BOOK 12
Cherry has her feet up on the dash, scrolling through her playlist.
CHERRY
We’ve got four hours. Want me to make a music list or just let fate DJ?
EVE
How are you feeling? This is a lot for me—the idea of trying to charm one of the Salinas workers… I don’t wanna stir up skeletons Artimus’s tech already dampened.
CHERRY
Please. Your “abilities of persuasion” survived just fine. (smirking)
EVE
I’ll own that. But you—you go straight to business. Guys must love it.
CHERRY
Watch it. And maybe I learned from you… in that simulation. You came at me like a speeding tank.
They chuckle.
EVE
It was either that or punch your lights out. The energy made me aggressive. I wanted to stun you, embarrass you, steamroll you.
CHERRY
And I get it. If you felt a little sexual enjoyment, that’s just your body memory talking.
EVE
I allowed myself to enjoy it. Because that’s what I do to fool the enemy or it was partly to stun you. Like a good spank. But….
Thanks for not making it a thing.
A pause. The hum of the road.
EVE
You’re a young queen. That’s youth—keep that in mind when I need to redirect you. We’ll leave out the sexual connotations.
CHERRY
Are you leaving it out so you don’t get aroused… or me?
Eve just smiles at the road ahead.
EVE
Your morals extend to saving others even if it takes you out. That’s not something to be ashamed of. You and Lisa were right to trust your instincts on this plan—you saw it before the rest of us did.
CHERRY
Maybe I believe in you because… you’ve always been a little dangerous. Even when you’re protecting me, I never forget you could destroy me too.
EVE
I don’t get it. How would that make you believe in me—or even trust me?
CHERRY
Because you don’t flinch. Even if you’re unsure, you step in like you’ve already won. That kind of energy… it makes people want to follow you, even when the odds are garbage.
EVE
(skeptical but softening)
Or it makes people want to smack me.
CHERRY
(grinning)
Sometimes both.
EVE
Hate to bring this up… but is that why you smacked me in the simulation?
CHERRY
(half-smile)
No. That was me losing patience.
EVE
And here I thought it was strategy.
CHERRY
Oh, it was. Just not the kind you can teach in a workshop.
EVE
So… distraction.
CHERRY
And maybe a little reminder that I can mess with you, too.
EVE
(nodding)
That sounds like two sisters fighting to me. Thank God—because my behavior as a mom was starting to feel like a major fuck-up. Remind me never to have children.
CHERRY
Oh yeah, you’re definitely my older sister. Probably should reword the whole spankings thing then, sis.
EVE
(thoughtful)
I could say I’m gonna whip your butt. That’s a sister thing to say.
CHERRY
Sounds like a road trip game—anytime you see a red truck, you have to say another sister quote.
EVE
There’s one.
CHERRY
I’m gonna kick your lily-white ass.
(Both chuckle.)
EVE
I’m glad someone like you has my back on this mission—’cause my lily-white ass is gonna be out there.
CHERRY
Right back at you, sis. I feel exactly the same way… except my ass might be a little smaller. Harder to detect.
EVE
Don’t get me started on butt jokes, Cherry—we could burn the rest of the drive on that.
(beat, smirking)
I just hope Lisa’s having fun.
The Other SUV
LING
I’m just curious—how do you two feel about your girl Eve putting her ass out there, using her… womanly powers… to persuade this high-level employee?
LISA
I don’t like it.
ARTIMUS
Me neither. But it’s a skill—like Brad’s power of persuasion.
BRAD
Oh yeah, she’s top of the line. But how she got that good? Not her choice. Me—I chose that life.
LISA
And no offense, Brad, but you’re not trying to flirt with anyone.
LING
You better not.
ARTIMUS
I didn’t want her to do it, but Lisa and Cherry didn’t see any other way.
LISA
And if it goes bad, we’ll have to carry that.
ARTIMUS
Cherry’s got a backup plan.
LING
What? What’s her backup plan?
ARTIMUS
If Eve hits a wall, Cherry’s going in to do the same thing.
LING
Oh really… That Cherry. That’s some serious binge-TV-level drama right there.
Lisa shoots him a look sharp enough to cut glass.
LING
Sorry.
BRAD
If the guy’s gay, that means you’re up, Artimus. And Lisa—if that doesn’t work, you’re batting cleanup. Bases loaded, game on.
LING
Just like Lisa.
LISA
Yeah, my batting average is great in a pinch.
ARTIMUS
Best pinch hitter in the game.
EXT. RURAL ROAD – DAY
The two vehicles roll to a stop at an inconspicuous turnout—just dirt, scrub, and a lone utility pole. The air smells faintly of salt from the coast.
A matte-black stakeout van waits, doors already open. Two Guardians in nondescript jackets hop out, hand signals quick and precise.
GUARDIAN #1
Drop point secure. You’re in the blind from here on out.
GUARDIAN #2
(gesturing to the van)
Tech’s live. You won’t be spotted—not by them, not by their satellites.
The Queens and crew gather. The Guardians move with efficiency, sliding gear from their vehicles into the van—cases click, magnetic clamps snap into place.
Eve pauses by Cherry’s shoulder, watching the Guardians load out.
EVE
(sotto, dry)
They move like they’re loading a picnic basket.
CHERRY
(smirks)
Except this basket eats satellites for breakfast.
Lisa steps into the van, scanning the walls—slim screens, compact consoles, a faint hum under her boots.
LISA
(to Guardian #1)
Cloak tech’s running at full power?
GUARDIAN #1
You could park in the Salinas front gate and they still wouldn’t see you.
BRAD
Let’s not test that theory.
The Guardians who brought the van climb into the Queens’ abandoned cars. One gives a casual two-finger salute before pulling away, vanishing down the road.
Inside the van, seats are arranged theater-style, facing a multi-feed display. Real-time zooms of the Salinas perimeter flicker across the screens—workers in black-and-gray uniforms, trucks rolling through security gates, the glint of lenses that never quite point here.
ARTIMUS
(to Cherry)
This is where your contact comes in?
Cherry nods, already leaning toward the monitors.
CHERRY
Yeah. We just wait for him to walk out. Then Eve… does her thing.
LING
(grinning)
Or Lisa. Or Cherry. Depending on how it goes.
Lisa rolls her eyes, but she’s smiling faintly.
LISA
Let’s hope it doesn’t get that far.
The van’s hum deepens as Guardian tech seals them into the blind. The air feels close now—focused.
EVE
Alright, team. Eyes up. First look’s ours. Let’s make it count.
INT. GUARDIAN STAKEOUT VAN – NIGHT
The hum of the van’s cloaking tech is steady, almost soothing. Lisa and Eve sit in the back bench, knees touching. Lisa has Eve’s heels in her lap, thumbs working slow circles into her arches.
LISA
Nice pedicure. You got this for the job?
EVE
Come on, Lisa. You know I like to be prepared for anything.
From the front, Ling and Cherry exchange a knowing glance and chuckle under their breath. Brad smirks without looking up from his screen.
Artimus sits at the console, his tools spread out like a surgeon’s tray, muttering as he tweaks a set of microreceivers.
Time drifts. The van is warm, dim, and the quiet rhythm of the road makes everyone a little drowsy—everyone except Cherry. She leans forward in her chair, eyes locked on the bank of surveillance feeds.
Suddenly, her posture snaps straight. Fingers fly over the zoom controls.
CHERRY
This is him. I know it.
Everyone perks up instantly, leaning toward the monitors. On the screen: a man in a dark suit steps out of the high-level Salinas building, his security badge catching the light.
CHERRY
Okay—we follow. See where he goes.
The van eases into motion, maintaining distance as the target drives off. Twenty minutes later, he parks outside a small, amber-lit pub tucked into a side street.
BRAD
Best case scenario. Few drinks, loose lips.
In the back, Eve reaches for her bag. A sleek disguise mask—Mission Impossible style—waits inside. She slips it on, and somehow, she’s still Eve-level stunning.
ARTIMUS
Okay, babe—we’ll be watching and listening.
He clips a button-sized recorder to her neckline and checks the signal.
EVE
(half-smile)
Guess it’s showtime.
She adjusts her coat, takes one steadying breath, then steps out into the cool night, heels clicking softly against the pavement.
INT. PUB – CONTINUOUS
Eve walks in like she owns the place — head high, eyes scanning, every step deliberate. The camera catches a ripple of heads turning. She heads straight for the bar.
EVE
(to bartender)
Three of your best margaritas. Heard they’re the crown jewel here.
She clocks the drink special on the chalkboard without looking directly at it. As she turns to check her phone, she “accidentally” bumps into the man. His drink splashes across her sleeve.
EVE
Shit.
MAN
Oh, sorry—
EVE
Damn it. Bartender, can I get some water?
MAN
I’ve got water here—
They dab at her sleeve together, brushing hands.
INT. VAN – CONTINUOUS
BRAD
(grinning)
Classic Eve. Liquid sympathy trap.
CHERRY
It’s working. He’s already leaning in.
Lisa’s jaw tightens.
INT. PUB – CONTINUOUS
MAN
You come here often?
EVE
No. I’m on… let’s call it spring break with my friends. Needed R&R after exams.
MAN
Where you staying?
EVE
Hilton.
She lets the word hang, like an invitation.
INT. VAN – CONTINUOUS
LING
Hilton? That’s… classy.
BRAD
It’s bait, Ling. Let her fish.
Lisa stays silent, arms crossed.
INT. PUB – CONTINUOUS
EVE
Do you live in town?
MAN
Yeah, work at a tech company about twenty minutes away.
