Tensions Rise

(Scene): The following weeks were a whirlwind for Rio. His role in the task force consumed most of his time, and every day brought new challenges. His intelligence, quick thinking, and ability to adapt quickly earned him the trust and respect of the team. But with each passing day, the stakes seemed to rise. The remnants of the Echoes of Shadows were more elusive than they initially thought, and Victor Hale, though incarcerated, still had connections outside that posed a threat.

Rio was sitting at his desk late one night, going over some reports when his phone buzzed. It was Erica, who had been worried about him working such long hours lately.

(Erica's message): "Don’t forget about dinner tonight. You promised, remember?"

Rio smiled. He hadn’t forgotten. It had been a while since they had a proper evening together, and tonight was meant to be a break from the constant grind.

(Rio's message): "Of course, I didn’t forget. I’ll be there. Just finishing up."