go. Take Hades, Tempest, Savage, and Sniper. Scout the location, plan the hit."

As the meeting continues, we hash out plans to protect our remaining businesses and gather intel on the Hawks' movements. But even as I contribute to the discussion, part of my mind remains focused on Willow and Wren.

When the meeting finally adjourns, I pull Ghost aside. "Brother, I need a favor."

Ghost raises an eyebrow. "What is it?"

"I need you to keep an eye on Willow and Wren while I'm gone," I say, my voice low. "Make sure they're safe, comfortable. Wren... she asked me to play with her later. Could you maybe spend some time with her? I don't want her to feel scared or lonely."

Understanding dawns in Ghost's eyes. He knows how much this means to me. "Of course, brother. I'll look after them like they're my own."

I clap him on the shoulder, grateful beyond words. "Thank you."

As I head out to prepare for the scouting mission, I can't shake the feeling that everything is about to change. The war with the Shadow Hawks, Willow and Wren being here at the clubhouse... it all feels like a turning point.

I just hope I'm strong enough to protect everyone I love.

The night isdark and quiet as we approach the Shadow Hawks' newest hotel property. It's still under construction, scaffolding and tarps covering much of the exterior. Perfect for our purposes.

"Alright," I whisper to the brothers. "Remember the plan. We go in fast and quiet, plant the charges, then get the fuck out. No unnecessary risks."

They nod grimly, their faces set with determination. We've all been itching for payback since the Hawks torched Sultry Saint's.

We move swiftly through the shadows, avoiding the few security cameras set up around the perimeter. Tempest makes quick work of the lock on a side door, and we slip inside.

The interior is a maze of half-finished walls and exposed wiring. We split up, each heading to our designated areas to plant explosives. As I'm setting a detonator in what will eventually be the hotel's main restaurant, I hear a noise.

Freezing, I strain my ears. There it is again—footsteps, coming closer.

"Fuck," I mutter under my breath. This was supposed to be a quick in-and-out job. No confrontations.

I duck behind a stack of drywall just as two men round the corner. Even in the dim light, I recognize them as Shadow Hawks members.

"I'm telling you, I heard something," one of them is saying.

"Probably just rats," the other replies dismissively. "This place is crawling with 'em."

They're getting closer. I hold my breath, my hand inching toward the gun at my waist. I don't want to use it—gunshots would draw too much attention—but I will if I have to.

Just then, there's a crash from somewhere else in the building. The Hawks' heads whip around toward the sound.

"What the fuck was that?" the first one says, already moving toward the noise.

I silently thank whichever of my brothers created that distraction. As soon as the Hawks are out of sight, I finish planting the explosive and make my way toward our exit point.

I'm almost there when I hear shouting. "Intruders! Sound the alarm!"

"Shit," I curse, breaking into a run. I round a corner and nearly collide with Hades.

"Time to go, brother," he says urgently.

We sprint for the exit, the sound of pursuit close behind us. As we burst out into the night air, I hear the crack of gunfire.

Pain explodes in my left arm as a bullet grazes me. I stumble but keep running, adrenaline pushing me forward.

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