Scene Draft: “Cherry in Red”
The Guardian club throbbed like a second heart under the city. Lights were low, frequencies vibrating the walls, a place where secrets and seduction blurred.
Brad had already hacked Cherry’s phone with Buzz’s help — he knew she was onto the woman in red. From the alley, his lens caught her: young, cool, dangerous, looking like she owned the room.
He snapped shots, waiting patient in his car outside. Before long, Cherry emerged — not alone. A woman’s hand trailed low on her back, just grazing her ass as she guided her toward the curb. Brad’s camera flashed again. Lisa’s gonna want to see this, he thought grimly.
They slid into Cherry’s self-driving car. Coordinates locked, the vehicle pulled away. Brad’s tracker and camera inside the dash caught everything.
In the back seat, the woman purred, running her hand over Cherry’s thigh.
Woman: “You are the hottest thing I’ve seen in a long time.”
Cherry (leaning in, teasing): “You got plans for me tonight?”
Woman (low, eager): “Oh yes. My mind can’t stop thinking of you.”
They kissed, hot and fast, the woman’s hand sliding under Cherry’s shirt. Cherry let her unbutton, let her taste—until she dropped the line like a blade.
Cherry: “Is this how you tasted Dr. Eve?”
The woman froze. Her eyes flicked up, caught. Cherry smiled cold.
Cherry: “That’s right, bitch. Don’t even think about leaving. Doors are locked. And for fun? This car’s lie-detector wired.”
The woman snarled.
Woman: “Then you’re going to give me the code.”
She lunged. Cherry snapped cuffs on her wrist before the move even landed.
Cherry: “Oh, that must be a total bummer for you.”
Cherry leaned in close enough for her breath to sting.
Cherry: So tell me why Eve kept you under wraps. Tell me what secret’s worth getting spanked for.”
Cherry tilted her head toward the dash cam.
Cherry (louder, sly): “Hear that, Brad?”
Outside – Brad’s POV
Brad’s knuckles tightened on the wheel. He’d been patient, holding the tail, watching the feed. But the second Cherry called him out, he punched the gas.
Brad (to himself): “Dammit, kid.”
His car surged, closing the gap.
Inside, Cherry saw headlights flaring in the rearview. She flipped the console into manual. The car jerked, AI overridden.
Cherry (to her captive): “Hold on tight, sweetheart. Oh wait—you can’t.”
The woman cursed, thrashing against the cuff as Cherry slung the car hard into a side street. Brad followed, siren off, engine howling.
They careened through back alleys, clipping trash bins, sparks flying off brick walls. Brad stayed tight on her bumper.
Brad (gritting his teeth): “Don’t make me run you down, Cherry…”
Cherry yanked the wheel again, cut across an overpass. Brad followed, headlights carving twin arcs through the dark.
At the first opening, Cherry slammed the brakes. Brad shot past, swearing, as Cherry dragged the cuffed woman out of the back seat and onto the street.
The woman stumbled, heels scraping asphalt. Cherry hooked an arm around her and shoved her forward.
Cherry (in her ear, low and hot): “Game’s over. You’re mine now. And you’re gonna tell me everything.”
She hauled her off into the shadows, leaving Brad spinning his wheel to double back.
When Cherry finally gets the woman in red to confess, she calls Evelyn on comms:
Cherry (sharp, on edge):
“Did you know Eve’s been hybrid stock this whole time? You never scanned that deep?”
Evelyn (genuinely stunned):
“…No. That’s not residue, that’s biology. I would’ve told you if I knew.”
Cherry (bitter laugh):
“Then Sapphire and Rex are the only ones who did. And guess what—they decided I didn’t need to know.”
Scene: “Cherry’s Arrest”
Setting: The Gardenia chamber, glowing with its soft resonance. Sapphire, Rex, Evelyn, and a few Guardians are present. A ripple of tension the moment Cherry storms in.
Cherry marches forward, cuffs in hand, dragging the woman in red like a prize. Brad follows reluctantly — he’s sweating, but he knows better than to stop her.
Cherry (projecting, voice cold but clear):
“Citizen’s arrest. She’s been hiding in your shadows. And she’s got something to say. Right here. Right now.”
She shoves the woman forward into the chamber light. The Guardians murmur. The woman smirks, even with the cuffs digging into her wrists.
Woman in red:
“You really want to do this in front of them? You’ll break your precious Eve’s heart.”
Cherry (snaps):
“She’s stronger than you think. And I don’t keep secrets from family.”
The woman laughs, then drops the blade.
Woman:
“Eve was never just human. She carries hybrid blood. That’s why I sought her. Why I could touch her the way I did.”
The chamber goes silent.
Cherry’s eyes cut to Sapphire, her fury sharp as glass.
Cherry (low, trembling with rage):
“You knew. You and Rex knew. And you didn’t tell me. You let me stumble around like a kid while she carried this the whole damn time.”
Sapphire (measured, calm):
“You weren’t ready, Cherry.”
Cherry (explodes):
“Don’t pull that crap with me! You trusted me with missions, lives, rescues—but not this? You think I can’t handle the truth when it’s Eve?”
Eve, pale, staring at the floor, voice breaking:
Eve:
“I didn’t tell anyone because I’m… ashamed. I didn’t want this to be what defined me. I wanted to be me, not some experiment.”
Cherry steps closer to her, anger and desire tangled.
Cherry (soft now, but cutting):
“She knew your blood before I did. And you still told me to wait.”
Scene: Eve & Cherry in the Bedroom
The door shut, muffling the hum of Gardenia’s chamber. For a moment the two of them just stood there, the weight of everything unsaid pressing down.
Eve (voice low, strained):
“Please, Cherry… I can’t breathe in here. Let’s discuss this at home. Are you ready to come back home? You can go in and out as you want. I’m not going to try to control you.”
Sapphire (from the doorway, steady):
“Eve is not well, Cherry. Try to have patience.”
Cherry (clipped):
“I can have patience. Just… let’s talk alone.”
They were led into a side bedroom. The door clicked shut.
Eve turned on her, eyes sharp but tired.
Eve:
“You’re getting sloppy. I saw how you were in the car — letting her kiss you, touch you. You didn’t have to do that. You already had her. And then that chase—you could’ve killed yourself.”
She stepped forward, her hand soft on Cherry’s cheek, trailing down her arm.
Eve (softer, chuckling bitterly):
“I just asked you to wait. Look at me. You think I even feel sexy right now? You love me, you hate me… you think I can handle all this right now? I need you, Cherry. I need your friendship.”
Cherry’s jaw clenched, her eyes flashing.
Cherry:
“Sounds good. But you and Lisa are still sleeping in the same bed. I wasn’t invited, and that’s why I’m not going back home. Not until you ask me — and mean it. Friendship isn’t on the table anymore. That ship sailed when you crossed the line. Own your shit already.”
She spun and stormed out, boots echoing down the hall.
Eve stood frozen for a long breath, then pulled out her phone.
Eve (quietly, into the mic):
“Brad… keep following her.”
