Faced with his commander's question, Jason's response was naturally not one of retreat. With thorough preparation, he was confident in springing the trap and capturing Lasso alive. Although the mission had been described as a long-term operation, neither Jason nor his SEAL Team B members wanted to be stuck in Mexico indefinitely.
Soldiers were accustomed to enduring months in desolate deserts or war-torn regions under constant rocket and IED threats. They could even find ways to make light of those grueling conditions. But this was Mexico—essentially the U.S.'s backyard. Just beyond the repurposed factory serving as their base was a bustling world full of nightlife, neon lights, and Latin beauties flaunting their allure on the streets.
The fact that none of the SEALs had yet snuck out to enjoy themselves at night was a testament to Jason's leadership and the discipline instilled by his second-in-command, Ray Perry. Still, if the mission dragged on for months, even Jason might find it hard to resist the temptation to step out for a breather.
The problem was that the outside world wasn't safe. Doza's informants were watching their every move. Any scandal or mishap, while manageable thanks to well-honed response protocols, could still tarnish their reputation and force an embarrassing recall.
To prevent enemy surveillance from noticing patterns, Colonel Martinez had, from the start, instructed his soldiers to use various vehicles for random trips in and out of the base. Though simple, this method was effective and continued after the SEALs arrived.
Two more days passed, marking a full week since the last operation. The team was growing restless. Even Mandy Ellis and Jack began to doubt their analysis. Then, finally, news came from Rita Alfaro:
"Lasso has taken the bait. Tonight, 10:30 PM, at the Rosia Nightclub."
Two hours later, the team gathered in the operations center.
Rita, freshly returned from the field, appeared as composed as ever. After briefly conferring with Mandy and Jack, she stood in front of the main screen.
"Lasso is back in Mexico City. As per usual, he called Carla Reyes to arrange for an escort tonight."
"Let's see this lucky girl," Ray Perry said, shifting his attention to the screen with a smirk.
When the image of a stunning woman appeared, complete with angelic features, an hourglass figure, and long, wavy hair, whistles of approval erupted from the team.
Understanding that his men were simply blowing off steam, Jason let it slide, motioning for Mandy to continue.
"Sophia Núñez. An aspiring actress who's never managed to make it big. She was the runner-up in a national beauty pageant."
"You're sending a civilian as an undercover operative?" Ray asked, surprised. He had expected a professional femme fatale straight out of a spy movie.
Rita shook her head. "She's not undercover. Lasso specifically requested someone he's met before, so it has to be her. We can't risk substituting someone else and raising suspicion. Sophia is scheduled to meet Lasso tonight at Rosia Nightclub."
"So, what's the plan? Intercept them on the way or follow them back to his place?" Sonny asked.
"Intercepting him mid-route would alarm Doza. We'll follow them instead," Martinez chimed in. He had grown close to the SEALs, now viewing them as trusted comrades.
"Alright, let's hear the plan," Clay Spencer, the youngest team member, urged impatiently.
"The plan is straightforward," Jack began. "Lasso typically takes his escorts to a temporary residence. We'll track Sophia's phone. CISEN will maintain 24-hour surveillance. If he meets Doza before leaving Mexico City, we'll strike."
Jack poured himself a glass of water, stepping aside. His explanation, though solid, left the SEALs feeling underwhelmed. They had been eager for action, only to be presented with a mundane tracking mission.
"So, we're just babysitting? A drone could handle that," Jason quipped, feigning disinterest to match his team's mood.
"Not quite," Mandy interjected. "Lasso is a seasoned operator. We need confirmation that it's him meeting Sophia at the nightclub and not a decoy. Tracking only starts after visual confirmation."
"Also, drones are out," Blackburn added. "Using them in the city center requires official clearance, which would tip off any moles in the local government."
"So, you want eyes inside the nightclub, with the rest of us providing external support?" Ray asked, skeptical. "That doesn't sound like our forte."
"I doubt we'd blend in well there," Sonny scoffed. "A strip club, maybe, but a high-end nightclub? Not my scene."
Rita nodded, acknowledging their concerns. "Rosia Nightclub is an upscale venue catering to European and American elites. Your presence would indeed be conspicuous."
Mandy's gaze shifted to Jason. "But a couple enjoying a night out? That wouldn't draw much attention."
Jason shifted uncomfortably, expecting Mandy to suggest they pose as the couple. Instead, her next words nearly made him choke.
"Jack, you have a date tonight. Should we pretend it's your honeymoon or celebrate an anniversary?" Mandy asked, her eyes sparkling with mischief.
"Pfft!"
"Whoa!"
"Congrats, Jack!"
"Best show ever!"
The room erupted in laughter and whistles as Jack sprayed water everywhere, staring at Mandy in disbelief. She wasn't playing by any rules he recognized.
"Alright, everyone. Get some rest. Tonight will be long. Be ready," Blackburn ordered, clapping his hands to disperse the group.
Jack found himself reluctantly donning a sharp suit. A special foundation darkened and roughened his skin. A false mustache completed his transformation into a handsome middle-aged man.
He struck a few poses in the mirror, snapping his fingers in mock satisfaction. The door to the changing room opened, revealing Mandy and Rita, both dressed to impress.
Mandy wore a deep green silk evening gown with a daring slit that revealed her long legs. Despite her lithe figure lacking certain assets, the outfit highlighted her elegance. Rita, by contrast, looked more subdued, her darker complexion and older features blending into the background.
Rita would enter the nightclub alongside other CISEN agents as backup. But when Jack emerged into the operations center with both women on his arms, the SEALs couldn't resist whistling again, part admiration, part teasing.
"Show some respect, gentlemen," Blackburn coughed, refocusing attention on the mission briefing.
Rita began, "Rosia Nightclub is the hottest spot in town. Two floors, over 2,000 patrons nightly. There are six entrances, including staff and VIP access."
"We'll monitor VIP and staff entrances while CISEN handles the public ones. Bravo Team will split between two unmarked civilian vehicles for external surveillance," Jason said, tracing their routes on the map.
Rita added, "The nightclub is owned by the Doza Group, so security is tight. Metal detectors and guards are standard. If anything goes wrong, you'll have to think on your feet."
"Risky," Jason remarked. "No weapons, no comms. Maybe these two ladies could use a more experienced bodyguard."
Jason's remark earned him a knowing glance from Mandy. Jack ignored the banter, steering the conversation back to the mission. "Surveillance is straightforward. The real challenge will be tailing Lasso and Sophia through Mexico City's narrow, congested streets."
With the briefing concluded, Jack muttered under his breath, "I'm definitely billing overtime for this." He had no intention of entertaining any soap opera-worthy drama between Jason and Mandy.
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