EVE
Oh, I’ve heard of that place. I’d love to work there someday… but they probably don’t take women right out of college.
She tilts her head, smiling just enough.
INT. VAN – CONTINUOUS
CHERRY
Bingo. He’s puffing up.
BRAD
Flexing his résumé already.
INT. PUB – CONTINUOUS
EVE
Really? You must be important. I’d love to pick your brain about all that tech stuff.
She leans in slightly — camera catches a hint of cleavage.
MAN
I’m John.
EVE
Darian.
JOHN
Beautiful name… and you’re beautiful.
Eve fakes modesty.
EVE
Weird… I feel comfortable with you.
He glances at the door.
JOHN
Your friends coming?
EVE
They’re late. They were supposed to grab stuff for the room.
INT. VAN – CONTINUOUS
LING
Oh, she’s got him. He’s thinking about that room already.
BRAD
And she hasn’t even touched his arm yet.
Lisa exhales sharply, not amused.
INT. PUB – CONTINUOUS
JOHN
Maybe I can show you around while you’re here.
Eve glances at his bare left hand.
EVE
No ring? Handsome man like you? Is that what you’d have me believe?
JOHN
I could say the same for you.
EVE
This weekend… I’m single. Believe it.
The air between them tightens.
INT. VAN – CONTINUOUS
Cherry smirks at the screen.
CHERRY
He’s done. Stick a fork in him.
INT. PUB – CONTINUOUS
JOHN
Can I buy you dinner? In your room?
EVE
(smiling)
I actually forgot my room number. But… I’ll give you my number.
She scribbles it on a napkin, slides it toward him.
EVE
Dinner sounds nice. Have the drinks on me — I’m calling it a night.
Her phone “rings.”
EVE
(into phone)
Just forget it, go back to the room. I’ll meet you there.
She walks out without looking back.
INT. VAN – CONTINUOUS
They all watch the feed until the door shuts behind her.
BRAD
And that… is why she’s top of the line.
Lisa says nothing, still staring at the screen.
The van door swings open to a burst of cheers.
Ling
Woo hoo, girl—you got skills! (snaps his fingers in a flourish)
The crew bursts into laughing and clapping.
Cherry
You did good!
(pulls Eve into a quick hug)
Eve
Thanks, sis.
(points a playful finger at her and gives her a quick swat on the hip)
Don’t you go trying that kind of thing.
Eve’s gaze shifts to Lisa. She moves toward her slowly, hands lifting in quiet invitation.
Eve
Hug?
Lisa steps in and wraps her arms around her.
Eve (whispers against her ear)
You know you’re the one that rocks my world.
Her hand slides briefly along Lisa’s hip, fingers brushing her curves.
Artimus
Alright—Hilton time. Let’s get the best room they’ve got.
INT. HILTON SUITE – NIGHT
The room is wired with Guardian micro-cams, their feeds split across the van’s monitors. A jacuzzi gurgles quietly in the corner.
Eve
(opening door, low and sultry)
Hi. Come in. Can I take your coat? Want a drink? I’m having bourbon.
John
I’ll have the same.
Eve hands him the loaded drink with a smile that says she already knows how this night ends.
John
You look beautiful.
Eve
Let’s sit on the couch. When’s dinner?
John
Thirty minutes.
Eve
Good. Time to talk… so, tell me about what you do exactly.
INT. STAKEOUT VAN – SAME
Ling
I wonder how far she’s gonna go.
No one answers. Eyes locked on the screens.
BACK IN SUITE
Eve leans forward, brushing his hand.
Eve
Oh, you have the cutest dimple. Let me get you another.
She moves to the bar. He follows, slides his arms around her. They kiss—slow, deep.
A sharp knock rattles the door.
Eve
(pulling back, smiling faintly)
Let me see who that is.
She opens the door. Cherry stands there, hair tousled, a buzzed grin plastered on her face.
Cherry
Hey, girlfriend! (strolls in) Just wanted to see if it’s true about your date.
(to John)
Hi… so you really work for ArmorTech? I hear the wildest sci-fi stories about that place.
Eve
We were just talking about it before you came. Cherry’s into conspiracy theories… gets herself in trouble. I swear I don’t know what to do with her sometimes.
Eve pinches Cherry’s bottom—quick, hidden. Cherry flinches, grinning.
Cherry
Ooh, honey, you know what that does to me. I don’t suppose that hot tub could hold one more…? It’s spring break—let’s let it all go, huh? What do you say, John? I’ve got a sexy game we can play. (swats Eve’s behind) Remember our sexy game?
John
You have no idea how down I am. Two gorgeous women. A sexy game?
Cherry
You didn’t tell me how handsome he is. And cute, too.
Eve
Cherry’s a “get to business” gal. Hope you’re into drinking games, stripping… interesting dares.
INT. STAKEOUT VAN – SAME
Brad
…She just weaponized the jacuzzi.
Lisa
It’s Eve. She’s always got a plan.
Artimus
Plan or no plan—John’s toast.
INT. HILTON SUITE – BATHROOM – NIGHT
Steam from the jacuzzi drifts in under the door. Eve and Cherry are in front of the mirror, fastening bikini straps.
EVE
I’m seriously whipping your butt later.
CHERRY
(grinning)
Promises, promises.
They help tie each other’s tops.
EVE
Remember—keep the drinks flowing. When you think he’s too gone to remember… we bring out the lie detector.
CHERRY
Got it. Let’s do this.
INT. SUITE – JACUZZI AREA
John is already in the bubbling water, drink in hand.
JOHN
If I drink this… you both lose your tops?.
EVE & CHERRY
That’s right, lover boy.
John downs it. They peel off their tops. The team in the stakeout van collectively leans forward toward the screens.
EVE
I think it’s time for the lie detector game.
CHERRY
I’ll get it.
EVE
It’s silly, really. We ask you questions, and if you tell the truth… we get more naked and cozy.
JOHN
I’m in.
Cherry slides the helmet over his head, checking the indicator lights.
CHERRY
Question one—tell me one thing you don’t like about your bosses.
JOHN
That’s confidential… but this thing has to turn green, right?
CHERRY
(leans in, kissing Eve)
Mmm…
JOHN
Okay, okay—my bosses are running secret-level energy projects that… hurt my feelings.
The helmet light flashes green.
CHERRY
Bikini bottoms gone. See?
JOHN
I see.
EVE
My turn—would you quit your job, or change things if you could?
JOHN
Oh yes. I’d get out.
Green again. Eve peels off her bottoms, steps out, and returns with a pill and water.
EVE
Take this—no hangover tomorrow.
JOHN
Even with all this booze, look at me—
CHERRY
We see, babe. Now hurry.
EVE
Take it.
John swallows it, then slumps unconscious against the tub wall.
INT. SUITE – CONTINUOUS
The Guardian team bursts in. Artimus pulls John up and out.
EVE
Let me take his vitals—
ARTIMUS
Maybe get some clothes first.
CHERRY
This is embarrassing. Towels, please.
Lisa tosses them over.
LISA
Dinner’s actually good. I tasted it.
INT. HILTON SUITE – BEDROOM – EARLY MORNING
Eve stirs in Lisa’s arms. The room is dim and still, the chaos from the night before now a faint hum in her memory. She blinks, feeling more sober—and more uneasy.
EVE
(to herself)
Where’s Cherry?
She reaches for her phone, calls Artimus.
ARTIMUS (V.O.)
She said she wanted to sleep in the van.
EVE
By herself? Okay… I’ll check on her.
She slips out from under Lisa, careful not to wake her, and heads for the door.
EXT. PARKING LOT – CONTINUOUS
The van sits silent. John’s car is gone. Eve’s heart drops. She peers inside—empty.
She calls Cherry. No answer. Calls Artimus again.
EVE
Cherry’s gone. Took John’s car. Track her phone. Me and Lisa will go get her.
INT. LISA’S CAR – NIGHT
The GPS pings. Eve grips the wheel, Lisa riding shotgun.
EVE
First she’s in a hot tub with me feeding a guy loaded drinks… now she disappears without a word? She’s hiding something.
LISA
And she’s not ready to tell us what.
EXT. HOTEL ROOM DOOR – MINUTES LATER
They knock. No answer. Eve calls Cherry again.
EVE
(into phone)
Busted. Hello—we’re outside your door. Get yourself together and come out.
The door swings open. Cherry stands there, dressed, ready to leave—defensive eyes meeting theirs.
EVE
Let’s go.
INT. LISA’S CAR – LATER
Lisa drives Cherry back. Eve takes the van to the suite.
INT. BEDROOM – NIGHT
Eve lies in bed when they return. The quiet feels heavier than before. Cherry undresses and slides into bed.
EVE
You’re in the middle.
All three lie down. A moment passes.
EVE
Why’d you leave?
CHERRY
I haven’t been sleeping. It… helps me sleep.
EVE
Why didn’t you just tell me? I thought we were sisters. I’m a doctor—I could help.
CHERRY
I thought you wanted time alone with Lisa.
Eve pulls back the covers, gives her a firm swat.
EVE
That’s dumb. You’re way more important than me and Lisa hooking up.
LISA
That’s right, Cherry.
Cherry’s eyes well. Lisa hugs her. Eve gets up, mixing a calming drink.
EVE
You’re carrying stress you shouldn’t have to. Talk to us.
Cherry sips, hesitates, then spills about the pressure and worry from the mission—how the Hilton stunt felt thrilling but also crushing afterward. Eve and Lisa listen, holding her between them until all three drift off, safe for now.
Eve wakes up and notices Cherry’s already in the small Hilton kitchen, nursing a coffee. The early light catches the faint shadows under her eyes.
