The night was cool, with a gentle breeze that carried the scent of damp earth. They arrived at the park under the cover of darkness, the dim glow of streetlights casting long shadows across the empty playground. Mia's heart pounded as they pulled up to the designated side street, her hands clenching and unclenching in her lap. Andrew, sitting beside her in the car, kept his eyes fixed on the entrance to the park, his jaw tight with focus.
"Stay sharp," Matt's voice crackled through the earpiece, calm and steady as always. "We'll be in and out. Ramirez will meet us at the bench near the oak tree. Andrew, Mia, you're our lookout."
Mia nodded, even though Matt couldn't see her. She glanced at Andrew, who gave her a reassuring nod. His presence was comforting, a steady anchor amidst the swirling anxiety in her chest. She took a deep breath, trying to steady her nerves.
"Got it, Matt. We're ready," Andrew responded, his voice level.