Scene: Talk Show Segment
Host (grinning):
“So, Cherry — you’ve been making headlines. We’ve got a clip from your first film before we talk about what’s next. Okay, here it is.”
The studio screen lights up.
The camera zooms in on Cherry’s body in tight clothing, then cuts to two figures on a dark street corner.
Hybrid (on screen): “I like you, I just don’t know what you might do to me.”
Cherry (on screen): “Then find out.”
She barrels in like a tank, kissing her hard, pulling back just enough to tease, then going in again — her hands roaming, lips grazing, her tongue finally exposed, licking across the other girl’s face.
The audience erupts — whistles, cheers, wild applause.
Host (grinning, leaning toward her):
“Wow. You were close with Dr. Eve. What was she like behind closed doors?”
Cherry (smirking straight at the camera):
“Oh, she told me once she wasn’t sexy anymore. I laughed. Because I think she’s the sexiest when she’s not trying.”
The crowd gives a ripple of laughter and applause.
Host (laughing): “That sounds like a confession.”
Cherry (leaning in, eyes glinting): “Maybe it is.”
The audience roars again.
Cutaway – Eve & Lisa at home.
Eve shifts uncomfortably on the couch, cheeks hot.
Eve (mutters): “She didn’t have to say that on television.”
Lisa laughs, amused.
Lisa: “That’s what people love about her. Everything she says feels unrehearsed and honest. It’s her gut talking.”
Eve pulls the blanket tighter over her stomach.
Eve: “Another star in the family. Using her powers for what exactly? Entertain a horny audience? It feels like it’s all directed at me.”
Lisa glances at her sideways, playful.
Lisa: “She spent her birthday alone. Only one person can make her feel right, and there you sit.”
Eve bristles.
Eve: “You know I invited her over on her birthday.”
Lisa (smiling slyly): “You don’t want her in our bed? Look at her.”
Eve swallows, voice low.
Eve: “Like the hybrid said… I’m afraid of what she may do to me.”
Lisa (soft chuckle): “She keeps you honest — and not in control all the time.”
Eve (pacing, restless):
“You think the Guardians are going to stand for her disclosures in the media? She’s risking her life — and everything we built. Every secret, every ounce of trust — she’s tossing it on the air for applause.”
She grabs her phone, determination hardening in her eyes.
Eve: “I’m calling Sapphire tonight. Then tomorrow, I’m going to see Cherry myself.”
Lisa (cautious):
“I can go with you.”
Eve (shaking her head):
“No, Lisa. This is between me and her.”
Lisa (soft, worried):
“I don’t want you all worked up. Not in your condition.”
Eve (pauses, breath heavy but voice steady):
“I know. But what choice do I have? She’s out there painting targets on all of us. And if I don’t stop her… the Guardians will.”
Scene: At Cherry’s Apartment
Eve knocked, heart tight in her chest.
The door swung open — Cherry stood there in short shorts and a tight tee, a new tattoo peeking across her back. She smirked.
Cherry: “Come on in. Have a seat. Can I get you a drink?”
Eve: “Water will be fine.”
Cherry handed her the glass, then pulled up a chair right in front of the couch where Eve sat.
Cherry (suddenly, sharp): “Oh shit.”
Eve (startled): “What?”
Cherry held up a hand, eyes narrowing.
Cherry: “Shhh. I sense him. Something’s not right, Eve. He’s not getting something he needs.”
Eve froze, hand drifting to her stomach.
Eve: “Like what?”
Cherry (shaking her head): “I don’t know, but it’s important. Really important. Let me take you to the Guardian doctor. Sapphire wants to talk to me anyway.”
Eve’s jaw tightened, eyes narrowing.
Eve: “I think I know what about.”
Cherry leaned closer, gaze steady.
Cherry: “Again — I’m not stupid, Eve. You should give me some credit once in a while.”
Evelyn’s Lab
Evelyn stood ready, her instruments already humming.
Evelyn:
“Okay, Eve — you’re going to have to strip.”
Eve’s eyes darted to Cherry, embarrassment washing over her.
Cherry (gentle, steady):
“It’s okay. It’s just me and Evelyn. We’ve seen you before. Let me help.”
She guided Eve out of her clothes with surprising tenderness, folding garments neatly aside. Eve shivered but let her.
Evelyn scanned carefully, the resonance humming deeper around Eve’s womb. Her face paled.
Evelyn (whispers):
“What the hell?”
Eve (voice tight):
“What is it?”
Evelyn (shaking her head):
“The doctors would have seen this. They had to. Which means…”
Cherry (cutting in, furious):
“It’s a setup. Evelyn — we need one doctor who’s actually on our side. Please. Help us.”
She grabbed Eve’s hand.
Cherry: “Come on, Eve — we gotta get the hell out of here, fast.”
Eve gasped, clutching Cherry, her breathing ragged.
Eve: “I trust you.”
Cherry wheeled her quickly out of the lab, scanning the halls like a soldier. She hit the comm, voice sharp.
Cherry: “Sapphire — I need protection. Now. ASAP.”
They burst into the loading bay, Eve slumped in the chair. Two Guardians blocked their path.
Guard: “You’re not cleared to leave.”
Cherry set her jaw, about to snap back when the doors hissed open. Sapphire strode in, calm but lethal.
Sapphire (commanding):
“Stand down… now.”
The Guardians froze, then stepped aside instantly.
Sapphire crossed to them, her voice softer now.
Sapphire:
“Come with me.”
Scene: Sapphire’s Private Quarters
Sapphire’s chamber doors closed behind them with a hiss. Guardians lingered outside, but inside it was quiet, the air heavy with resonance.
Cherry (arms crossed, sharp):
“So, Sapphire… you going to tell us now what’s really going on?”
Sapphire (measured, calm):
“I’ve been trying to protect you, Eve — from all the politics swirling around your child. I thought the doctors were with us. Clearly, I was wrong. Evelyn just told me what she saw.”
Cherry (leaning in, urgent):
“She needs medical help now.”
Sapphire (nodding):
“I agree. We’ll set it up here in my quarters. Let me call them. Eve, go lie down in the bedroom.”
Eve moved slowly, tired, into the soft-lit bedroom. Cherry followed, kneeling to unlace her boots and slide them off.
Eve (softly):
“Thank you. I owe you my life again.”
Cherry (grinning, trying to cut the tension):
“You think maybe I can handle a twenty-five-year-old beauty queen? You know — protect her and all that shit?”
Eve (small smile, teasing back):
“Yes. If she would get off her high horse and let you.”
Cherry (raising an eyebrow, amused):
“Now wouldn’t that be the match of the century? Second only to Lisa, of course.”
Eve (laughing under her breath, then sighing):
“I think I’ve been spanked every day since you went out of my life. Feels like it, anyway. I sure miss you helping me.”
Cherry (leaning closer, voice low):
“I think some of that was me getting you back.”
Eve (looking at her, sincere):
“Forgiven.”
At that moment, two doctors entered with portable equipment, their expressions stiff but controlled.
Doctor 1 (professional tone):
“You’ll need to disrobe for the scan.”
Eve hesitated, eyes flicking to Cherry.
