Page 56 of Undercover Hearts

Jenna's heart rate spiked, but her expression remained curious. "My fitness tracker? I never take it off. It counts steps and monitors heart rate."

Kendall examined the device with suspicion. The surveillance equipment was disguised as a standard fitness watch, but close inspection might reveal its modifications.

"Unusual design," Kendall noted. "I haven't seen this model."

Jenna laughed lightly, the sound practiced to perfection. "Limited edition collaboration between the tech company and a women's health research group. Michelle got it for our six-month anniversary."

Michelle stepped closer, her hand settling at Jenna's waist with natural possessiveness. "The proceeds support women's fitness initiatives. I thought the cause aligned with Jenna's values."

The sentimental explanation softened Renee's expression. Even Kendall's suspicion wavered visibly.

"You'll need to leave it in your vehicle tonight," Kendall said, releasing Jenna's wrist. "The beach house maintains strict electronic security protocols."

They completed the exterior circuit, Jenna noting the heavy-duty padlocks on the side entrance—standard commercial grade that tactical teams could breach in under thirty seconds. The loading dock featured upgraded security cameras withoverlapping fields except for a three-meter blind spot at the southwest corner.

Renee invited them to her vehicle to review the evening's schedule. The SUV's interior smelled of leather and Kendall's distinctive sandalwood perfume.

"You'll both be assigned to separate teams tonight," Renee explained, displaying a personnel chart. "Michelle with warehouse inventory, Jenna with documentation."

The deliberate separation confirmed their earlier suspicions.

"The retreat participants arrive at four," Renee continued. "Security briefing at six, dinner at seven, then operational assignments."

The tablet flashed with an incoming message: "Verification results incomplete. Maintain observation."

Kendall dismissed the notification with speed, but not before Jenna registered its implications. Their background verification remained active, suspicion unresolved.

As they drove away minutes later, Jenna waited until they were safely out of view before speaking.

"The verification is still active," she said quietly. "And they're deliberately separating us tonight."

Michelle's fingers tightened on the steering wheel. "Expected. But the reconnaissance was successful: blind spot at southwest corner, shift change at 2200, third tactical unit confirmed."

"Renee's presence was unexpected," Jenna noted. "She rarely leaves headquarters."

"Additional security measures," Michelle agreed. "Kendall's suspicion has spread to the inner circle."

The dangers had increased substantially, yet the mission parameters remained unchanged—evidence gathering until tactical intervention at 2310 hours.

"The watch inspection was too close," Michelle said, concern evident beneath her professional tone.

"But it confirmed something valuable," Jenna replied. "They're specifically looking for surveillance equipment, not just general security screening."

Michelle nodded, making a sudden turn. "We need to update our operational security. Different pickup point, modified equipment."

"Where are we going?" Jenna asked.

"PWC headquarters," Michelle replied. "We're expected at the final briefing. And we need to demonstrate complete confidence in our cover."

"Walking directly into their scrutiny," Jenna observed. "Bold move."

A hint of their established connection flickered in Michelle's quick glance. "Bold but necessary. The operation proceeds as planned."

What remained unspoken was the increasing risk: Kendall's suspicion, the active verification, their deliberate separation during critical phases. The dangers were mounting, yet retreat would sacrifice months of investigation and justice for three young women.

Jenna straightened in her seat, resolution settling over her like armor.

Whatever personal complications existed between them, the mission remained clear: Tonight would end the PWC's criminal activities, one way or another.