Kiss My Revenge The Heiress Strikes Back

Chapter 414

Meanwhile, across town-

Elian Ashcroft and ShadowFox sat across from each other in a stylish café, steaming mugs of black coffee in hand, the aroma of roasted beans swirling through the air.

"So, Mr. Ashcroft, do you think they'll pull off the mission perfectly this time?" ShadowFox asked with a sly grin, stirring his coffee absentmindedly.

Elian's lips curled into a cold, almost amused smirk. They hadn't told him a thing about the mission-just asked if he thought their team could handle it. It was a test, probably fishing for intel about Miranda Lancaster's current status.

Elian arched an eyebrow. "Isn't that your department's business? You'd know better than I would, wouldn't you?"

ShadowFox just shrugged, noncommittal.

"Well, what's your guess, Mr. Ashcroft? Think anyone in that group's got what it takes to be a leader?"

That actually piqued Elian's interest. He looked up, eyes sharp.

ShadowFox chuckled, continuing, "These folks, ever since we recruited them, mostly go solo. Even on group assignments, real teamwork is rare. Honestly, we don't usually dare send them on the big jobs."

He leaned in, lowering his voice. "They're all too stubborn, too independent. Everyone's got their own way. So we just toss them the mission and let them handle it however they want-as long as it gets done."

like

ShadowFox winced.

"Except for

else had said that, he'd have called it picking a fight. These weren't just anybody-they were the department's top-dollar talent,

who could strong-arm the most unruly factions in the entire military? Hard to

the best don't need a team. Having to drag others along just slows you down." He let a small, knowing smile slip. "I'm talking

his head get turned by a pretty face? Sure, Miranda was talented, but it's not like she

"Your mission's got something to do with Crow's Eye,

widen just a little. Their operations were always strictly confidential. Even today, inviting Elian over for a "friendly observation," they'd kept the actual mission details sealed

"If you're dealing with an organized crime syndicate, especially one with possible enhanced assets, you'd better plan your moves carefully. Otherwise, your

Ket

invited you here today hoping for your insight, Mr. Ashcroft. From your perspective-how do we

cool, almost detached. "Things go sideways because

tactical mind to

style. They only trust

vef

well-oiled weapon, then you need someone who can wield that weapon-someone who commands loyalty, respect, and even