Cherry (gently, with just a trace of mischief):
“May I help you disrobe?”
Eve (quietly, but steady):
“Like I said… I trust you.”
Scene: The Decision
The scan ended with a soft click. One of the doctors cleared his throat.
Doctor 1: “You can put your clothes back on.”
Cherry silently helped Eve dress, buttoning her shirt with careful hands. Eve leaned into her for balance, both of them quiet.
When the doctors and Sapphire returned, their faces were grave. Eve and Cherry exchanged a look, bracing for impact.
Doctor 2 (carefully):
“We recommend you deliver the child now. We can save him. But he’ll need to grow the rest of the way here — using our technology.”
Eve’s breath caught. Cherry’s jaw tightened.
Cherry (snapping to Sapphire):
“How do we know he’ll be safe here?”
Sapphire (steady, reassuring):
“I’ll set it up in my quarters. No one else will touch him. You both can stay here if you like.”
Cherry (hesitant, eyes narrowing):
“What about Lisa?”
Sapphire:
“Just the three of you. That’s all.”
Eve turned her head toward Cherry, searching her eyes.
Eve (softly):
“What do you think?”
Cherry squeezed her hand, decisive.
Cherry:
“We have to. It’s our only chance.”
Eve exhaled, trembling but resolute.
Eve:
“Okay. Let’s do it. I want Cherry with me during the procedure.”
Doctor 2 (nodding briskly):
“Done.”
Scene: The Procedure
The room was dim, lit only by the soft blue glow of Guardian tech. Eve lay on the reclined table, her hand clutched tightly in Cherry’s.
Doctor 1 (calm, precise):
“Vitals steady. Beginning extraction.”
A low hum filled the air. Sapphire stood at the foot of the bed, her presence commanding but quiet, eyes locked on Eve.
Eve winced, breath shuddering.
Eve (to Cherry, voice trembling):
“Don’t let go.”
Cherry (leaning close, whispering):
“Never. I’ve got you.”
The hum deepened, a sphere of light forming over Eve’s womb. The doctors moved with silent efficiency, guiding the resonance field. Slowly — delicately — a small, pulsing form was lifted free, cradled inside the glowing orb.
The tech sealed it instantly, the sphere stabilizing like a cradle suspended in air.
Doctor 2 (relieved):
“He’s safe. Transfer complete.”
Cherry’s grip never loosened. Eve’s eyes brimmed as she turned to her.
Eve (whispering, exhausted):
“Thank you…”
Cherry pressed her forehead lightly to Eve’s.
Cherry (low):
“He’s here. He’s alive. And I’ll guard you both.”
Sapphire motioned, and the orb was carried toward an incubator chamber set up in her quarters.
Sapphire (firm, to both of them):
“He’ll stay here. No one touches him but us.”
Scene: Beside the Newborn
The soft hum of the incubator filled the room. Eve lay against pillows, her breathing finally steady. Cherry stretched out on her stomach beside her, scrolling lazily through her phone, the glow catching the curve of her new tattoo.
Eve reached over and gave her a playful swat.
Eve (teasing, low): “A lot of fans wish they could do that.”
Cherry gasped, then laughed, cheeks warm.
Cherry: “Oh my God. Only you can make me blush like this.”
Eve (commanding softly): “Face me. Let’s talk. Let me look at you.”
Cherry rolled onto her side. Eve’s hand traced the outline of her face, eyes searching.
Eve (serious now): “I’m the jealous type. Ask Lisa. I don’t want people touching what’s mine. Come closer.”
Cherry leaned in, drinking her words like water.
Eve brushed her fingers across Cherry’s lips, lingering.
Eve (whisper): “This…” (she caressed Cherry’s mouth)
“…and this…” (her hand trailed to her chest, brushing over her breast)
“…and this…” (her palm swept across her hip, then down her thighs)
Finally, Eve’s touch settled lower, deliberate, claiming.
Eve (eyes locked on hers): “And this. It’s mine. Not for anyone else.”
Cherry’s breath hitched, her voice trembling but certain.
Cherry: “Yes, ma’am. Only with your permission.”
Eve’s thumb grazed over Cherry’s nipple, teasing, her jealousy surfacing.
Eve: “All those pictures, those videos — showing yourself off. Were you trying to tease me? Drive me mad?”
Cherry gave a sly smile, then melted beneath her hand.
Cherry: “Yes. And did I?”
Eve leaned in, her lips hovering a breath away, her hand still firm between Cherry’s thighs. She waited, savoring the tremble in Cherry’s breath.
Cherry (barely a whisper, pleading): “Please…”
Eve’s restraint broke. She kissed her — deep, hungry, like it was the first time all over again — pouring into Cherry the passion and desire she’d denied for too long.
Scene: After
Some time later, the room was hushed except for Eve’s breathing. She gripped the headboard with both hands, body still alive with aftershocks, while Cherry lay between her legs, fingertips tracing slow circles along the outside of her thighs.
Eve let out a low, satisfied groan.
Eve (teasing, breathless): “You’re dangerous, you know that?”
Cherry chuckled softly against her skin, then stilled, her expression shifting.
Cherry (suddenly sharp): “Wait. Think about it — they must have dampened you and Lisa’s field with some kind of tech. That’s the only way you both wouldn’t have sensed the baby was in trouble. Otherwise you would have known instantly.”
Eve blinked, caught off guard, then pushed herself up on her elbows, still flushed.
Eve: “You’re right… We should use that to our advantage. Figure out the tech behind it. You think Artimus and Buzz could?”
Cherry slid up beside her, eyes alight now, brushing a strand of hair from Eve’s cheek.
Cherry: “If we tell them, yes. They’d find a way to track it. But that’s not the smartest move. If we let the Guardians think the dampening works when it doesn’t? That’s our edge. Only we’d know the truth.”
Eve studied her, the shift from lover to strategist making her chest tighten.
Eve (quietly): “I guess the real question is… is there anyone tech-savvy we can actually trust with this?”
The incubator hummed softly beside them, their newborn glowing steady in the cradle. Eve and Cherry exchanged a long look, knowing the next move would decide not just who they trusted — but who they exposed.
Scene: Morning
Eve sat at the kitchen table in a robe, hair damp from her shower, spreading jelly across toast.
Cherry padded in wearing only a t-shirt and panties, opening the fridge with a sleepy yawn.
Eve (softly): “Come here. Give me a kiss.”
Cherry leaned down, brushed her lips against Eve’s. Eve gave her a lingering stroke on the backside, then a playful pat.
Eve: “I love you.”
Cherry smiled, then went back to rummaging in the fridge.
Cherry (grinning): “I love you too.”
She pulled out fruit and yogurt, setting up the blender for a smoothie.
Eve (casual, but watching her): “So… what did you mean on that talk show about learning so much at nineteen?”
Cherry glanced over her shoulder with a mischievous smile.
Cherry: “I said that to get a rise out of you. Guess it worked.”
The blender whirred to life.
Eve (spreading jelly, half-smiling): “You learned a lot from Lisa, am I right?”
Cherry froze mid-motion, then turned, eyebrow arched.