Eve
You know… I didn’t want to put you through that whole seduction op.
(she walks over, gently rubbing Cherry’s cheek)
It’s something I got used to doing. You’re so young, and I didn’t want you to have to step into it.
Cherry
I had to. I’ve got your back. He was leaning in to kiss you. I knew you didn’t want that.
Eve
I could’ve handled it.
Cherry
Did you think I helped?
Eve
You were good. And I appreciate it.
(she pulls her into a hug)
I just wish neither of us had to do it—especially you, sweetie. Just a young queen.
Cherry
(smiling)
It was kind of hilarious, though.
Eve
(chuckling)
Yeah… it was.
INT. GUARDIAN SAFEHOUSE – CONFERENCE ROOM – MORNING
John sits at the end of a long table, hair still damp from the shower, wearing fresh clothes Brad tossed him earlier. His eyes are sharp now—suspicion replacing last night’s drunken haze.
Brad, Artimus, Buzz, and two Guardians flank him in a loose semicircle, keeping it casual but watchful. The low hum of Guardian tech pulses from the walls, a reminder that this place is wired for both comfort and control.
Brad slides a mug of coffee toward John.
Brad
We know what they’re doing, John. And we know exactly what they’ll try if they’re exposed.
Artimus
Look—you know me. I wouldn’t be here if I didn’t think this was doable… and necessary. But we can’t do it without your help.
John leans back, arms crossed.
John
The way you got me to talk last night… doesn’t exactly inspire trust.
(beat)
But—just curious—Lisa Snow. Is she in on this? Always wanted to meet her.
Brad
We can arrange that. You help us, you’ll be working alongside her.
Buzz
Wait—I thought you cared about what’s going on here.
John
I do. But this is big. And I don’t see a plan that would work. I’ve tried.
Artimus
That’s where you’re wrong.
(The door opens. Eve and Cherry stroll in, side by side. Cherry’s got that “I’m not apologizing for last night” look.)
Cherry
We have a plan. Guardians are backing it.
John
You? Dr. Eve?
Eve
That’s right. Come on, John—we’ve already been up close and personal.
(holding her hands up)
Do you think I strip for just anybody?
John
No…I wouldn’t think so.
Eve
Exactly. There’s something about you I like. We can do this together.
(Another voice from the doorway.)
Lisa
And we will.
Lisa steps in, confident, no rush, as if she’s been letting the anticipation work for her.
John
Lisa Snow.
Lisa
It’s my plan, John. And it’s already working.
(winks)
I specialize in doing the impossible. Let’s finish this.
John
And her?
(points at Cherry)
Eve
She’s our wild card—stupendous, don’t you agree?
(John glances between them, the wariness in his eyes shifting into reluctant intrigue. He’s still on the fence, but the hook is set.)
Back at the hotel room.
ARTIMUS
John’s agreed to talk—on one condition. We go under the lie detector too.
EVE
That’s fine.
LISA
When?
ARTIMUS
Now.
LING
But we go first. His rules.
BRAD
We don’t even know what he’s gonna ask.
CHERRY
Then maybe it’s not the smartest move.
LISA
(half-smiling)
Let’s find out before we call it stupid.
ARTIMUS
He wants you first.
(points at Eve)
EVE
(sighs)
Figures.
CHERRY
You honestly thought you’d walk away from that Hilton stunt without him pushing back?
INT. GUARDIAN OPS ROOM – DAY
A low hum from the lie detector fills the air. The team circles the table like it’s a high-stakes poker game.
John sits on one side, casual but sharp-eyed. The sleek Artimus tech helmet rests in front of him.
Eve slides into the chair. The helmet clicks down, scanning. John leans forward.
JOHN
How far would you have gone to con me?
EVE
No intercourse. No sex of any kind. Everything else? On the table.
JOHN
And how do you feel about it?
EVE
Not proud. But sometimes you take a hit or hurt someone’s pride to protect the bigger picture. I’ve even done it with my own team when I thought the stakes called for it.
JOHN
And if I’m part of your team?
EVE
Then I’d risk my life for you—same as I would for my family.
The helmet’s light stays solid green. John nods once.
Cherry drops into the chair next, shooting Eve a “don’t start” look.
JOHN
Why’d you jump in last night?
CHERRY
Because I saw you lean in to kiss Eve when she didn’t see it coming. That was my cue.
JOHN
Did Eve approve of you jumping in? And would you do it again?
CHERRY
Eve understood. She would rather protect me. But… sometimes I’d take the hit and deal with the punishment after.
Eve rolls her eyes, muttering under her breath.
JOHN
You sound like a liability.
CHERRY
I follow my gut—I’m not impulsive.
The helmet flashes red. Cherry groans.
CHERRY
Okay, fine. I get in trouble when I keep things to myself, act on impulse, or hide how I’m feeling. That’s what gets me spanked.
JOHN
Spanked?
CHERRY
Sometimes it’s a sharp talking-to. Sometimes it’s a swat just to get my attention. And if I really blow it—yeah, it’ll hurt.
Green light. Silence for a beat.
John leans back, looking between Eve and Cherry.
JOHN
…This is gonna be interesting.
INT. SUITE – NIGHT
The team’s scattered after the debrief. Lisa’s sprawled on the bed, scrolling. Eve leans against the dresser, arms crossed. Cherry’s half-wrapped in a towel, drying her hair.
EVE
So… “spanked”? Really? You just throw that out there to a guy we barely know?
CHERRY
(quiet, but steady)
I knew it’d hit him sideways. Make him see we don’t play by his rules. People like him — they respect that more than a straight sales pitch.
LISA
(grinning without looking up)
She’s not wrong. That landed.
EVE
Or it was reckless.
CHERRY
Maybe. But you didn’t see the way he looked at you after the Hilton. He had you pegged as a manipulator. I wanted him to see something else — that we’re real, even if it’s messy.
Eve studies her, caught between irritation and reluctant admiration.
EVE
You’re impossible.
LISA
Nah. She’s instinctive. And she’s ours.
Cherry smirks, the towel slipping from her shoulders.
PHONE CALL – VICTORY
The phone rings. Eve grabs it before the second ring.
EVE
(into phone)
Wow… okay. It worked? Yeah—no spankings tonight… but the night’s still young. You never know with these two.
(snickers)
Alright, that soon? I’ll tell them.
She hangs up, still smiling, and notices Lisa and Cherry watching her expectantly.
EVE
He’s in. Fully.
Lisa and Cherry slap a high five, leaning into each other.
EVE
The plan kicks off tomorrow. You did good, Cherry. I was wrong—again.
(half to herself as she crosses to the dresser)
And for the record, I get it worse than anybody.
TOWEL SNAP – PLAYFUL SHIFT
Cherry flicks her towel across Eve’s backside as she bends to grab a sweater.
EVE
Ow! Damn it, Cherry!
CHERRY
(grinning) Sorry… not sorry.
Eve straightens, rubbing the spot.
EVE
We actually need to sleep tonight. Big day tomorrow. And you—we’re talking about your midnight habits.
LISA
Yeah. No disappearing acts. How do you even pull that off without a grinder app?
CHERRY
(smiling faintly) It’s… easier than you think.
EVE
Protection every time?
CHERRY
Yes.
EVE
Good girl. But you ever try… other ways to wind down?
Lisa raises an eyebrow.
LISA
Male model porn?
CHERRY
(laughing) Has to be… what’s the word… stupendous. Otherwise, I’m wide awake.
LISA
Sounds like a sex addiction.
EVE
Didn’t wanna say it.
CHERRY
It’s easy to judge when you’ve got mirrors pointing the other way.
Eve snorts softly, but the laugh fades faster than usual.
INT. KITCHEN – 3 A.M.
The glow from Cherry’s phone lights her face. She sits hunched at the counter, scrolling, her bare feet hooked on the rung of the stool.
Eve pads in quietly.
EVE
Did you sleep at all?
CHERRY
Three hours, maybe.
EVE
(leans on the counter)
Something on your mind?
CHERRY
I don’t know… it’s like a current I can feel but can’t see. Not panic. Just… movement. Like something’s shifting under the floor and nobody hears it yet.
EVE
Your gut talking again?
Cherry nods, almost sheepish.
CHERRY
Same way it was before Sapphire. I can’t explain it. I just… can’t switch it off.
Eve studies her for a moment, then gestures toward the couch.
EVE
Come here. Lay down.
Cherry hesitates, then stretches out with her head on a pillow in Eve’s lap. Eve massages her neck slowly, her touch grounding.
EVE
If your gut’s right, we’ll be ready. You don’t have to carry it alone.
They share a quiet look — the kind that says they both know tomorrow could bring anything — then a soft cheek-to-cheek kiss before heading back to bed.
INT. UNDISCLOSED LOCATION – GUARDIAN SECURE ROOM – NIGHT
A long table stretches through the dim space. The hum of Guardian tech seals them in—total privacy, undetectable to any surveillance.
JOHN
Artimus nailed it. These codes will get you in. No one should suspect a thing. And you’ll use these—identity masks.
ARTIMUS
So the Guardians built tech to destroy the lizards’ grid-feeders. Once that’s done, we close the portal. That’s the tricky part. We’re trusting they know what they’re doing.
BRAD
I’ll take on the top dog—Brandon Low. He’ll erase his kill orders or retaliation plans before we pull the trigger. I’ll use the lie detector.
ARTIMUS
Brandon’s in the office tomorrow. So… we do it then, or we wait until later. Vote time.
CHERRY
Before we decide—everyone clear on their job for if we go tomorrow?
EVE
I am. But Cherry—you said something’s changed. What are you feeling now?
