Thursday arrived with a bittersweet dawn for Vinnie, Jonny, and Lisa. The sun cast a warm, golden glow over the city, a stark contrast to the emotional turmoil within the trio as they prepared to say their goodbyes. Sal, now resting in a more secure suite thanks to Kai's efficient coordination, was showing signs of recovery from his gunshot wound. The night before, they had moved him to this new location, a suite on a quieter floor that promised both the privacy and the safety they desperately needed. Nick, ever the steadfast friend, was preparing to stay behind with Sal, ensuring his recovery was as smooth and undisturbed as possible.

The new suite was situated two floors up from their original location, it offered an enhanced layer of security and tranquility. The layout was similar, but this suite had a more comforting ambiance, perhaps due to its location within the building or the way the morning light filtered softly through the sheer curtains. The living room, spacious and inviting, held a calmness that was absent in their previous setting. The bedrooms offered serene retreats, and the addition of a small, well-equipped kitchenette was a thoughtful touch, allowing them the convenience of preparing meals without needing to venture out.

As they gathered in the living room, surrounded by their packed bags, the weight of the moment settled over them. Lisa, eyes shimmered with unshed tears, "Sal, you better get well soon. We need you back in action," she said, her voice thick with emotion. Sal, though still pale and undoubtedly in pain, managed a weak but genuine smile in response.

"I'll be up and about before you know it," Sal reassured her, his voice stronger than they expected. "Don't worry about me. Nicks got me covered, and I've got the best nurse in town," he added, his comment drawing a round of laughter from the team.

Nick stood by the window, his gaze lingering on the cityscape below. "Don't worry about us. We'll lay low and keep Sal out of trouble."

Jonny clapped Sal on the shoulder and turned to Nick, "Roger and Batu are only a call if anything should arise."

"You'll be up and walking in no time," Vinnie assured Sal.

"You've got that right," Sal agreed.

"While I'm here with Sal, I'll take the opportunity to do some more investigating into things," Nick stated, his tone firm and determined. "We need to understand exactly what we're up against, and if there's any more danger heading our way."

The team nodded in agreement.

They hugged and exchanged final words of encouragement; the reality of their situation was inescapable. With heavy hearts, Vinnie, Jonny, and Lisa made their way to the door, pausing for one last glance back at Sal and Nick.

***

The drive to the airport was quiet, each lost in their thoughts, replaying the events of the past days and the uncertainty of the days to come. Yet, amid the silence, there was an underlying current of hope and determination.

As the city faded into the distance, Vinnie's gaze remained fixed through the window, his mind tirelessly plotting their next strategies. Central to these considerations was the imperative to uncover the reality shrouding their friend Walter's sorrowful end. This pursuit of justice for Walter was not just a mission; it was a pledge, a driving force intertwining with their collective resolve.