Crimson Loyalty

Chapter 3- The Undercover Transformation

Scrutinizing her reflection in front of her bathroom mirror, Elena took a deep sigh as she memorized every ounce of her being. The face staring back at her was vividly recognizable, yet it was about to undergo a drastic change. With sharp, intelligent eyes the colour of dark chocolate and long wavy black hair that framed her face and reached the mid of her back, Elena was a stunning beauty in her late twenties. As a testament to her Hispanic heritage, her olive skin that shun like the sun on a rainy day, made her stand out. Yet for this mission, blending in was key.

Taking in a long deep breath, she took a walk down memory lane. Growing up in a rough neighbourhood on the south side of Chicago, with her father and brother, Elena didn't have easy. The streets offered two choice; you either make a choice or a choice is made for you. Her father who was a police officer, was her hero until he was shot dead in the line of duty. The devastating tragedy fueled her desire to bring justice to the city he had served and loved fiercely by following in his footsteps. Anthony, Elena's older brother and 18 years of age as of then, looked after her after their dad's passing until his death a few years later. Her brother's death further bloomed her passion justice and to maintain law in the society.

This determination and strong willpower of hers, has risen her quickly through the ranks of the Chicago Police Department. She is well-known for her relentless pursuit of justice and her swift ability to think of her feet making it, no surprise that she had been chosen for the operation.

Untying her hair from the bun it was in, she begrudgingly reviewed the details of her newfound identity. She would be Maria Sanchez, a young girl from Miami who wanted a fresh start and felt Chicago to be the right place for that. To wrap-up her new appearance, she cut her hair into a sleek bob, dyed it a rich chestnut brown, a clear contrast from her natural black hair. She also settled for contact lenses to hide her real eye colour.

Carefully applying makeup to further alter her appearant, she gave herself a subtle yet noticable makeover. She hardly recognized herself when she was done. Maria Sanchez stared right back at her from the mirror, ready to take on the underworld. Her new wardrobe was a huge difference from her usual attire; gone were the leather jackets, t-shirts, practical jeans, replaced with dresses, skirts, low-cut tops, tight-fitting jeans, heels to make her look less obtuse and much feminine.

Working at one of the Rossi's family establishments- a bar known for its legitimate business facade yet illicit activities are held behind closed doors, she needed to look the part of a bartender. She had extensively studied the place, learning about its layout, regular key patrons and the key players. It was here, she would have to earn Nico's trust.

Just as she was about to step out of her home, in came a notification from her phone. It was a message from Marcus, "Promise to come back to me in one piece, never loose your guard and make sure to watch behind you. I'll keep in touch as much as I am allowed to."

On meeting Marcus for the first time, she concluded he was stoic due to the fact that he would only grunt or nod when asked a question. But along the line, she found out he was the sweetest person ever when he gets comfortable. Shooting him a vote of thanks, she set out for the task ahead.

Stepping into the bar for the first time, Elena, now Maria, felt the weight of her mission. With polished wooden surfaces and a long, sleek counter, the bar stood dimly lit. The bar was immersed with the vibrant awe of expensive cologne, dancing in the air with alcohol and mingling with the hum of conversations and the crisp clinking of glasses.

To quit being the center of attention, as she stood in the middle of the bar for minutes gazing around, she approached a burly man behind the counter. "How might I be to help to you?" He asked, eyeing skeptically.

Clearing her throat and smoothly transitioning into Maria, Elena lit a smile on her lips. "I am Maria Sanchez, I applied for the job of a bartender yesterday."

"Oh that's right," The man replied, his voice gruff. "We did speak over the phone."

"Yes, I am her. I am ready to start whenever you need me." She chuckled, bouncing on her feet.

The burly man grunted, handing her an apron. "Any questions?”

"Excuse me sir.....?"

"Tony. The name is Tony." He replied with an eye roll.

"Yes Tony," Elena noted, moving ahead to ask her question. "Aren't you going to interview me? See if I am qualified for the job?"

"You had better be good. We don't have time to babysit."

"Trust that I'd be so good." She muttered under her breath as she grabbed the apron.

Over the next few weeks, Elena worked hard to establish herself as a reliable employee. She quickly picked up the routine of mixing drinks with practiced ease and charming the regulars. Her sharp eyes and quick reflexes made her a natural behind the bar, and she kept her ears open, listening for any useful information.