The First Step

Dean leaned against the wall of the dimly lit alleyway, his eyes scanning the street. The night air was thick with tension, the kind that settled deep into your bones. He'd been staking out this area for hours, waiting for the right moment to make contact. The file Rourke had given him mentioned Garrett, a low-level member of Thalia's gang who had been showing signs of wavering loyalty. If Dean could get close to him, maybe even win his trust, it could be the key to gaining access to the inner circle.

He checked his watch. Ten minutes past midnight. Garrett should be coming around any moment now.

Dean shifted his weight, pulling the collar of his jacket up against the cold. He'd done his homework—Garrett was a small-time player with big ambitions, someone who could be easily manipulated if you knew what buttons to push. He wasn't loyal to Thalia; he was loyal to whoever could help him move up the ranks. That made him a perfect target.

Suddenly, a shadow appeared at the end of the alley. Dean tensed, recognizing the figure as Garrett.

The man was tall and lanky, wearing a worn leather jacket and a scowl that suggested he wasn't here to make friends. He stopped a few feet from Dean, his eyes narrowing in suspicion.

"What do you want?" Garrett's voice was low, gravelly, the type that made you listen closely.

Dean took a slow step forward, keeping his expression neutral. "I'm looking for someone who can help me get ahead. Heard you might be the guy to talk to."

Garrett's gaze flicked over him, sizing him up. He didn't look impressed but also didn't immediately dismiss Dean. Good. He was cautious. That meant Dean could work with him.

"I don't know you, man," Garrett muttered, shifting on his feet. "Who the hell are you?"

Dean didn't hesitate. "Name's Daniel Ross. I'm new to the area, trying to make a name for myself." He pulled a pack of cigarettes from his pocket, lighting one casually. "Word on the street is you're a guy who knows how to make things happen. I'm looking for an in. A way to climb the ladder."

Garrett scoffed, clearly unimpressed by the attempt at flattery. "Yeah, and why would I help some nobody like you?"

Dean took a long drag from his cigarette, his eyes narrowing as he leaned in closer. "Because, Garrett, you want something more than what Thalia's giving you. You're tired of being stuck at the bottom. I know it. You think she doesn't see it? She's using you, keeping you around like a pawn."

Garrett stiffened, his hand tightening into a fist. Dean had struck a nerve.

"I don't know what you're talking about," Garrett muttered, his voice a little more guarded.

Dean smirked, flicking the ashes from his cigarette. "Sure you don't. But you're not blind. You want to be part of something bigger, something that'll get you the respect you deserve. I can help you with that."

For a moment, Garrett stayed silent, weighing his options. Dean knew the look—he was trying to decide whether this was some kind of trap or if it was a genuine offer.

Dean wasn't finished yet. He took another drag from his cigarette, letting the smoke linger in the air. "I'm not asking for much. Just a little guidance. If you help me, I'll make sure you get your shot. And you won't have to deal with Thalia's games anymore."

Garrett hesitated, his eyes darting around as if checking for eavesdroppers. Then, after what seemed like an eternity, he nodded. "Alright. I'll give you a chance. But don't get any funny ideas, Ross. I don't trust anyone that easily."

Dean smirked, flicking the cigarette onto the ground and stomping it out. "No funny business. Just business."

Garrett turned and started to walk away, but then paused. "Meet me tomorrow night. Same place. I'll have something for you."

Dean nodded, watching as Garrett disappeared into the shadows.

As soon as Garrett was out of sight, Dean's hand went to the comms device tucked under his shirt. "Target acquired. I've got a lead."

The game was moving forward. The first piece had been set into motion. Now, it was a matter of playing his cards right. If Garrett was the key to getting closer to Thalia, Dean would make sure he didn't fail. He'd make sure Garrett led him exactly where he needed to go.

But Dean knew one thing for sure—nothing would come easy. He'd have to earn Thalia's trust, and Garrett was just the beginning.