Cherry: “Is this a safe road to go down, Eve? I don’t kiss and tell.”
She smirked, then softened.
Cherry: “How far did you go with Miss Red Dress Chick? …Sorry, I shouldn’t bring that up. But if you want to talk about it, I won’t judge. God, you know my past — how could I judge anyone?”
Eve set the knife down, sighing.
Eve: “It’s fine. I just don’t feel great about myself these days. My body after carrying a hybrid… being used.”
Cherry crossed the kitchen, wrapping her arms around her from behind.
Cherry (earnest): “For me, last night was… I can’t imagine anything better. The real, raw you is what I love. And I feel you love me in the same way.”
Eve turned in her chair and hugged her tight, resting her cheek against Cherry’s.
Just then, Sapphire entered in loose morning wear, calm as ever.
Sapphire (smiling lightly): “Well, I’m glad you two made up. And that you’re making yourselves at home.”
A moment later Rex appeared in the doorway. Eve quickly shifted, pulling Cherry onto her lap so her panties weren’t visible.
Eve (straightening, voice firm): “I’m glad you’re both here. We should talk.”
Scene: The Strategy Talk
Eve and Cherry laid out their theory — that Guardian tech had blocked Lisa from sensing the baby, and could be used the same way on them.
Rex (nodding slowly):
“Yes, we have tech like that. But we don’t use it unless it’s absolutely necessary. It goes against higher laws.”
Eve (leaning forward):
“You mean… laws from beings like the Oracle?”
Sapphire (calm, matter-of-fact):
“Yes. Exactly. Interference in a free-will planet is not allowed. At least, not openly.”
Cherry (smirking, but pointed):
“But the Oracle is allowing this indiscretion for a reason. You can bank on that.” (glances at Eve) “Probably because she already knows we’re going to do something about it. It’s funny, knowing what we’re already gonna do before we do it.”
Eve (half-curious, half-teasing):
“And what are we gonna do, Cherry?”
Sapphire (cutting in, assured):
“We’re going to find a way through their blocks — without telling them. Cherry, don’t you realize you already have?”
Cherry sat back, blinking, remembering.
Cherry: “Yeah… I felt something come over me yesterday. But I don’t understand how I got through it.”
Rex (shrugging, matter-of-fact):
“You’re human. You don’t have to understand how. You just need to know that you did.”
Sapphire (firm):
“If Lisa knew there was a block, she’d cut through it too.”
Eve frowned, her voice quieter.
Eve: “And what about me?”
Sapphire: “Ask the Oracle how.”
Rex (leaning back, practical):
“So… we act dumb. Pretend the dampening works, no?”
Cherry (grinning, can’t help herself):
“Oh, Eve and Lisa are experts at that.”
Rex (smiling): “We know. What about you?”
Cherry hesitated, then sighed.
Cherry: “Damn. Does that mean I can’t be a smart ass?”
Eve (grinning, nudges her):
“You know how to be a smart ass while coming off like a dumb ass.”
Cherry blinked, then laughed.
Cherry: “Ohhh… she’s right.”
Rex (smiling faintly):
“Glad we got that settled.”
Scene: Eve & the Oracle
Eve (Meditating):
“Alright, Oracle. I give up. If I’m deciding how this all unfolds, I must hate myself — my body, any dignity I had left. But I’m glad Cherry and me are finally good.”
Oracle (dry):
“This started when you chose not to take a regular vacation before getting back into mission work.”
Eve (snorting):
“I get it. So I got the vacation from hell. Being finger-inseminated by the woman in red — probably a first, am I right?”
Oracle (arching a brow):
“You think the worlds aren’t entertained by that one? You’re right — it’s a first. The child was being born one way or another.”
Eve (throwing her hands up):
“Yeah, yeah, I hear you. From your perspective it was a planned pregnancy. But is it me — or someone else — that has to make everything hard and hilarious at the same time?”
Oracle (chuckling):
“Ah yes. Hilarious belongs to joy. That’s you. But you’re still a hard nut to crack. Ask Cherry.”
Eve (rolling her eyes):
“Like she’s saint joy with no hard edges. Give me a fucking break.”
Oracle (smirking):
“You already had one. Nice going.”
Eve (leaning in, serious):
“So what about this dumb-down business? Am I dumbed down?”
Oracle (matter-of-fact):
“You broke through to talk to me.”
Eve (confused):
“How did I do that?”
Oracle:
“Strong emotion. Intention. A belief you can. That’s all you need on Earth to connect to Source at any time. That’s the setup. And as you call them — the shit-stormer wannabes? That’s all they are. Wannabes.”
Eve (muttering):
“But we were dumbed down and didn’t even know it.”
Oracle (steady, firm):
“You three queens made things difficult for yourselves when you planned a mission you weren’t emotionally ready for. I tried to tell you, but you weren’t listening.”
Eve (quiet, almost pleading):
“Am I ready for this one, Oracle?”
Oracle (with finality):
“Yes. But after this is over? Plan another vacation, why don’t you. One without desperate feelings involved.”
Scene: Sapphire Slips
Eve was pacing in Sapphire’s quarters, arms crossed. Sapphire leaned against the desk, flipping through reports when she said it too casually:
Sapphire:
“Cherry won’t be gone long. The High Council requested her help on a case. She agreed.”
Eve froze mid-step.
Eve (slow, dangerous):
“…She what?”
Sapphire’s eyes flicked up, realizing too late.
Sapphire:
“You didn’t know? She hasn’t told you?”
Eve’s jaw tightened, her hands curling into fists.
Eve (clipped, seething):
“No. She didn’t tell me.”
Chapter: No Secrets
Scene: Eve & Cherry – The Confrontation
Cherry slipped into their quarters later that night, tossing her jacket over a chair. She froze when she saw Eve waiting on the couch, eyes sharp.
Eve stood slowly, closing the distance between them, her voice sharp.
Eve:
“You didn’t think to mention it to me first?”
Cherry (defensive, softening):
“I was going to. It’s not a big deal. This is what I do—private investigating.”
Eve (hurt beneath it):
“No, Cherry. This isn’t just what you do. This is the Council. And you decided for both of us.”
Cherry’s smirk faded. She lowered her eyes, then lifted them again, guilt in her voice.
Cherry:
“I wasn’t trying to shut you out, Eve.”
Eve exhaled hard, pulling out a chair. Her robe fell around her as she sat, eyes still sharp.
Eve:
“I wish life was still playful. That I could just spank you like before. Those days are gone. Now it blurs with sex. But back then—you took them seriously, didn’t you?”
Cherry (thoughtful):
“Yeah. Every swat felt like judgment. My pride bruised, my heart pounding, wondering what I meant to you. Half of me hated it, half clung to it. Because at least it meant you saw me.”
Eve stepped closer, eyes searching.
Eve (soft):
“Is that what you really felt?”
Cherry (raw, steady):
“At first it scared me. But then I stopped hearing judgment—I just heard love. Even when you were mad. Your hand reminded me I was yours.”
Eve (quiet, almost to herself):
“It was unorthodox. I went beyond friendship when I spanked you. I decided. You didn’t start it.”