CHERRY
We need to move tonight, not tomorrow. The lizards are already adapting, finding ways to counter the Guardians’ portal tech. If they crack it first, we may never get another shot.
JOHN
That tracks. Not sure our odds are great, but… this is probably our best window.
LISA
The Oracle says we’re a go. Best chance we’ll get.
BUZZ
I’m no gambler… but I’m in for tomorrow.
BRAD
Anyone here want to wait?
No hands go up. The silence is heavy.
LING
Will Brandon be there this evening?
JOHN
He’ll be in his quarters around midnight.
EVE
Wouldn’t it look suspicious for us to go in that late—or that early in the morning?
JOHN
Not if I approve the entry. No one would question it.
ARTIMUS
Then we need to rest.
(looks straight at Cherry)
All of us. We wake up at 2 a.m., gear up, and go.
John closes his datapad with a sharp click.
NARRATOR
The meeting breaks. Chairs scrape back, footsteps echo in the chamber, but no one talks much. The weight of the next few hours hangs over them like static in the air.
INT. SAFEHOUSE – NIGHT
The room is dim, heavy with the hum of late-night exhaustion and unspoken dread. Outside, the world feels paused, like the air is holding its breath.
EVE
Okay… how can any of us sleep when tomorrow could be D-day for any one of us?
The table goes quiet.
Eve’s gaze sweeps between Lisa and Cherry.
EVE (softer)
Promise me—if anything happens to me—you’ll go on.
LISA
Stop. Don’t say that.
CHERRY
If anything happens to you… I won’t survive it.
Eve moves closer, the chair legs scraping.
EVE
Cherry… you can survive more than you realize.
Cherry’s chin trembles. She tries to deflect with a smile, but her eyes betray her.
CHERRY
Then you two should be together tonight—in the biblical way. It’s the right thing. Because tomorrow… there’s a big chance it won’t work.
She stands abruptly, grabbing her jacket.
CHERRY (tearing up)
Just let me do my thing. It’s all I’ve known. It’ll give you time.
EVE
No.
CHERRY
(raising her voice)
Yes! You can’t stop me!
She makes for the door, but Lisa moves into her path, arms folded—a silent blockade.
LISA
You’re not going anywhere, Cherry. Not tonight.
Cherry freezes, caught between them. Eve steps forward, slow, deliberate.
EVE
Shhh… it’s okay.
She pulls Cherry into a hug, her voice dropping to a whisper.
EVE
Do you want me?
Cherry stares into her eyes, breath hitching. The seconds stretch before she nods—barely—and closes the space with a kiss.
Lisa is still there, watching. Eve meets her eyes over Cherry’s shoulder, a silent question. Lisa gives the smallest nod—permission granted.
Eve deepens the kiss, her hand sliding up to cup Cherry’s cheek, then down, tracing her jaw before following the line of her throat. The kiss turns slow and hungry, as if she’s memorizing every taste. Her other hand glides over Cherry’s hip, cupping and caressing her buttocks with a firm, claiming touch, pulling her closer.
Lisa steps in behind Cherry, unfastening her bra clasp and letting it fall. Her palms skim over Cherry’s breasts, teasing in soft, circling touches while Eve lowers to kiss her collarbone, then down, pressing her lips along the slope of her chest.
Eve’s hands move with purpose—down over hips, along thighs—lingering at the back of each leg before sweeping forward, tracing the sensitive inner thigh. Her thumbs press lightly into the soft flesh just beneath Cherry’s hips, her fingers curling around to caress her behind. She watches every shift of breath, every small shiver, as if she’s reading her like a book.
She slips open the button of Cherry’s pants, the glide of her long, manicured fingers a contrast against pale skin. Lisa helps ease the fabric down. Eve’s touch follows immediately, cupping, then stroking her thighs as if she’s claiming them. .
EVE
Are you okay? Should I go further? If you want something, you should say.
CHERRY
Your mouth first.
Eve lays her back, Lisa pressing warm, open-mouthed kisses to her neck as Eve’s fingers stroke, find, replace with lips—holding Cherry’s hips steady as she works with patience and precision. The tension builds until Cherry shudders and breaks, breathless.
They collapse together, tangled.
Eve leans in close.
EVE
I can penetrate you with my fingers, you know.
CHERRY
I know. But you made it… a perfect first time.
EVE
Oh, I’m putting your bottom to sleep so we can go for hours.
CHERRY
Is spanking involved?
Eve glances at Lisa, smirking.
EVE
If you want there to be, young lady.
Eve woke in the still-dark hours, the room hushed except for the steady breathing of Lisa and Cherry curled in sleep. An idea had been gnawing at her since she closed her eyes—one she couldn’t ignore.
Moving soundlessly, she padded to the small pile of folded clothes by the bed and began laying out the outfits everyone would wear for the mission. She worked in both hotel rooms, her movements purposeful, deliberate. From her pocket she drew a small envelope, tapping out two tiny capsules into her palm for each person. Without ceremony, she slipped them into the pockets of their pants.
It was a grim insurance policy—one she prayed they’d never need. If capture and torture became inevitable, they’d have a way out.
When she was done, Eve crossed the hall and let herself quietly into Artimus’s room. She slid into bed beside him, curling against his warmth. They spoke little, their quiet presence saying more than words could. She stayed there until 1:30 a.m., then rose and returned to her room, settling beside Lisa and wrapping an arm around her until the alarm shattered the darkness at 2:00 a.m.
Cherry stirred, blinking in surprise. “I actually slept,” she murmured, almost in disbelief.
No one made a sound about what came next, but word passed quietly from one to another as they prepared—each person learning what Eve had done, and understanding without her needing to explain why.
The Final Push – Infiltration
00:38 hours
The team split at the junction, their footsteps muffled by Guardian sound dampeners.
Brad’s Job – Neutralizing Brandon
Brad moved like a shadow through the executive wing.
The biometric ID mask projected Brandon’s personal assistant’s face, enough to pass the corridor checkpoints. He slipped into Brandon’s private office, finding the man at his desk, still in shirt sleeves, eyes on a datapad.
Brad (low, firm):
“Brandon. We’re going to have a chat.”
Before Brandon could react, Brad triggered the Guardian lie detector overlay — a shimmering grid of light across the room. Every answer now would light up falsehoods like flares.
Brad:
“You’re going to stand down. Cancel every kill order, every reprisal plan. And you’re going to do it now.”
Minutes later, Brandon’s hands were shaking as he signed the authorizations. Brad sent the confirmation code to the team:
“Target neutralized. Proceed.”
Artimus, John, and Ling – Dismantling the Grid
Deep in the facility’s core, Artimus led the way, bypassing triple-layer encryption on the power nexus.
Ling was a blur of movement, rerouting conduits and pulling crystalline relays without triggering failsafes. John stood watch at the entry point, his Guardian rifle steady.
Artimus:
“Three more relays and this whole ugly thing dies.”
Ling:
“Make it two. Already ahead of you.”
The last relay came free with a snap, and the hum of the grid dropped an octave before vanishing entirely. The air felt instantly lighter, less oppressive.
John:
“Alarms are dead. Portal team, you’re clear.”
The Portal Room
The Guardian escort led Eve, Lisa, and Cherry into a chamber lit in violent blues and shimmering gold — the portal’s energy swirling like a living storm in the air.
Eve’s stomach knotted. The readings on the Guardian scanner told the truth: the shutdown sequence wouldn’t complete unless someone was on the other side to lock it down. And the moment it closed, that person wouldn’t be coming back.
Guardian Tech:
“It must be done from within. Once the seal is in place… no return.”
Lisa stepped forward immediately.
Lisa:
“Then I’m going—”
Eve:
“No. This is my job.”
Cherry:
“You’re out of your mind if you think I’m letting you do this alone.” She moved to step past her, but Eve blocked her with both hands.
Eve:
“I need you both alive. That’s how this ends.”
Lisa’s eyes glistened. “There’s got to be another way—”
Eve:
“There isn’t. And we don’t have time to argue.”
Cherry’s voice cracked. “If anything happens to you—”
Eve reached for her, pulled her close, and whispered in her ear.
Eve:
“Then don’t think about the end. Just be here with me.”
She searched Cherry’s eyes. “Do you want me?”
Cherry froze, breath hitching — then nodded. Eve kissed her deeply, holding her face in both hands as if memorizing it. Lisa moved closer, her hand finding Cherry’s back, her touch trembling.
The three of them pressed together in the hum of the portal’s light, sharing a moment that was half urgency, half refusal to say goodbye.
When the kiss broke, Eve touched Lisa’s cheek.
Eve:
“Take care of each other.”
She turned, walked into the swirling storm, and was gone.
INT. PORTAL CHAMBER – AFTERMATH
The portal collapses with a violent flash, then silence. Just humming machinery, the smell of ozone, and smoke drifting.
Cherry screams—raw, broken—and bolts for the door.
CHERRY
(sobbing, panicked)
No! No, no, no!
Lisa staggers forward as if she can still reach Eve, staring at the empty air. Her hands tremble.
LISA
(whispering)
She… she didn’t come back.
The Guardian lowers his head, silent.
INT. HALLWAY – CONTINUOUS
Cherry runs through the corridor, tears streaking down her face. She slams into the wall, fumbling for breath, then keeps going, almost animal in her grief.
INT. CONTROL WING – SAME TIME
Brad, Ling, and Artimus finish their task, sweaty, adrenaline-soaked, but victorious. John rushes in behind them.
JOHN
We’ve got it—systems are down, security’s locked. Where are the girls?
