The night had dragged on, tense and uncertain, but now the morning sun bathed the town in a gentle, golden glow. After the close encounter with Harlow last night, everyone was completely drained - physically, emotionally, and mentally. They had successfully avoided a catastrophe, for the time being, but the task was not yet complete. Although Liam, Jordan, and Rachel successfully returned from Harlow's estate, they were unable to bring back his whole family. Some stayed faithful to Harlow, while some were too scared to go. The victory was tenuous at most. Father Michael convened one last gathering at the church before everyone went their separate ways. The room was a mix of relief and anxiety, with the understanding that this was not yet finished. Father Michael started by expressing his gratitude to everyone in the room for their courage. He looked at every person - Liam, Jordan, Lindy, Rachel, Principal Dawson, and Elena, who was forgiven for her role as a spy for Harlow. "W

Liam’s POV The scheme was underway, yet the burden of it weighed heavily on my heart. If we handle this correctly, we’ll ultimately reveal the serpent in our midst. If we messed it up... then Harlow would be two steps ahead, and we’d be heading right into a trap. I was seated in the poorly illuminated rear room of a convenience store owned by Jordan's relative. It was one of our secure places, a neutral zone where no eyes or ears could find us. Lindy, Jordan, Elena, and several others assembled at a table strewn with maps, notes, and disposable phones. “We’re set,” Jordan remarked, stretching his shoulders. “Harlow's team will learn about the 'money laundering' site by dawn.” Lindy remained quiet, with her arms folded. She wasn't fond of this, and I understood why. The concept of employing bait to attract the spy was risky. It depended on the traitor falling for the trap, and if they were shrewd enough, they could use it against us. Elena coughed lightly. "Are we certain