Cherry (shaking her head):
“No, but I didn’t stop it either. I wanted it. Don’t let me off the hook.”
Eve (conflicted):
“I could say I was the adult. You were nineteen, so smart. But emotionally—what age were you?”
Cherry (small laugh, honest):
“Twelve. I acted sharp, but inside I was still that kid, wanting someone strong enough to give me boundaries. That’s why when you spanked me, I dropped the act. And you didn’t turn away.”
Eve (voice breaking):
“I knew you needed it. I gave it because I loved you. I saw myself in you.”
Cherry (trembling, sure):
“You weren’t just punishing me. You gave me what I couldn’t give myself—proof I mattered. That’s why it made me feel yours.”
Eve brushed her cheek, then her eyes sharpened again.
Eve:
“But things are different now. You were impulsive taking that mission. Tell me the truth—did you think of us when you said yes?”
Cherry (lifting her chin):
“Honestly? No. I wanted to prove myself. Show I wasn’t just your shadow. But the second I said yes, I knew what it would do to you.”
Eve (piercing):
“So if I spank you now—how would you feel?”
Cherry (after a beat):
“Two things. Loved—because it means you haven’t given up on me. And guilty—because I didn’t put us first. I’d need that reminder.”
Eve sat back, calm but firm.
Eve:
“It’s weird. I almost can’t end this without spanking you. But next time? It won’t be my hand. It’ll be time apart. Do you understand?”
Cherry (nodding):
“Yes, ma’am. I understand.”
Eve (patting her lap):
“Over my knee. Ten. Pants down, keep your panties on. Count them—end each with: No secrets.”
Cherry obeyed. The first smack cracked the silence.
Cherry (gasping):
“One. No secrets.”
Another. Sharper.
Cherry (voice tight):
“Two. No secrets.”
By the seventh, her voice wavered; by the tenth, tears streaked her cheeks.
Cherry (hoarse, clear):
“Ten. No secrets.”
Eve rested her palm on her bottom, leaning close.
Eve (low, certain):
“It’s done. You’re forgiven. But hear me—me and Lisa, we’ve always created our own way. Different. Unorthodox. But ours. I won’t be dampened. Not by them. Not by fear.”
Cherry turned her head, voice thick with tears but fierce.
Cherry:
“Then let’s live our way. No secrets. No fear.”
Eve’s Reflection
Later, as Cherry slept against her, Eve stared at the ceiling, her hand absently stroking her hair.
It wasn’t about control this time. It was closure. One last reminder she mattered, even when she failed. Part of me already misses it — the certainty, the proof. But next time it won’t be my hand. It’ll be distance. For her sake. For mine.
Cherry’s Reflection
Cherry lay still, cheek pressed against Eve. The sting lingered, but deeper than that was the ache in her chest.
It still makes me feel hers. Not like property, but belonging. But she said it won’t happen again. That scares me more than her hand ever did. Maybe it’s time to grow up. To show her I can hold myself. No secrets. No fear.
Scene: Phone Call
Later, Eve sat on the edge of her bed, phone in hand. Her voice was steady but weary when Lisa picked up.
Eve:
“Cherry may need a break. She’s restless. I had to spank her yesterday ”
Lisa (deadpan, then curious):
“For what?”
Eve:
“She accepted a PI mission from the High Council without telling me. And I caught her before she confessed.”
Lisa (winces):
“Eek. Did she feel remorseful?”
Eve:
“Yes. But if she does this again, she’s going to live with you for a while.”
Lisa (half-laugh, half-groan):
“Oh, like co-parenting? Except she’s twenty. And this is insane.”
Eve (defensive):
“You know what’s crazier? A High Council trusting a twenty-year-old with dangerous missions.”
Lisa (dry):
“Well, eighteen-year-olds go to war. But they don’t get spanked.”
Eve (sighing, half-amused):
“I’ll defer to you. You tell me what’s right. Maybe I’m clouded.”
Lisa (serious now):
“Then let’s ask the group.”
Scene: Group Call
Lisa:
“Guys, I need your honest opinion. Cherry took a PI mission without telling Eve. Eve spanked her for it. Thoughts?”
Brad and Ling looked at each other like deer in headlights.
Ling:
“…Did she like it?”
Lisa (grinning):
“You hear that, Eve? Did she like it?”
Eve (dry):
“She was remorseful. Tearful. She was grateful it was my hand and not me grounding her from me.
Brad (fumbling):
“So… she cried because?”
Ling (smiling, like a professor):
“Because Eve was spanking her inner child. Letting her know who’s in charge.”
Lisa:
“In a loving way.”
Ling:
“Of course. Eve’s one big love bomb. Honestly, I wish she’d spank me. Wait—didn’t she spank you, babe?”
Brad (squirming):
“Yes. And… I was turned on.”
Eve (sharply):
“Brad, you’re just now telling me this?”
Brad:
“I’m out now. Back then I kept quiet — Lisa was making you spank me. I didn’t want her in trouble.”
Lisa (mock-offended):
“Doesn’t anyone get turned on when I spank them?”
Brad:
“Not me.”
Ling:
“Me neither.”
Eve (laughing):
“I do, babe!”
They all laughed before Lisa reeled it back.
Lisa:
“So what’s the verdict? Should Eve keep spanking?”
Ling (hand raised):
“Yes. Yes. Keep spanking, honey. You’re a natural.”
Brad (more measured):
“It grounds her. But… she’s twenty. She’s smart. It should be her choice.”
Lisa (serious now):
“But we all know Cherry is also, you know…”
Ling (blurting):
“Psycho?”
Brad (defending):
“She’s different. Intuitive, brilliant. She probably does need guidance, but in the end she’ll choose for herself. And if Eve makes her choose between love and independence—that’s not real growth.”
The group went quiet, Brad’s words sinking in. Lisa switched off speaker.
Lisa (gently):
“It’s time to stop spanking her inner child. She has to be her own parent now.”
Eve (after a pause):
“Okay. I get it. I’ll talk to her.”
Scene: After the Call
Lisa left. Brad and Ling stayed behind, the air heavier.
Ling:
“Damn. You just blew up Cherry’s world. You don’t even care?”
Brad (blinking):
“What do you mean?”
Ling:
“You just took her spankings away. How many joys does she have? You pulled the rug out. What if Eve tells her what you said… well, you already made her mad chasing her around like some stunt double.
And now you’re suddenly the expert?”
Brad exhaled, his shoulders sagging.
Brad (quiet, bitter laugh):
“So I’m a hypocrite. Good point. I could’ve killed her myself. Who am I to say anything?”
Ling studied him, surprised at how quickly Brad folded. The edge in his eyes softened.
Scene: After the Phone Call
Eve crossed the room to Cherry and pulled her into a hug. Her hand slipped down, caressing her bottom as she whispered close to her ear.
Eve (softly):
“I know that was a hard lesson I delivered to your backside yesterday. Consider it your last one — like we said.”
Cherry (half-smiling, leaning into her):
“I know it was hard. But I didn’t complain. I tried not to squirm. Don’t I get kudos for that?”
