The team was gathered in the dimly lit operations room, with maps and mission intel scattered across the table. Alex Keller, arms crossed, was already reviewing the latest updates on their next operation when Captain Price entered, followed by a woman in tactical gear. She had striking eyes that matched her sharp, no-nonsense demeanor. Her posture was straight, almost rigid, as if every movement had a purpose.

"Team, meet our newest team member," Price said with a rare grin, nodding toward the new recruit. "She’s a specialist in covert ops and has experience working in hostile territories. She’ll be with us for the duration of the mission."

Alex couldn’t help but notice the way she held herself—cool, collected, and completely focused. Her serious expression never wavered as she scanned the room, sizing up the team.

As her gaze briefly locked with his, Alex felt something unusual stir in his chest. It was just a moment, fleeting, but it was enough to make him second-guess himself. He'd met plenty of skilled operatives in his career, but there was something about her—her confidence, her precision, the way she carried herself—that made him feel like he was suddenly out of his element.

Alex cleared his throat, suddenly aware that his focus had shifted. He quickly refocused, but for the first time in a long while, his thoughts were no longer entirely on the mission.