They exchange tired smiles—until Lisa appears in the doorway.
She’s pale. Her lips tremble as she tries to form words.
LISA
(voice breaking)
She… she went in. And… she didn’t come back.
The room stills.
Brad shakes his head violently, as if refusing the thought.
BRAD
No. No, that’s—Eve doesn’t just… No.
Ling slams his fist into the wall with a guttural roar.
LING
Damn it! DAMN IT!
Artimus stands frozen, chest heaving. His eyes glisten, but he won’t let the tears fall.
ARTIMUS
(quiet, hollow)
She knew. She knew it was her.
Lisa finally collapses, sobbing into Brad’s chest. Brad holds her but his own tears stream unchecked.
John sets his jaw, his voice tight with rage and grief.
🌌 Rescue Scene: Gardenia Return
The chamber on Gardenia thrummed with light, crystalline walls shifting like they were alive. Cherry stood between Sapphire and Evelyn, palms slick with sweat, but her eyes blazing.
Evelyn
(focused, scanning the resonance)
“There—just beyond the interference. She’s tangled in their machines. We don’t have long.”
Sapphire
(raising her bow, pulling it across invisible strings)
“Then we cut straight through.”
A haunting note pierced the chamber, vibrating reality itself. Space wavered like rippling glass, and in the distortion, they saw her: Eve, suspended in a tangle of dark cords, energy leeching out of her body.
Cherry
(stepping forward)
“No… no, you don’t get to keep her.”
She reached through the veil. The cords shocked her arms, burning, but she held steady. Sapphire’s music widened the tear, Evelyn’s hands pushed the distortion open—and Cherry locked onto Eve’s wrist.
Cherry
“Eve! It’s me—don’t fight me!”
Eve stirred weakly, eyes half-closed, lips trying to form words. Cherry pulled harder, every muscle shaking. Evelyn pressed in behind her, steadying her shoulders, Sapphire’s bow screaming brighter notes until—
With a final wrench, Eve ripped free.
They collapsed backward onto the Gardenia floor. Eve lay pale and trembling in Cherry’s arms, cords of black smoke evaporating off her skin.
Eve
(hoarse, whispering)
“Cherry… you found me.”
Cherry pressed her forehead against hers, tears streaking.
Cherry
“I told you—I won’t survive without you. Not now. Not ever.”
Sapphire lowered her bow, breathless. Evelyn exhaled and nodded.
Evelyn
“She’s back. For now. But the fight’s not over.”
Cherry didn’t hear. She only held Eve tighter, rocking her gently like something both fragile and immortal.
🌌 Gardenia → Earth: The Relief
The light faded, leaving only silence. Eve lay breathing steadily on the crystal floor of Gardenia, Cherry’s arms wrapped tight around her. Sapphire and Evelyn exchanged weary nods. It was over—for now.
Back on Earth
Lisa was pacing when Ling’s comm crackled. Everyone froze—Artimus, John, Brad, even the guards. Then Evelyn’s voice came through, calm but tired:
Evelyn (over comm)
“She’s here. Eve is safe.”
The room went still. For a beat, no one moved. Then relief crashed like a tidal wave.
Brad dropped into a chair, rubbing his eyes, whispering, “Thank God.”
Ling grinned and slapped the table, shaking his head. “Knew the stubborn fool would find her way back somehow.”
Artimus leaned hard against the wall, eyes burning as he let out a laugh that was half-sobs.
Lisa closed her eyes and pressed a hand to her mouth, shoulders trembling. She didn’t even realize she was crying until Brad put a hand on her back.
Lisa
(whispering to herself)
“She’s really back…”
The others started talking at once—plans, questions, what next—but for a moment Lisa let it all wash past. All she could feel was the massive release of pressure, the ache in her chest softening just enough to breathe.
Ling
(to the room, smiling)
“Then it’s done. We’ve got her back. That’s all that matters.”
No one argued. For now, it was enough.
Scene: After the Rescue
Eve lies on her bed, head resting against Artimus’s chest, his steady breathing grounding her. Cherry sits at the foot of the bed, massaging Eve’s feet with quiet devotion.
Lisa moves around the room, slipping on earrings, picking up her jacket—already half gone before she’s even out the door.
Eve
(soft laugh, looking between them)
“Wow… I can’t believe that tech of yours really erased whatever happened to me over there. I feel… great. Like it never happened.”
Lisa
(clipping on a bracelet, barely looking up)
“That’s good. I’ll see you later—I’m meeting a friend.”
Eve
(holding out a hand, almost pleading)
“Give me a kiss.”
Lisa leans in, drops a quick kiss on her lips, then turns and leaves. The door clicks shut. Eve stares at it a moment too long, a flicker of unease crossing her face.
Artimus
(sitting up, stretching)
“I think it’s time I head back to work.”
Eve
(teasing lightly, but distracted)
“Back to the grind.”
Artimus
“You know I enjoy it.”
Eve
“I know.”
He slides out, leaving the two women alone. Silence hangs in the room, thick and waiting.
Eve
(turning toward Cherry, searching)
“I guess we’ve got to figure out our lives now too. What do we do?”
Cherry
(avoiding her eyes)
“What do you want? Not me, obviously.”
Eve
“Cherry… weren’t you heterosexual? We’re all still catching up to what that even meant for you.”
Cherry
(scoffs, cutting her off)
“So that night didn’t mean anything? When your face was between my legs?”
Eve
(sits up, firm but gentle)
“I didn’t say that. It meant I love you—and I was willing to love you in that way too, because of what we were facing. Because of you.”
Cherry
(voice sharp, covering the hurt)
“I get it. A one-time thing. Like all my other dates.”
She pushes up suddenly, grabs her jacket, and storms out before Eve can answer.
Eve watches the door close—again—and feels the weight of absence press down. She grabs her phone, thumbs flying over the screen.
Text to Lisa:
We need to talk.
Dinner Scene
The kitchen smells of roasted garlic and onions. Eve stirs absentmindedly at the pot, shoulders hunched, as if the food itself is just another burden she has to carry.
Cherry walks in, quieter than usual. She hovers by the doorway, then slips in. Eve turns, sees her, and without hesitation pulls her into a hug.
Eve
(murmuring into Cherry’s hair)
“We’re always going to be close. Family. You know you can find someone. You’re young—it’ll happen.”
Cherry clings to her, but pulls back enough to search Eve’s face.
Cherry
“So you really don’t want me anymore? Please, Eve. Be honest. I need to hear it.”
Eve winces, as if Cherry’s words are pressing down on a bruise.
Eve
“Cherry… that’s not fair. I’ve committed myself to Lisa and Artimus. And you—you didn’t even talk to Lisa after I went through the portal. It’s all about me. You’re focused on me, and it can’t be just me and you. You understand my position? How long have I been with Lisa and Artimus?
Cherry’s lips tremble. She stares at the floor.
Cherry
“I don’t know what’s wrong with me. But I want someone who will just want me back.”
Eve cups her face, tears pressing into her own eyes now.
Eve
“You deserve that. You can have that. You’re not gonna leave me, are you?”
Cherry jerks back, voice sharp and shaking.
Cherry
“Like you would care.”
Eve swallows, her voice breaking.
Eve
“I do care. More than you know. You’re like my best friend. Like a sister. And I know it’s fucked up, what happened. But I wouldn’t change it. Would you?”
Cherry blinks, anger and longing colliding.
Cherry
(after a long silence)
“…I might.”
That cuts through Eve like a blade. Her breath hitches.
Eve
“That hurts me. I have feelings too.”
She sets the wooden spoon down, pushes the pot off the heat.
Eve
(voice breaking)
“Your dinner’s ready. I lost my appetite.”
She turns, disappears into the bedroom, and shuts the door behind her. Inside, muffled sobs echo against the silence of the apartment.
Cherry stands there in the kitchen, frozen, the smell of dinner still heavy in the air, the weight of her own words pressing down.
Later That Night
The apartment is quiet except for the hum of the refrigerator. The bedroom door is closed, Eve’s muffled sobs long since gone silent.
Cherry sits slumped at the kitchen table, a plate of untouched food in front of her, staring at nothing.
The door clicks open. Lisa steps in, brushing the night air off her jacket. She notices the silence immediately.
Lisa
(softly)
“…Cherry?”
Cherry looks up, eyes red and swollen.
Cherry
“She’s in the bedroom. Won’t come out.”
Lisa sets her bag down and slowly takes the chair across from her.
Lisa
“What happened?”
Cherry hesitates, fingers twisting in her lap.
Cherry
“I pushed too hard. Again. I asked her to be honest… if she wanted me. And she said no. She said I’m too focused on her. She’s right.”
(voice breaking)
“But it doesn’t stop me from wanting her anyway.”
Lisa studies her quietly, expression soft but steady.
Lisa
“You love her.”
Cherry
(nods, almost ashamed)
“I can’t stop. Even though I know she’s yours. Yours and Artimus’s.”
Lisa leans back, folding her arms, but her tone stays gentle.
Lisa
“Cherry… wanting someone doesn’t make you wrong. Acting like you’re the only one who can have her—that’s where it gets messy.”
Cherry blinks fast, fighting fresh tears.
Cherry
“I don’t want to lose her.”
Lisa tilts her head, choosing her words carefully.
Lisa
“You won’t. But you might have to accept her in a way that doesn’t look like what you want.
Cherry swallows, nodding, but it’s reluctant.
Lisa stands, gently resting a hand on her shoulder.
Lisa
“Eat something. Rest. I’ll talk to her tomorrow too. We’ll figure this out.”
