Page 106 of Shadowed Hearts: Frost
Pride hits my chest first, immediate and warm. Then concern follows. Her skills are exceptional, but the risks of having her this deep in their systems...
"I've already mapped their guard patrol routes too," she continues, pulling up another overlay showing security positions in real-time. "They're super predictable—like, boringly predictable. Thirty-second gaps at these three points where coverage overlaps inefficiently."
My jaw tightens as I process tactical implications. Having Vanessa's digital access gives us advantage, but keeping her behind screens feels more controllable.
"So we have comprehensive digital access," Kade notes. "Next step is physical infiltration."
Jax steps forward, energy practically crackling off him. "We should put Reyes on point for this op. She already knows their system architecture inside and out, plus she's got that whole unassuming thing going for her."
Every muscle in my body tenses simultaneously. The thought of Vanessa entering that building, walking those corridors, exposed to potential threats—
"What? No way!" Vanessa's eyes widen as she waves her hands dismissively. "I'm definitely best behind a keyboard—that's like, my whole thing! I can guide someone through remotely, talk them through the technical stuff. That's what I'm good at, not all this cloak-and-dagger field work."
"Actually," Kade interrupts, calculating gaze moving between us, "Jax raises a valid point. The server room will have additional physical security measures that won't be accessible through remote infiltration. Having someone who understands the system architecture would provide significant tactical advantages."
I calculate fourteen scenarios in rapid succession, each ending with Vanessa potentially exposed to danger. None acceptable.
"She goes in with me."
No room for debate in my voice. Complete finality.
"I maintain perimeter security and overwatch while she accesses the server room. Two-person team, minimal operational footprint."
Vanessa turns to look up at me, surprise evident. "Wait, you actually want me in the field? Like, physically in the building?"
I meet her gaze directly. "You're the most qualified person to access that server room. I'll have your back the entire time."
The realization that I'm supporting her field involvement rather than blocking it registers in her expression. A small smile forms on her lips—pleased and slightly mischievous.
"Actually," Kade says, voice cutting through the moment with command authority, "Remy would be better suited for this infiltration."
My entire nervous system goes rigid.
"Remy has extensive experience with high-society cover operations," Kade continues, tone completely reasonable and utterly infuriating. "His social infiltration skills are purpose-built for events like this. More appropriate asset allocation."
"Ghost." My voice drops to sub-zero temperatures. "I can handle close protection and infiltration simultaneously."
"Not questioning your capabilities, Asher." Kade's tone carries the subtle edge of command decision. "Questioning optimal resource deployment. Saint handles infiltration. You handle overwatch. Play to strengths."
Every instinct I possess screams against this decision. The logical part recognizes the operational soundness. Remy is specifically trained for social manipulation and high-society infiltration. But the part focused on Vanessa's safety rebels completely.
"Remy can't provide adequate security coverage while maintaining social cover," I argue, grasping for tactical reasoning that masks my real objection. "Split focus compromises both infiltration and protection protocols."
"Which is why you'll be on overwatch," Kade responds smoothly. "Providing security coverage from optimal positioning."
The logic is airtight. I know it. The team knows it. And it makes me increasingly frustrated with my inability to present a counter-argument that doesn't reveal personal investment.
Jax leans back against the table, that irritating smirk spreading. "Wow, Frost is actually arguing with command decisions. That's like... unprecedented. What's next, you gonna tell us the sky isn't blue?"
"Mission parameters should prioritize—"
"Mission parameters," Kade interrupts with finality, "prioritize operational success. Remy handles infiltration. You provide overwatch. End of discussion."
The command tone hits like a physical barrier. I've never argued with direct orders before. Never questioned tactical assignments. Never prioritized anything above mission efficiency.
Why is her safety suddenly more important than operational protocol?
"Let me pull up personnel files," Cole interjects diplomatically, bringing new images to the display. "We need to identify all potential threats present at the gala."