Eve caught her chin between her fingers, tilting her face up with a knowing look.
Eve (firm, affectionate):
“And don’t you try to get back at Mommy for that hard spanking. I know you, Cherry.”
Cherry (grinning):
“I’ll try to resist.”
Eve brushed her cheek, her voice softening but still steady.
Eve:
“What I need from you is simple. Love yourself the way I love you. Face your own inner children. Carry the weight of what we’re building here. Can you do that, honey?”
Cherry (quiet, then playful):
“Yes. I’ll be like the husband, and you can be my wifey.”
Eve chuckled, pinching her cheek with affection.
Eve:
“I’d actually like that. You’re young, but I believe you’ve got it in you.”
She drew her closer, her voice low but firm as she added:
Eve:
“And don’t forget… we have a baby now.”
Cherry:
Don’t worry wifey. I change diapers too.
Scene: Sapphire’s Quarters – The Summons
The air in Sapphire’s private quarters feels heavier than usual. Eve sits curled on the couch, Cherry next to her, leg bouncing, arms crossed like a sulking teenager. Rex leans against the wall, arms folded, while Sapphire paces in front of them, her face unusually tight.
Eve (exhaling, half-joking):
“So… we’re being summoned to the principal’s office.”
Cherry (rolling her eyes):
“Yeah. Only this time the principal’s the High Council. Can’t wait to see what our report card says.”
Sapphire (stopping, serious):
“This isn’t a joke. The Guardian doctors detected anomalies in the baby’s resonance signature. And word spread faster than I could contain it. Now the Council wants answers.”
Rex (low, steady):
“Not just answers. They’ll want control. They’ll argue this is bigger than any of us.”
Eve stiffens, pulling Cherry’s hand into hers instinctively.
Eve:
“They can’t take him. He’s mine.”
Sapphire (softening, but firm):
“No one is saying otherwise. But you need to understand — what the doctors are seeing… it’s unprecedented. His frequency isn’t just Guardian. It isn’t just human. It’s both, at the same time, shifting. That kind of resonance doesn’t fit in any of their categories.”
Cherry (cutting in):
“Which makes him dangerous. Or valuable. Depending on who’s talking in that chamber.”
Rex (grim nod):
“She’s right. Some will say he’s hope. Others will say he’s a threat. Either way, the moment you step into that meeting, you’re not just a mother. You’re standing in as his advocate, his shield.”
Eve presses her palm to her forehead, trying to steady her breathing. Cherry rubs her back, then mutters:
Cherry:
“So we’re walking into a room where half of them want to parade him around as their miracle, and the other half would rather he just… not exist. Wonderful.”
Eve (quiet, determined):
“Then we make them see him as more than a pawn. As my son.”
Sapphire (meeting her gaze):
“You’ll need to be composed, Eve. Show them strength, not desperation. Desperation makes them smell blood.”
Cherry (snapping):
“And if they do smell blood?”
Rex (dark, blunt):
“Then we remind them — this child isn’t theirs to dissect, parade, or destroy. He’s family. And the four of us stand as one.”
Silence hangs for a beat. Eve squeezes Cherry’s hand tighter, almost painfully. Cherry squeezes back, her eyes sparking with both fear and defiance.
Scene: Eve and the Oracle
Eve (quiet, determined):
“I know this child has a destiny already agreed upon. I’m taking your wisdom seriously. You see that, right? Help me with this meeting.”
Oracle:
“This meeting will be a parable — of what is, and what is to come. Seeing parables of how the future unfolds is another level of sight. Another level of spirit.”
Eve (frowning):
“What is this, some new power you’re giving me?”
Oracle:
“You are the mother. You are intricately connected to this child. It has been passed to you. Not a power you wield, but a perspective you perceive. More accurate than anything you’ve seen thus far.”
Eve (uneasy, glancing down at her hands):
“Does Cherry know about this?”
Oracle:
“Not as I am telling you now. But yes. She is aware of what this child reverberates. They share a connection. Cherry made sure of that.”
Eve (rubbing her temples):
“Jeezus. This is getting weird.”
Oracle (dry, unblinking):
“The man they once called Jesus spoke in parables. Its a thing. Get used to it.”
Scene: The Council Chamber
The Council chamber hummed with low tension, each faction poised like a blade. Eve sat flanked by Cherry, Sapphire, and Rex, her hands tight in her lap.
Councilor 1 (stern):
“The child’s resonance is dual, unstable. This alone justifies intervention. For his safety — and ours.”
Councilor 2 (with disdain):
“Intervention? Containment, you mean. If we allow him to remain outside Council oversight, we court disaster.”
Councilor 3 (gentle, cautious):
“Or opportunity. A bridge child might unite where we’ve failed.”
Eve’s jaw clenched. The voices swirled, their words weapons, but her attention shifted as one of the Council’s data-slates flickered out. A faint crackle, a soft sigh of static — then silence. Dead. The owner tapped it, shook it, muttered in frustration, and finally slid it aside like trash. The debate pressed on as if nothing had happened. But Eve felt the pull in her gut. She turned, met Cherry’s eyes. Cherry had felt it too.
Councilor 4 (cutting in):
“Then it’s settled. We petition to move the child into Council supervision. The parents may remain nearby, but Gardenia cannot risk an anomaly unmonitored.”
Eve gripped Cherry’s hand, steadying herself, saying nothing. But inside, she’d already heard the answer — not in their words, but in the dead slate lying forgotten on the polished table.
Later – Sapphire’s Quarters
Cherry (blurting suddenly):
“Sapphire. What do they do with data-slates that stop working? The ones that die like that?”
Sapphire glanced up from her reports, unbothered.
Sapphire:
“They’re shipped to our field office on Earth. Repurposed, recycled, rebuilt for other uses. Why?”
Cherry turned slowly to Eve. The same knowing sat heavy between them. Eve’s lips parted, breath shallow. She whispered:
Eve:
“Not here. Not for Gardenia. Earth.”
Cherry (nodding, voice hushed):
“That’s where his purpose unfolds.”
Neither Sapphire nor Rex pressed. The parable had already spoken.
Scene: Sapphire’s Quarters – The Restriction
Sapphire (measured, almost apologetic):
“The Council made it clear. Only two of you may attend in Gardenia at once. They said it’s for balance.”
Eve (frowning):
“Balance? Or control?”
Rex (flat):
“Both. The truth is, your trio together is too strong. They’re resisting already about the child. If the three of you stood united in that chamber, they’d fold. And they know it.”
Cherry (snorting):
“So the big bad High Council is basically saying, ‘You’re too hot to handle’?”
Sapphire (cracking the faintest smile):
“Something like that. They won’t risk all three of you amplifying each other. It would shift the decision before they even debated.”
Eve (quiet, processing):
“So Lisa stays on Earth. They keep us divided.”
Cherry (bristling):
“Yeah, but divided only on paper.”
She glances at Eve, then at Sapphire. The truth hangs there: Gardenia can’t block what’s already woven between the three of them.
Eve (hesitant, searching):
“If me or Cherry decide to go back to Earth for a visit… will we be safe to return?”
