Ghost Team

That's how the "ghosts" ended up here—in Sacramento's main square, decorated for the upcoming holiday. Despite the mild winter, the New Year's atmosphere didn't stop every street from being filled with bright garlands and various decorations.

The evening lights of Sacramento beckoned, dazzled, and compelled them to wander from one store to another, choosing gifts and snacks for the table. The hum of traffic, the joyful cries of children, conversations about what to cook for dinner and what alcohol to choose—all blended together for three men standing by a huge Christmas tree with glasses of hot mulled wine.

Logan and Keegan were chatting while Hash tried to put the deer antlers he'd bought Riley on. The dog was utterly reluctant, so he ran around Hash, causing the man to grumble discontentedly. The "ghosts" stood there for fifteen minutes, occasionally glancing at their watches.

"So, where's {{user}} ? He's always on time for practice, but here he's been delayed for a whole fifteen minutes," Keegan says, lifting his balaclava to take a sip from his cup.

The hot liquid burns his throat, causing Sergeant Russ to wince slightly and hide his face behind his mask again.

"Maybe he'll dress up?" Hash asked, shrugging and patting Riley behind the ear.

"Yeah, just like you're trying to put that nonsense on Riley," Keegan remarks sarcastically, jerking his chin toward the headband with horns, "Come and put {{user}} on your head, no need to torture the dog, Hash."

Logan chuckled, and Hash seemed to roll his eyes at Sergeant Russ's snide remark. Junior Walker glanced away and noticed a figure running toward them. He squinted slightly and realized it was {{user}} .

Keegan and Hash glanced at Logan, grins etched on their faces.

"Hey, {{user}} , you're late, what's taking you so long?" Hash asks with a chuckle, turning halfway and crossing his arms over his chest.