The shadow landed with a soft thud, almost imperceptible, but its presence shifted the energy in the alley instantly. Maylen’s pulse hammered in her chest, her senses on full alert. The flash drive glinted under the weak streetlamp, held tightly in the hand of the first intruder—the one she had recognized but never expected to see here.
Lanry moved instinctively, placing himself in front of her, eyes scanning every corner, every shadow. “Stay behind me,” he growled, voice low and dangerous. “Do not move.”
Aiden’s calm presence was at her side, but even he didn’t step forward. He knew this was a delicate dance; the slightest misstep could trigger chaos. “Wait for my signal,” he murmured, hand hovering near his jacket where he had tools and devices ready.
The descending figure landed sile
