Page 55 of Undercover Hearts

The coastal highway curved alongside Phoenix Ridge's industrial port district, warehouses and shipping containers creating a metallic landscape against the Pacific's blue expanse. Jenna sat in the passenger seat as Michelle navigated the access road leading to the main shipping facilities.

"Sienna mentioned several possible venues for next month's fundraiser," Jenna said, voice pitched for potential surveillance. "The harbor view might create the perfect backdrop for potential donors."

Michelle nodded, checking her phone while actually mapping tactical positions. "The event coordinator suggested buildings sixteen through eighteen have renovated spaces for corporate events."

The pretense gave them legitimate reason to circle the area where tonight's operation would unfold. Jenna noted securitycamera positions, guard rotations, and access restrictions, cataloging details missing from satellite imagery.

Warehouse 17—the PWC's rented facility—sat in the center of a row of nearly identical structures, distinguished only by a freshly painted blue door. Two security guards patrolled the perimeter, their pattern suggesting increased vigilance.

"There's our contact," Michelle murmured as a woman in a port authority uniform approached.

Jenna recognized Detective Cassidy Hendricks, undercover as port security, providing crucial inside access for tonight's operation.

"Ladies, this area is restricted," Cassidy called officially. "Do you have clearance?"

"We're scouting event spaces for Phoenix Women's Collective," Michelle explained, presenting their credentials. "Sienna Castillo suggested the harbor view properties."

Cassidy examined their badges. "PWC has access to Warehouse 17 only. Adjacent areas are off-limits without additional clearance."

"Of course," Jenna replied with apologetic charm. "We're actually interested in the harbormaster's building. Could you direct us?"

The interaction provided cover for Cassidy to lean closer. "Shift change at 2200 hours. Southeast corner has blind spot. Third unit confirmed in position," she murmured while pointing toward the harbor office.

They had just started to pull away when a black SUV stopped directly in their path. Kendall Buchanan emerged, her expression coolly assessing.

"Michelle, Jenna. Interesting coincidence."

"Kendall," Michelle replied smoothly. "Sienna mentioned harbor venues for the spring fundraiser. We thought we'd get a head start."

"Without clearance to the secure areas?" Kendall's eyes narrowed slightly.

Jenna leaned forward, deliberately drawing attention. "My fault entirely. I saw photos of sunset events here and got excited about the possibilities. I didn't realize we needed special permission beyond our PWC credentials."

The strategic admission—appearing as enthusiastic overstepping rather than suspicious activity—earned a slight relaxation in Kendall's posture.

From the SUV, Renee emerged, her presence unexpected. As Kendall's assistant, she rarely left headquarters.

"Everything all right?" she called, approaching with a tablet.

"Our newest members are taking initiative," Kendall replied, the words carrying subtle warning.

Renee smiled without warmth. "Perfect timing. I was updating the manifest for tonight's delivery. Since you're here, you could help verify the staging area."

The invitation represented both opportunity and danger. Jenna exchanged a quick glance with Michelle.

"Happy to help," Michelle replied, parking their car.

Renee led them along Warehouse 17's exterior, pointing out loading zones while referencing the evening's schedule. Jenna absorbed the operational details while maintaining appropriate interest.

"The educational materials arrive at the beach house dock first," Renee explained, "then transport here for processing. Your positions will be assigned at tonight's briefing."

As they walked, Jenna mapped escape routes, camera blind spots, and potential tactical team positions. The alley between Warehouses 16 and 17 offered particular strategic value—unmonitored by cameras with direct access to the loading bay.

"The shipment has significant cultural value," Kendall commented, observing their reactions. "South American educational initiatives supporting women's literacy."

"Sienna mentioned the international partnerships," Michelle said smoothly. "Expanding PWC's impact beyond national borders is admirable."

Kendall suddenly grasped Jenna's wrist, fingers pressing against the modified watch. "What's this?"