Cherry grips Lisa’s hand briefly, as if she’s clinging to a lifeline, then lets go. Lisa moves toward the bedroom, pausing with her hand on the door. She looks back at Cherry, her face softening.
Lisa
“You’re not alone in this, kid.”
Cherry nods, but when Lisa disappears into the bedroom, she sinks back into her chair, more lost than ever.
Bedroom Scene — Eve and Lisa
The room is dim, just the glow of the streetlight cutting through the blinds. Eve and Lisa lie side by side, neither asleep, the silence thick.
Lisa
(quietly, but sharp)
“I have a question for you. If I was out of the picture… would Cherry take my place?”
Eve shifts, frowning.
Eve
“Why would you even ask that?”
Lisa
(turning to face her)
“All this queen energy, these missions—I’m not into it. I’m not a subject, I’m not a soldier. I just want peace. A life without the constant chaos.”
(beat)
“I need a break.”
Eve stares, stunned.
Eve
“A separation?”
Lisa
“This… Cherry and you thing, it left a bad taste in my heart. Go explore it if you want. I know you wanted her. But I never did, Eve. All I ever wanted was you.”
(her voice cracks)
“I’m sorry.”
Eve reaches for her, desperate.
Eve
“I don’t want to explore her, Lisa. I want my girlfriend back. I want you. I want you to see what we’ve done—all the good—even if it’s been messy. And I agree: no more missions. I just… I love you. I want you.”
She cups Lisa’s cheek, searching her eyes.
Lisa gently takes Eve’s hand away.
Lisa
“This house is a mess inside and out. We can’t heal here. Not with her down the hall. At least I can’t. I’m taking a break from us. I’ll leave tomorrow.”
Eve is silent for a long moment. Then she lets out a breath, resigned.
Eve
“…Okay. Then I’ll leave tonight. You might want to sleep with Cherry. I’ll be packing.”
She rolls out of bed, her voice flat now, like she’s sealing a door shut.
Kitchen Scene — The Fallout
Lisa is at the counter, nursing a glass of water, staring blankly. The front door creaks open and Artimus walks in, shoulders tense.
Artimus
“Where’s Eve?”
Lisa
(flat, almost numb)
“She left.”
Artimus freezes.
Artimus
“Left where?”
Lisa
(shakes her head, avoiding his eyes)
“I don’t know.”
Artimus
(stepping closer, voice rising)
“What happened?”
Lisa
(her voice cracks as she exhales)
“I told her I wanted a break. I told her I was leaving tomorrow and… of course she left before I could.”
Artimus stares at her in disbelief.
Artimus
“What? Lisa, you were devastated when we thought she wasn’t coming back. And now—this? You stab her when she’s barely getting back to normal?”
Lisa presses a hand to her forehead, silent.
Artimus
(angry, but hurt underneath)
“So that’s it? You’re leaving both of us, and this—this is how I find out?”
Lisa finally looks at him, tears welling. She doesn’t answer.
Artimus shakes his head, grabs his jacket, and storms out.
Stage Direction:
From the guest room, Cherry sits frozen on the edge of her bed, listening to every word. She presses her hands to her face, caught between guilt and fear, whispering to herself:
Cherry
(to herself, breaking)
“What have I done…?”
Hotel Scene — Eve & Artimus
Stage Direction:
Eve opens the door of a quiet hotel room. Artimus is there. They fall into a hug, holding on longer than usual.
Eve
(soft, tired)
“I’m staying gone from my own house. Cherry’s the wrench in everything. Let her have the place. Tell her and Lisa—they can live there.”
Artimus
(firm, reassuring)
“Then we’re taking off. We’ll go on a trip. A cruise. Just you and me.”
Eve
(looks up, surprised, then melts against him)
“Really? Thank you.”
She cuddles into him, her body finally relaxing.
House Scene — Lisa & Cherry
Stage Direction:
Back at the house, Lisa is in the kitchen, restless. Cherry appears in the doorway, her face pale but determined.
Cherry
“I heard what you said. Why do you want a break?”
Lisa
(turning to face her, blunt)
“I never wanted you, Cherry. I was faithful in my heart. I went along with everything because I loved Eve. But this? The three queens, the missions, the queen energy—it’s not me. I’m not a subject, and I’m not going on another mission.”
Cherry lowers her gaze, shame flooding her.
Cherry
“I’ve ripped up everything in her life. I hurt her feelings earlier, and now… I ran her out of her own home.”
Lisa’s phone buzzes. She looks at a message from Artimus, then reads it aloud.
Lisa
“Artimus says we have the house now. They’re not coming back here.”
Cherry’s voice cracks.
Cherry
“Because of me.”
Lisa studies her for a moment, then steps closer.
Lisa
“No. Because you don’t believe someone else can be your person. I’ve been there. I know that desperation.”
Cherry swallows hard, lost.
Lisa
(with sudden clarity)
“I’m going to date during this break. And I want you to come with me.”
Cherry
(confused)
“Come with you? Watch you date and find someone?”
Lisa
“That’s right. Like an internship program. Learn what it feels like to try again. To see possibilities.”
Cherry blinks, stunned.
Cherry
(slowly, with reluctant respect)
“You’re serious… You’d walk away from Eve, just like that. And not even bat an eye.”
Lisa steps closer, eyes sharp.
Lisa
“Come find out why I can do that… and why you can’t.”
Cherry hesitates, then nods, almost whispering:
Cherry
“Deal.”
Private Double Date Scene
(A quiet lounge, private back room. Dim lighting, soft music. Lisa and Cherry sit across from each other, each with a date: Lisa with the polished political woman, Cherry with the intuitive spiritual woman Ling set her up with. Drinks are half-finished, plates pushed aside. Conversation turns more personal.)
Political Woman (to Lisa):
“You’ve carried so much weight for everyone. I can see it in the way you hold yourself. But tell me—do you want to keep being the one they all follow? Or do you want to rest?”
Lisa (leans back, exhales):
“I don’t know if I ever wanted to be followed. I wanted… a girlfriend. A life. Not a title.”
Political Woman (smiles gently):
“Then maybe the bravest thing you can do isn’t another mission. Maybe it’s saying no.”
(Lisa goes quiet, her eyes flicking to Cherry across the table. Cherry is laughing nervously with her date, but the conversation is cutting deep on her side too.)
Spiritual Woman (to Cherry):
“You’ve told me about Eve. And Lisa. And even Artimus. But what about you? Why do you keep falling for people who already belong to someone else?”
Cherry (defensive laugh):
“Maybe I like the challenge. Maybe I don’t know how to want someone who’s free.”
Spiritual Woman (steadily):
“Or maybe you don’t believe anyone would choose you if you weren’t competing for them.”
Cherry (swallows hard, voice breaking slightly):
“Maybe I don’t.”
(Lisa hears that, and something in her face softens. For the first time, she doesn’t feel threatened by Cherry—she just feels sad for her.)
Lisa (teasing, to lighten the mood):
“Cherry, you’re actually blushing. Didn’t think I’d ever see the day.”
Cherry (throws a grape at her):
“Shut up, Snow.”
(Laughter ripples around the table, tension breaking. But the truths still hang in the air. Each woman has been seen tonight in a way that stings and heals at the same time.)
Political Woman (quietly, to Lisa as they stand to leave):
“Peace is still a choice you can make. Even now.”
Spiritual Woman (to Cherry):
“You don’t need to chase what isn’t yours. Let someone choose you next time.”
(Lisa and Cherry exchange a long look across the room as their dates step away to get coats. Lisa leans in, voice low and honest.)
Lisa:
“For once, I think we’re in the right place at the right time.”
Cherry (nods, voice soft):
“Maybe. Just not with who we thought.”
Continuation of the Scene
(The group is putting on coats, lingering at the door of the lounge. Cherry is standing with the spiritual woman, both quiet for a moment. Lisa is nearby with her date, half-watching but not interfering.)
Spiritual Woman (softly, to Cherry):
“You know… I liked tonight. I liked you.”
Cherry (startled, nervous laugh):
“Liked me? You mean, the mess who spills her guts over dinner?”
Spiritual Woman (smiling, unfazed):
“Exactly that. Messy feels real. And I’d like to see you again—no missions, no drama, just us. What do you say?”
Cherry (blinks, clearly caught off guard):
“Wait, like… an actual date-date?”
Spiritual Woman (grinning):
“Yes, Cherry. An actual date-date.”
(Cherry looks down, biting back a grin she doesn’t want Lisa to see. She nods quickly, her cheeks pink.)
Cherry:
“Yeah. Okay. I’d like that.”
(The woman slips a small card into Cherry’s hand—just a number and a first name. Lisa catches Cherry’s expression and, instead of jealousy, lets out the smallest smile of relief. For the first time, Cherry has something that’s hers alone.)
Polished Narration
Two months slipped by in a blur. Lisa was dating. Cherry had finally settled into a relationship of her own. And Eve—Eve had vanished from the daily rhythm of their lives, traveling the world with Artimus.
How It Began
Eve had been moping for days—half-dressed in a robe, staring at the sea from their villa balcony, swirling a glass of wine she never drank. The sparkle was gone. She looked more like someone waiting for doom than the woman who once laughed at chaos.
Artimus finally had enough. He tossed his tablet on the bed and muttered, “That’s it.”
Eve barely turned her head. “What’s it?”
“This,” he said, striding over, pulling her to her feet. She blinked at him. Before she could argue, Artimus sat down, yanked her across his lap, and landed a crisp smack.
Eve gasped. “Artimus!”
“Exactly. You’re alive. You make sound. Congratulations,” he said dryly, delivering another. “Queen of Melancholy, dethroned.”
