“Wedon’thave time,” Sydney said. “I feel like my back’s against the wall. Did you see that poem from the terrorists?”
With a reassuring smile, Caroline said, “You’re right. Let’s get you set up.”
After Sydney removed her secondary rifle from its case and staged spare magazines full of ammo, Caroline said, “Here comes the general public.”
Sydney joined her sister at the platform’s edge. Together, they watched as a sea of civilians filtered their way inside.
“When do the Cadets and Mids enter the stadium?” Sydney asked.
“The March On starts at noon,” Caroline explained.
Soon, the place would be filled with thousands of happy innocents getting ready to cheer on their football team.
Sydney had been in countless missions over the past nine years, but this one was different. Never before did she have such a high probability of collateral damage. The pit in her stomach grew larger as she cast her eyes over the vast stadium.
Where are you Muhammad Haqazzii? Are you even here? Where are your lieutenants? Is today the day or just another red herring in your war against America?
The warrior inside her stood tall while energized spectators scrambled to their seats. Sydney continued setting up while Caroline peered out at the crowd, binos pressed to her eyes.
Minutes later, the March On began. The Cadets entered the stadium, followed by the Midshipmen. Sydney stood beside her sister as the students filed in. These young men and women had stepped forward to defend and protect their country. But these kids were just watching a football game. They were looking for a break from the demands of military college life, from the never-ending stream of exams and presentations. A day of fun in the December sun. A day of burgers and dogs, anthems and alma maters.
None of these people deserved the horror she feared could unfold.
As a thick cloud covered the bright autumnal sun, a chill skirted through her. Dread slithered into her bones, but she refused to let it take hold.
I’m trained, I’m ready, and I can do this.
Caroline clasped her hand. “Let’s say it together.”
They stood side by side, staring out at the filled stadium.
“Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil,” they murmured, “for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.”
“Amen,” Sydney whispered.
“Amen,” Caroline echoed.
The pressure was as high as it had ever been… and Sydney felt its true force. Today would be a test of her grit, and her skills.
“God, help me,” she whispered.
TEDDY
Teddy and Greystonehad a ton to get done before game time. First on their list: Make damn sure the press box stayed empty and locked. That, alone, was a demanding request. But they had an ace in their pocket and they’d use it if they had to.
As Hal routed them to the director of stadium communications, Teddy made a call. “Hawk, are you and Addison here?”
“Yeah,” Hawk replied. “We’re on the field checking with ground security. Whatcha need?”
“Two BLACK OPS to stand guard for Sydney and Caroline at the south press box.”
“I see them,” Hawk said. “Sin and Dakota would be perfect for that, plus they can help with spotting. I’ll make that happen.”
Teddy met the Director of Communications. “We’ve gotta relocate the Naval Academy personnel and anyone else from the south press box.”
He got pushback. Teddy shook his head. Then, the director tried to bargain.
“This isn’t up for negotiation,” Teddy said. “The press gets relocated and that box stays empty.”