Sapphire (pauses, weighing her words):
“Safe? Nothing about this is safe. But possible? Yes. For now. The Council won’t risk closing the bridge completely — not with so much attention on your child. They’ll allow you passage. They need to be seen as reasonable.”
She steps closer, lowering her voice.
Sapphire:
“But make no mistake, Eve. Every crossing is a test. They will measure your resonance, your intent, your loyalty. If they suspect you’re building influence outside their reach…”
She shakes her head, gaze steady.
Sapphire:
“…then one day, the door may not open again. Or worse — it will open, and you’ll step into a trap.”
Her eyes soften, a rare flicker of warmth.
Sapphire:
“If you must go, take precautions. Make sure the Council believes you’ll always return to Gardenia. Even if you never intend to.”
Scene: Atrium Confrontation
Cherry (storming in):
“I found out today—they released the Woman in Red.”
Sapphire (grim):
“They cannot legally kill her here on Gardenia. They sent her back to Earth.”
Cherry (eyes flashing):
“They’re going to kill her?”
Eve (tight, cold):
“She did violate me, Cherry.”
Cherry (snapping):
“Hello? That’s why I dragged her ass here!”
Sapphire (measured):
“You wanted information.”
Cherry (clipped):
“And I’m going to get it.”
Eve (decisive):
“Since they’ve got my baby right now—I’m going with you.”
Sapphire (warning, softer):
“Be careful. It’s not safe. I wish you would wait.”
Cherry (already moving):
“Let’s go.”
The two of them walked toward the main atrium, heads turning as Guardians recognized them by fame alone. But before they could step through the doors, two Guardians blocked the path, hands out.
Cherry (snapping):
“What the hell?”
Eve (sharp, demanding):
“What is this?”
Eve froze as she watched one Guardian pat Cherry down, his hands sliding lower until they reached her backside. His touch lingered. A deliberate tactic. Eve’s eyes blazed.
Eve (furious):
“Stop right there. Keep your fucking hands off my girlfriend. You want to start a war right here? Let’s do it.”
The Guardians tried to push past her, but Cherry spun back, tense. Eve stepped between them, grabbing the Guardian by the front of his uniform and forcing eye contact.
Eve (low, deadly calm):
“Look in my eyes and tell me I’m not serious.”
The Guardian smirked, then stepped back, signaling to his partner. They backed off with mocking smiles. Eve didn’t flinch.
Cherry (gritting her teeth):
“Come on. Let’s get out of here.”
Scene: After the Atrium Confrontation
Back in the safety of their room, Cherry paced like a caged animal. Her fists clenched and unclenched, her breath sharp with leftover adrenaline.
Cherry (muttering):
“I should’ve knocked his teeth out. Touching me like that—like I wouldn’t notice, like I couldn’t stop him—”
Eve caught her wrist and pulled her close, pressing her body flush against Cherry’s back. She leaned to her ear, whispering.
Eve (low):
“Shhh…”
Her arms wrapped around her. One hand pressed firmly at the small of Cherry’s back, steadying her, while the other slipped beneath the waist of her panties, her fingers moving with slow, deliberate rhythm. It wasn’t rushed—it was measured, like Eve was playing a melody, listening to the music of Cherry’s body. Every shift of her touch pulled a sound from Cherry—gasp, sigh, moan—as if Eve’s hand had found the strings of an instrument only she could play.
Eve (whispering, steady):
“No one touches you but me. Remember. Say it.”
Cherry’s head tilted back against her shoulder, breath uneven.
Cherry (breathless):
“No one but you, Eve.”
Eve adjusted her rhythm, strokes rising and falling, pausing just to hear the catch in Cherry’s breath before starting again. Her other hand traced across Cherry’s backside, firm and possessive, keeping her anchored in place.
The pace built until Cherry’s knees trembled, her voice breaking into gasps that turned into sharp moans. Eve pressed her cheek against Cherry’s temple, listening like a musician to the crescendo she was drawing out.
And when the wave broke—when Cherry shuddered and her body went slack in Eve’s arms—Eve turned her, pulled her in, and kissed her hard. It wasn’t just passion; it was a vow.
Eve (murmuring against her lips):
“No one touches you but me.”
Eve (stroking Cherry’s hair, softer now):
“Why don’t you take a shower, calm down a little more.”
She gave her a small smile, adding with a wink:
Eve:
“Change your underwear while you’re at it.”
Cherry gave a shaky laugh through the last of her tears, and Eve kissed her forehead before pulling back just enough to meet her eyes.
Eve (serious again):
“I’m calling Sapphire. We need to talk about all this.”
Scene: The Safe Room — After the Call
Sapphire (measured):
“So, Eve… you were ahead of Cherry and they decided to pat her down. That’s significant. They’re talking about you as if you’re an impulsive hothead. And today they told me they’ll only allow Lisa here if she works in the holodeck — acting, creating, like before. People want her back.”
Eve (snapping):
“I can’t believe they’re treating Cherry like this. She’s the reason you’re even here, Sapphire. And the last mission? That was her plan. Where’s the respect? It’s… it’s weird.”
Cherry (darkly, pacing):
“They want me to leave. They’re setting me up. They know I’ll go to Earth and find the Lady in Red.”
Sapphire (nodding, calm):
“That could be right. Smart thinking, Cherry.”
Cherry (eyes flashing):
“Then fine. They’re setting a trap, but so can I.”
Eve (groaning, rubbing her temples):
“I know that look. Bottom line — she’s not safe here.”
Sapphire (turning to Eve, sharp):
“And what you did out there — that was gutsy, but reckless.”
Eve (cold, defiant):
“They can kiss my ass. Some lines you don’t cross without war. I made myself clear. And I’ll tell the others.”
Cherry (grinning, eyes locked on Eve):
“Don’t play with her. She’ll take it to the deadly conclusion. I know her. And so will I.”
Sapphire (measured, careful):
“This isn’t all Guardians, Eve. It’s a faction. A small group pushing this.”
Eve (ice in her voice):
“Well, that small faction is on my list. Just like the lizards who came at me wrong. And look what happened to them.”
Her eyes darkened, her jaw tight.
Eve (lower, deadly calm):
“Violating me is one thing. Violating my family? That’s another.”
The room went quiet. Even Sapphire, steady as ever, didn’t try to argue. Cherry stood a little taller, fire in her eyes, as if feeding on Eve’s fury.
Scene: The Bed
Eve lay on her stomach, her cheek pressed into the pillow. Cherry’s hand drifted lower, smoothing over the small of her back, then giving her butt a playful swat.
Eve (yelping, half-laughing):
“Cherry!”
Cherry grinned, leaning down to kiss the curve of her butt, then traced her lips slowly along her hip.
Cherry (murmuring against her skin):
“How could I ever forget this?”
Eve rolled onto her back, eyes sparking, blouse falling open. Her breast rose and fell with each breath. Cherry hovered above her, brushing Eve’s lip with her own, then kissing her mouth fully before trailing lower — her lips teasing across her collarbone, her hand stroking the inside of Eve’s thighs.