She tried to wriggle away but ended up laughing in spite of herself. “You’re insane.”
“No,” he said, a hint of a grin breaking through. “I’m a doctor. That was a diagnosis and treatment in one.”
Something shifted in her then—the heaviness cracked. By the time he let her up, Eve was flushed, laughing, and glaring at him all at once.
“Fine,” she said, brushing her hair back. “Then take me out tonight. If you think you’re so clever.”
Artimus smirked. “Now that’s the Eve I know.”
That becomes the spark that leads into their spree: Eve’s melancholy jolted loose, Artimus realizing a little chaos therapy works better than quiet sympathy.
The First Night Out
They hit the city like a mismatched storm. Eve, still riding the shock of being smacked out of her gloom, decided she was going to live. She showed up in a glittery black dress that turned heads the moment she walked into the club. Artimus followed in his usual scientist-meets-brooding-poet attire—half professor, half trouble.
From the second they walked in, people noticed. Eve didn’t just enter the room—she owned it.
At the bar, a sleek woman tried to cut in front of her. Eve tapped her on the shoulder.
“You can go first,” Eve said sweetly, then leaned in close. “But I’ll go better.”
Artimus snorted into his drink. “You just threatened her with style.”
Minutes later, Eve was already holding court with a small circle of admirers, telling them an exaggerated story about “escaping a desert cult” that had everyone gasping and laughing. She winked at Artimus across the room as if daring him to keep up.
And then the dancing started.
Eve jumped on the floor with reckless abandon, pulling strangers into spins, dips, and lifts like she’d been training for a Broadway number in secret. People clapped, joined in, and suddenly the whole floor was moving with her rhythm.
Artimus leaned against a pillar, sipping his drink, looking both exasperated and proud. “She was crying into her wine yesterday,” he muttered. “Today she’s building a cult following of her own. Fantastic.”
By the end of the night, Eve had given out three fake phone numbers, kissed a stranger on the cheek, and declared herself the “Queen of Sassoon” (a title she invented mid-spin). Artimus practically had to drag her out.
In the cab ride home, she flopped against him, breathless.
“See?” she said, her voice hoarse from laughter. “I’m alive.”
Artimus shook his head, grinning despite himself. “Alive, insane, and unstoppable. I’ve created a monster.”
Back at the Room
The suite was chaos in silk and lipstick. Bottles of wine and champagne littered the low glass table, half-full glasses teetering dangerously close to the edge. The stereo hummed with some jazzy remix Eve insisted was “revolutionary.”
Eve, sprawled across the couch like she was born to rule it, laughed at something one of the women whispered in her ear. Her hair was loose, dress slightly askew, and her smile wild in that way that meant she was riding the high of being adored.
She sat up suddenly, eyes sweeping the room like she was picking from a menu. Then she crooked her finger at the woman in the red dress — tall, elegant, with eyes like they were already in on a private joke.
“You,” Eve purred. “You’re my favorite tonight.”
The room erupted in laughter and mock protests, but Eve was already pulling Red Dress closer, kissing her with the kind of reckless hunger that made the others look away, blush, or cheer, depending on their own level of intoxication.
In the corner, another woman — bored or jealous, maybe both — lifted her phone. Click. A flashless picture snapped quietly, capturing Eve tangled up with her newest obsession.
Artimus, leaning against the minibar with his drink, noticed. His eyebrow arched. He didn’t say anything, but the look on his face said it all: This will come back to bite her.
Eve, oblivious, broke the kiss just long enough to grin wickedly at the others. “What? You think I came all this way to play chess? Drink up, darlings. Tonight’s about living.”
Two months into her trip with Artimus, Eve collapsed without warning. One moment she was laughing at dinner, the next she was gasping for air, her body convulsing in his arms. The hospital ran every test they could, but nothing explained it.
Whispers circled—Eve had been seen with the hybrid in the red dress before she left. Whatever happened between them, it was clear this wasn’t ordinary illness.
The Guardians intervened quickly, moving her from the failing machines on Earth to the crystal chambers of Gardenia.
Scene: Guardian Hospital – Eve & Cherry
The sterile room hummed with the quiet rhythm of machines. Eve stirred on her bed, her head fuzzy, body heavy. The door cracked open and in slipped Cherry, disguised in confidence she didn’t really feel.
Eve (startled, groggy):
“How did you get in here?”
Cherry (smirking, though her eyes are red):
“I have my ways. Did you forget how smart I am?”
Eve (weak chuckle):
“Smart in some ways… illiterate in others.”
Cherry (steps closer, voice dropping):
“Smart enough to know everything you’re thinking. Just… let me say my piece, and I’ll go.”
She sat at the edge of Eve’s bed, hands clasped like she was holding herself together.
Cherry (pouring out):
“You don’t know what it took to bring you back through that portal. I had to muster every ounce of will I had. Do you know what that does to someone? You don’t live normal afterward—you can’t. Lisa knew I might burn out. And after you left, I did try to take my life.”
Her voice cracked.
Cherry (softer):
“Some angel from the future pulled me back. I never told Lisa what I did, but she knew. She took me under her wing anyway. She showed me I could hold something lasting, and for a while I was. Why didn’t I call you? Because you were my first love, and you could never love just me back. If I heard your voice again, I’d fall all over.”
Eve blinked hard, guilt stinging her chest.
Cherry:
“When Lisa saw you with that hybrid in the red dress—laughing, kissing like the world was yours—she lost it. You don’t see it, but she saved me at the cost of herself. Like she has been doing for you for so long. She stopped doing good for the sake of others. She went back on the root. She’s a mess, Eve.”
Eve (voice rising, breaking):
“Why didn’t she just call me? Why not talk to me? That would’ve saved me from this heartbreak.”
Cherry:
“Because she was already broken. She let you have your way with me that night because it felt like the right thing to do, but inside? She was devastated. She had to watch you want me when she never wanted me. That’s the wound she couldn’t talk through.”
Silence. Machines beeped steadily.
Eve (weakly, desperate):
“Where is she now?”
Cherry (avoiding her eyes at first, then blunt):
“She’s back doing acting.”
Eve (frowning):
“What kind of acting?”
Cherry (hard, almost spitting):
“The sex kind.”
Eve’s face crumples — shock, hurt, disbelief. She tries to sit up, struggling against the tangle of wires.
Eve (hoarse):
“No… no, help me up. I’ve got to stop her.”
Cherry (firm, stepping closer, voice steady):
“She comes home to me every night.”
Eve (staring, raw):
“What do you mean, Cherry?”
Cherry (finally looking her straight in the eyes, unapologetic):
“I mean we’re together. I guess us low-lives deserve each other, right, princess? I’m with her through this — like she was there for me when I almost didn’t make it. You tell that hybrid princess of yours we said hi.”
Cherry turns toward the door, leaving Eve pale and trembling, torn between fury and heartbreak.
Apartment Scene – Eve Confronts Lisa & Cherry
The door bursts open. Eve stumbles inside, pale, breathing ragged, one hand clutching her ribs. Artimus is at her side, steadying her. Brad follows quickly, slamming the door shut behind them and posting himself like a guard.
Eve (voice hoarse but sharp):
“Check for stashes, Artimus. Don’t let her out.”
Artimus moves quickly, pulling open drawers, sweeping under the bed. Brad blocks the hall, arms crossed, daring anyone to try.
In the tangled sheets, Lisa and Cherry jerk upright. Lisa’s eyes widen; Cherry instinctively swings her legs off the bed to get up.
Eve (snapping, pointing):
“Don’t. You’re not going anywhere, Cherry. No more running. And Lisa—you either. Make yourselves comfortable, because this… this is where we’re all staying.”
Her words slice through the room. Eve staggers, steadying herself against the dresser, but her gaze is ice—unyielding, commanding.
Eve (with a bitter smile):
“So you two got acquainted. How’s that going for you?”
Silence. Cherry swallows, eyes darting toward Lisa, then back to Eve. Lisa presses her lips together, fists clenched in the sheets, the weight of the moment pinning her in place.
Eve straightens, though every breath rattles her chest. She forces herself taller, reclaiming the space like it’s hers by birthright.
Eve (quiet, dangerous):
“No more hiding. No more pretending. We face this—together. In this house. Tonight.”
Scene: The Living Room — Lie Detector Setup
The equipment hums quietly. Wires run across the carpet. Artimus checks the monitors while Brad adjusts the sensors. Ling leans casually against the wall, though his eyes are sharp. Lisa and Cherry sit side by side on the couch, tense but pretending not to be. Eve, pale but commanding, takes her place across from them. The atmosphere is thick, almost courtroom-like.
Eve (steady, but cutting):
“So you know how this goes, Lisa. Withdrawals aren’t pretty. You must be scared. It’s not for the faint of heart.”
Cherry (bristling, glaring):
“And why am I being held against my will?”
Everyone turns to Eve. The silence presses in.
Eve (voice tight, but honest):
“Because as much as I’m furious with you… I love you even more.”
The detector’s light flashes green. The air shifts. Cherry’s bravado falters for a moment.
Artimus (quiet, jotting a note):
“That’s a hell of a place to start.”
Eve (turning to Cherry):
“When did this start going south?”
Cherry (swallowing, then blurting):
“I fell hard for you the night you… sexed me up before the last mission.”
The detector glows green. A heavy silence lands over the room.
Ling (breaking it, half-curious, half-teasing):
“What kind of sex are we talking about?”
Eve (measured, calm):
“The kind you give someone you love… because they’re lonely. Because they’re on the edge of walking away, chasing one-night stands instead of real love. I didn’t want her out there lost like that.”
