Page 36 of Undercover Hearts

"Actually, I managed executive communications," Jenna corrected smoothly. "Though at Michelle's level, that involved coordinating with IT security regularly. You develop a certain understanding of systems when you're the bridge between departments."

"Interesting. What systems did GreenTech use for secure communications? We're considering updates to our own protocols."

Another test. Jenna maintained her relaxed smile while calculating her response. "Primarily Oracle integrated with proprietary encryption—though I was more concerned with the human elements of security than the technical backends."

The tension held for three heartbeats before Mina nodded, apparently satisfied. "People remain the weakest link in any security system."

Across the room, Jenna caught Michelle's eye. The concern there was poorly masked, visible even from a distance. She gave an imperceptible nod to signal she had the situation under control.

"Speaking of people," Mina continued, her voice dropping, "Sienna mentioned you're being considered for the leadershipretreat next weekend. It would coincide perfectly with our shipment."

"That would be extraordinary," Jenna replied. "Though I assume Michelle would be included as well?"

Something flickered across Mina's expression—disappointment, perhaps. "Of course. You come as a package, after all."

Before Jenna could respond, Kendall approached, her movements carrying the deliberate casualness that screamed danger to Jenna's trained instincts.

"Mina, Sienna needs you for a moment," Kendall said, her gaze fixed on Jenna. "Something about the Cartagena scheduling."

As Mina walked away, Kendall remained, her scrutiny unwavering. "Enjoying yourself, Jenna?"

"Very much. Mina was just explaining PWC's international distribution network."

"Sometimes the details can be overwhelming for newcomers. Best to start with the basics before diving into complex operations."

The warning was clear: Mina had revealed too much. Jenna kept her expression pleasantly neutral. "Good advice. I've always been an eager student, though."

"So I've noticed." Kendall glanced meaningfully toward Michelle. "I'll leave you to rejoin your partner. She seems...concerned about your networking."

As Kendall walked away, Jenna exhaled slowly. The interaction had yielded critical intelligence—shipment timing, warehouse security protocols, and confirmation of their invitation to the leadership retreat—but had also increased Kendall's suspicions significantly.

She moved through the gathering, pausing for brief conversations before eventually making her way to Michelle's side.

"Productive conversation?" Michelle asked quietly, tension vibrating beneath the surface.

"Very." Jenna laced her fingers through Michelle's. "Midnight Saturday. Limited access protocols. And we're both invited to witness it all."

Michelle's fingers tightened around hers. "At considerable risk, it seems. Kendall's watching you like a hawk."

"Risk and reward. We got what we came for."

The look Michelle gave her carried equal parts admiration and frustration. But beneath it all, poorly concealed even to casual observers, was something more personal than professional concern.

Something that looked remarkably like jealousy.

Twenty minutes later, Jenna whispered, "Powder room," their earlier disagreement about risk-taking shelved in favor of operational necessity.

She moved through the hallway with confidence, bypassing the guest bathroom and continuing to what architectural logic suggested would be Sienna's office. The door was unlocked. After a quick glance to ensure she was unobserved, Jenna slipped inside.

The space was unmistakably Sienna's domain—elegant but practical, with a large desk positioned to command the view. Awards and political photos adorned the walls. Ignoring the computer that would leave digital traces, Jenna went straight for the physical documents.

Her heart pounded as she efficiently searched, finding success in the third drawer—a folder labeled "International Programs" containing shipping manifests. She activated her pendant's camera function, rapidly photographing each page.

The documents confirmed their suspicions while revealing something more alarming: the operation wasn’t limited to Phoenix Ridge. Identical shipments were scheduled for Seattle, San Diego, and Vancouver—an entire West Coast network running under the guise of women’s empowerment.

The sound of approaching voices froze her mid-motion.

"I need to check something in my office." Sienna's distinctive voice carried through the door.