“Yeah,” Myles responded.
Brodie would be first in their procession line. He’d carry the shield to protect them from random shots that could be taken at them. The next person would have the tool to break the glass and insert the device into the home while the other two behind provided cover.
It was standard procedure, but having an armed suspect who could decide to use them as target practice made this extremely dangerous.
“Just as we practiced. In and out quick,” Zain agreed.
He and Iker came to stand next to Myles. They both had their weapons in their hands. Myles didn’t doubt for a second these two would protect him and Brodie. He was close to each member, and there wasn’t anything they wouldn’t do for each other.
“I just need Myles to stop daydreaming. Don’t think you got away from telling us what happened with you and the surveyor chick.” Iker chuckled. “Beers on me tonight.”
Myles rolled his eyes. He pulled his mask up over his face and secured his helmet. “One day, boys, when you grow up, you’ll learn not to kiss and tell.”
“Hmm…kissing was involved. Now we have to hear what happened.” Zain barked a hearty laugh. “We all live through your sexcapades.”
“Speak for yourself. I get plenty of women,” Iker said.
“Why haven’t I seen any of these so-called women?” Zain scratched his head.
“Because I wouldn’t want to scare them off with your ugly mug of a face,” Iker replied.
Myles and Brodie chuckled at the two of them.
Myles glanced over and caught a glare from Mac, who was speaking with the other sergeants in charge of the scene. “We best get a move on it.”
“Here is the cell you are to insert into the window.” Declan joined them. He handed the cheap phone to Myles. “Ash is staying behind to try to talk the suspect down. Mac and I will be posted to provide additional cover. We don’t like how many windows are in the house. We can’t see him and don’t want to take any chances.”
“The power?” Zain asked.
All amusement and joking had been put to the side.
“It’s been cut. You’re good to go. Be careful and keep your eyes open.” Declan met their eyes and gave the nod. He turned and jogged over where Mac was waiting for him.
“Let’s roll, men,” Myles announced, motioning to Iker and Zain.
Ash had plenty of experience negotiating. He was a natural at it and had an excellent track record. Myles trusted his close friend to be able to convince the man to release the hostages.
They lined up in close formation and approached the house. It was daylight, and everything in the yard was visible. Myles was thankful for the sun. Had this been at night, it would make it harder for all the unknowns who would be hidden under cover of darkness.
They kept a tight line with Brodie in front. Iker and Zain had their weapons trained on the house.
Silence ensued.
Tensions were high.
This was not a practice drill.
It was the real deal.
Myles could feel Iker behind him. They arrived at the side of the front porch and stayed as close to the home as possible. They slowly walked to the first window. Myles held the long metal pole with a clamp at the end. He’d use it to break the glass and toss the phone inside.
Brodie raised his fist, signaling their arrival at the destination.
The older home had outdated windows. It would be simple to hit the pane and smash it. From experience, the newer homes came fitted with glass that could withstand more pressure and were harder to shatter.
Myles moved in closer, staying conscious of his surroundings. He extended the pole with the hammer edge toward the target. Ready, he waited for the signal.
“We’re good,” Iker murmured quietly.
Myles swung the hammer, fracturing the glass. He tossed the phone inside.
Mission accomplished.
A man’s deep voice cursed from inside.
“Move,” Brodie snapped.
They immediately backed away from the structure. Myles kept his eyes on the house, praying the guy didn’t come to the window and start shooting.
It seemed like hours, but only minutes had passed since they’d completed their mission. They got back at the BEAR, unharmed.
“Good job, men.” Mac and Declan arrived where they stood. Their department-issue semiautomatic rifles hung from around their necks. Had the suspect opened fire, he would have paid dearly for it.
Now he was away from the house, Myles allowed his body to relax. He glanced at his team and nodded.
“We’re going to see if Ash can reach him. If we can’t talk him out of the building then we’ll breach the perimeter and enter,” Declan informed them.
“Sergeant MacArthur!” a voice called out.