Brad (nodding, pragmatic):
“So you brought it home, tried to anchor her here.”
Lisa (softly, eyes low):
“Everything was happening fast. We both agreed she couldn’t just run. But Cherry was set on leaving—until that night.”
Ling (looking between them):
“And then you stepped in, Eve. That’s what changed things. Just curious—how?”
Eve (pausing, then admitting):
“I gave her myself. My love. My heart. I loved her. And I thought she felt the same. I didn’t know it broke you, Lisa.”
Lisa looks away. The detector stays neutral—no test for her yet.
Ling (leaning forward, voice low):
“So now? Cherry, Lisa—you two. Do you love each other?”
Cherry (blurting before she can stop herself):
“I love both of them. Now.”
The detector flashes green. Lisa exhales hard, steadying herself.
Lisa (quiet, almost ashamed):
“Same.”
Eve stiffens, suspicion clouding her face.
Eve:
“What kind of love? Because if you’re back on the root, Lisa… none of this will mean a damn thing when you’re sober.”
Lisa (defensive, forcing bravado):
“I don’t think good sex fades that fast. What do you think, Cherry?”
Cherry (fidgeting, blurting):
“The lover I had before… she was nice. But Lisa—Lisa connected with my rhythms almost instantly. Like she could read me.”
The detector glows green. It’s true. Lisa shifts uncomfortably, like she doesn’t want credit for something she knows was tangled up in addiction and chaos. Eve’s face hardens, hurt simmering under her skin
Eve (to Lisa, voice hard):
So let me get this right. You helped Cherry into a steady relationship with someone else. Then you fell back on the root—and when you did, you ended up with her yourself.
Lisa (defensive, raw):
I wasn’t planning that, Eve. At first I was just keeping her alive, steering her toward balance. But then you were gone… I broke. And Cherry was there.
Cherry (quiet, but honest):
And I stayed. With her. I didn’t plan it either, but I love her now.
Eve (visibly shaken):
So both of you… while I was honoring the break you asked for, convincing myself I was holding it together for us — this is what was happening?
Lisa (pained, blurting):
I saw you with that hybrid in the red dress, Eve. That gutted me. I couldn’t keep being “the good Lisa” after that. I let myself go, and Cherry… she pulled me through in her way.
Eve (almost breaking):
I should’ve never tried to lead us. Maybe you two can do it better. All I can say is—I thought we were saving her together. Not like this.
Lisa (voice breaking, kneeling by Eve):
I’m sorry. I never meant for it to go this far.
Cherry (hands covering her mouth, panicked):
Oh my god—she should be at the hospital!
Eve (forcing a shaky breath, eyes half-open):
Don’t… let them leave.
(Artimus immediately shifts into action, kneeling beside her with his scanner, his tone calm but urgent.)
Artimus:
Vitals are unstable. She’s on the edge. Let’s get you to the bed, Eve—easy now.
(He and Brad help lift her carefully, carrying her to the nearby bedroom. Eve curls slightly, clutching her stomach as though protecting something deeper, but says nothing.)
Brad (firm, sweeping the room with his eyes):
Okay. Meeting’s over. Nobody’s going anywhere.
Ling (voice soft, crouching near the bed, his gaze steady on Eve):
Eve, we love you. You know that, right?
(He turns his head toward Lisa and Cherry, his tone sharpening just slightly.)
And you two better decide if you’re here to heal or to tear this apart.
Lisa (reaching for Eve’s hand, tears streaming):
I want to be with her. Whatever it takes. I can’t lose you, Eve.
Cherry (choked up, stepping closer to the bed):
I love you, Eve. I do appreciate you.
(Eve lies back, pale and trembling, her hand slipping into Lisa’s, then Cherry’s before she drifts into restless sleep. The room is thick with silence, the kind that forces everyone to confront the mess they’ve made
Day 3
(Cherry is sitting beside Eve on the bed, gently rubbing her stomach. Eve exhales, eyes half-closed in relief.)
Cherry (softly):
There… does that feel better?
Eve (weak smile):
Yes.
Cherry (narrowing her eyes, still rubbing):
You know, you’re not telling me everything about this… curious illness, Eve. That’s your right—but don’t think I’m stupid.
(She leans down and kisses Eve’s stomach tenderly. Eve stiffens slightly, then shifts.)
Eve:
I still feel traumatized and hurt by my romantic experience with you, Cherry. How about a kiss on the cheek instead?
Cherry (pulling back, searching Eve’s face):
Do you see any chance of all three of us being together?
Eve (raspy):
If that’s something you really want me to choose. Then you have to be strong enough to wait.
Cherry (quiet, conflicted):
I had a girlfriend. I could go back to her.
Eve (blinking in surprise):
I’m surprised you chose a girl. I always thought your first choice would be a man.
Cherry (shrugs, voice low):
I guess I wanted to explore it further.
Eve:
And?
Cherry (after a pause, a little raw):
I guess I can love whoever.
Eve (grimacing as she moves):
Poddy break.
(Cherry helps her carefully toward the restroom. Eve leans on her shoulder.)
Eve (with a faint grin despite her struggle):
It might get gnarly with Lisa, you know. But hopefully what Artimus is giving her works… and you don’t have to wipe her butt when she can’t make it to the bathroom.
(Cherry smirks faintly, but her eyes are worried. Once Eve is safe in the restroom, Cherry goes down the hall to Lisa’s room. Lisa is shivering, clammy, lost in her withdrawal haze. Cherry wets a cloth and presses it to Lisa’s forehead, then crawls into bed to hold her, whispering into her ear.)
Cherry (soothingly):
I’m here. You’re doing good. Maybe it’ll be easier this time.
(Meanwhile, Eve is on the phone, her voice thin but firm.)
Eve:
Yes, I want a doctor who knows about this to check on me every three days… Okay, thanks. Bye.
(She sets the phone down, a hand on her stomach, staring at the ceiling. Silent. Determined.)
A Week Later
(Lisa is propped up against pillows, looking tired but steadier. Cherry sits beside her with a cool drink in her hand.)
Lisa (with a shaky exhale):
I think the worst is over.
Cherry (studying her):
So you think you can stay off of it, Lisa?
Lisa (voice low, ashamed):
I’m sorry I put myself—and all of you—through this. I’m not going back.
Cherry (softly):
You know I love you, right?
Lisa (reaching for her hand):
I love you.
Later, in the kitchen.
(Eve is rinsing out a glass, shoulders tight. Cherry leans in the doorway, arms crossed.)
Cherry (casual, but sharp):
Must be nice being pregnant.
Eve (without turning):
Don’t start, Cherry. I’m not ready to share what’s wrong yet.
Cherry (smirking faintly):
I’m startin’ to see how you call all the shots wherever you’re at. Everyone just falls in line. Almost like a cult.
Eve (turning, narrowing her eyes):
You’re still not going anywhere, Cherry. I’ll get someone else to spank you.
Cherry (icy):
Degrading.
Eve (blinking, confused):
What? …Cherry!
(But Cherry is already walking out of the room.)
That evening.
(The apartment feels quieter than usual. Lisa sleeps. Eve rests on the couch, exhausted. Artimus is monitoring vitals. Brad slips in, face grave.)
Eve (sitting up fast, breath ragged):
Where’s Cherry?
Brad (hesitating, then holding out a folded note):
She escaped. It was easy for her—must’ve hoisted herself onto the roof, waited, and took off at the right time. She left this.
(Eve snatches the paper, her hands trembling. She reads aloud, voice cracking.)
Eve (reading):
“Please don’t look for me. I want to be alone. If you try to contact me, I’ll block all of you. You are all good now. Please live your lives.”
(Her throat closes. The paper shakes in her hand. Eve lowers her head, tears slipping down her face. Brad stands helpless, while Artimus sets a steadying hand on her shoulder. The weight of Cherry’s absence fills the room.)
Scene – Eve’s Bedroom
The apartment is quieter now, the tension of Cherry’s departure settling like dust. Brad has reassured everyone he’ll keep tabs without spooking her, but Eve lies pale in her bed, the strain showing. Lisa slips into the room, hesitant at first, then crossing to her.
Eve (flat, almost bitter):
I’m pregnant. With a hybrid. The girl I was with… I didn’t even know a woman could do that. But apparently, they can do anything these days. I don’t know how she did it, or why. I just know I’m keeping it.
(her voice softens)
This baby will spend half their time with me and half with Sapphire. Yes—Sapphire and Rex already want to make the child part of the family over there. He’ll be very protected.
Lisa (quiet, trembling):
Is there a chance… you won’t make it?
Eve (a wry smile):
With the Guardians’ help? No.
(Lisa sits beside her, taking her hand, the first real warmth between them in weeks.)
Lisa:
I’m happy for you. You should be a mother.
Eve (searching Lisa’s eyes):
I want us together. How do you feel about that?
Lisa (tears pressing at the edge):
That’s all I wanted in the first place. Peace. Living our lives together.
Eve:
Just curious—what would you have chosen if Cherry had stayed?
Lisa (honest, vulnerable):
I had this dream we could all fit together somehow. But I never saw myself without you. Not once. And Cherry knew that.
Eve (with a bitter laugh):
I could’ve given both of you your dreams just by agreeing and faking it until I could make it. I almost killed her before by saying no.
Lisa:
No—it’s different now. She sees herself, and all of us, differently.
Eve (turns her head away):
No shit. I’m the villain in that story. If that’s what she needs to believe in order to carve her own way… then I just hope she really is carving one.
(Lisa rests her head against Eve’s shoulder, and for the first time in days, they both allow silence to hold them.)