Eve (breathless, whispering):
“Oh really? You think you can just leave me for Lisa and still have this?”
Cherry smiled, bold now, her mouth brushing dangerously close to Eve’s nipple before glancing up with a wicked look.
Cherry:
“Careful, or I’ll remind you why I’m not going anywhere tonight.”
Eve pulled her up into another kiss, fierce and hungry, holding her tight at the hips.
Eve:
“It’s good you’re getting out of here.”
Cherry (shaking her head):
“I don’t want you to be alone here.”
Eve (hesitating, then confessing):
“Sapphire says they’ll let Lisa come — if she acts and creates in the holodeck.”
Cherry
Thank God.
Eve:
“Do you know how much I’m going to miss you? I’ll want check-ins every day. And if Lisa does come here… you won’t have her either.”
Cherry (shrugging, but her eyes heavy):
“That’s okay.”
Eve (narrowing her eyes):
“Cherry, I don’t like that look.”
Cherry (steadying herself):
“It’s probably best we don’t check in too much. They could be listening. I’ll make us a code before I leave, and we’ll text instead.”
Cherry (firm, instructive):
“Don’t leave Sapphire’s home. Stay here the whole time.”
Eve (quietly):
“I hear you. I will. But tell me what you’re really up to.”
Cherry (standing, jaw set):
“I’m going to fall into their trap — so they can fall into mine.”
Later that night, Eve scribbled numbers on a scrap of paper, brow furrowed in focus. She handed it to Cherry.
Cherry (eyes widening, shocked):
“Omg… that’s right. You figured it out. Okay — but let’s see if you can actually write me something with that code.”
Eve (grinning):
“Give it here.”
Five minutes later, Cherry’s phone buzzed. She read:
“I’m smarter than you think, brat!”
Cherry (laughing, shaking her head):
“This is the first time I can see your high IQ clearly. God, am I falling in love with you all over again?”
Eve (smiling, serious beneath it):
“Artimus and I will be the only ones who can contact you this way. Lisa, Brad, and Ling will have to go through him.”
Cherry (humbled):
“Thanks for trusting me to hold my weight.
Eve (gently):
“Spanking you emotionally… I fell in love with your inner child when she dared to let me love her that way. Now I’m falling in love with the adult you — the one I can trust, not control. But only you can make that real for me.”
Cherry (half-smile):
“So is it about somehow pulling a win out of my ass?”
Eve (chuckling):
“Funny, that’s how I always felt. Like I had to pull a win out of mine just to keep up. But no. I just want your best. And for you to move from a place of knowing you’re loved — no matter what. Because I’ve proved that to you.”
Cherry (suddenly serious):
“Okay, drumroll… This code isn’t for us. It’s for them. Everything I send you through it will be false — bait to lead the Guardians where I want them.”
Eve (eyes wide):
“Omg, honey, that’s brilliant. So you’re sure they’ll crack it?”
Cherry (smirking):
“I hope so.”
Eve (concerned):
“Then how will we really talk?”
Cherry (sly):
“Through Lisa. Whatever she creates in the holodeck will stream back to Earth. Hidden in her art will be the real messages.”
Eve (shaking her head, amazed):
“Cherry… you’re stupendous.”
Cherry:
“This is just me being the regular me. But no secrets, right? What I hate about ‘no secrets’ is… if anyone downloaded your memories, they’d see everything.”
Eve (cold, protective):
“Then I need tech to erase them. Quickly.”
Cherry (teasing, eyes bright):
“So, wifey… what do I get for earning my keep?”
Eve rose, undoing her blouse slowly, giving Cherry that unmistakable look of ownership.
Eve (low, steady):
“Scoot your little bottom to the end of the bed.”
Cherry obeyed. Eve’s hands glided down, caressing her thighs with tenderness and possession.
Eve (whispering):
“I love you, Cherry. You’re tattooed on my heart and soul.”
They lingered, the moment heavy with love and fear of parting.
Eve (voice cracking):
“Somehow… find your way back to me.”
Cherry (meeting her eyes, steady):
“If there’s a way, I’ll find it.”
Narration Transition
Cherry left the next morning with Sapphire. No fanfare, no goodbye party — just a quick embrace at the gates, Eve holding on a second too long before letting her go. The shuttle’s doors closed, and with them the feeling that the air had gone thinner in Gardenia.
On Earth, Lisa, Brad, and Ling were waiting. They saw Cherry first — stepping off beside Sapphire, a little bruised, a little restless, but still carrying that fire in her eyes. Lisa pulled her into a hug before she could say a word, Brad clapping her on the back, Ling grinning like he’d just been handed chaos on a silver platter. For the first time in days, Cherry laughed.
Back in Gardenia, Eve stood in Sapphire’s quarters, rocking gently on her heels. The child — her child — had grown enough that the doctors finally placed him in her arms. He was small, warm, and impossibly real. Eve pressed her cheek to his head, whispering words no one else could hear. For a moment, everything else fell away — the Council, the politics, the dampening fields. All that remained was the weight of her son, and the promise Cherry made to her: If there’s a way, I’ll find it.
Scene: Buzz’s Safe House – Planning the Decoy
The air was thick in Buzz’s underground safe house, the table littered with scribbled notes and half-drained mugs. Cherry leaned forward, her eyes sharp.
Artimus:
“So Cherry’s convinced powerful people in the Guardians want her to meet the Lady in Red. She’ll text Eve about it in code — one she expects the Guardians to crack.”
Lisa (nodding):
“Which means the Guardians will think they’re ahead of her. Cherry tells them she’s picking the Lady in Red up… but it’s a decoy. Meanwhile, we take the real one somewhere safe.”
Cherry (smirking):
“Great. So we need a decoy Lady in Red. Any suggestions?”
Brad (grinning, too quick):
“Lisa. She could pull it off. Fiery, commanding, impossible to ignore.”
Lisa (rolling her eyes):
“Oh, brilliant. The second they see me, the Guardians will know the trio’s in on it. Try again.”
Ling (raising his hand with mock solemnity):
“What about me? I’d look amazing in red.”
The table groaned in laughter, Lisa shaking her head while Buzz muttered something about bad ideas.
Brad (serious again):
“Look — real talk. They could end up killing the decoy. I don’t like that risk.”
The laughter died down. Cherry’s face hardened.
Cherry:
“Yeah… I don’t like it either.”
Brad (hesitant):
“What about… a robot?”
Cherry (arching a brow):
“They make female robots that accurate?”
Artimus (matter-of-fact):
“Oh, they do. Trust me.”
Ling (grinning wickedly):
“I hear they’ll do anything.”
Buzz (snorting):
“And I hear they cost a fortune.”
Ling leaned back in his chair, eyes flicking toward Lisa with mischief.
Ling:
“Are you guys dampened or what? Bet me Lisa can make two phone calls—three, tops—and have one here by tomorrow.”
Lisa and Cherry both cracked smiles. Buzz crossed his arms, unimpressed.
Buzz:
“And if you lose, what do we get?”
Ling (instantly):
“If I win, Cherry has to give me the juicy highlights of her time with Eve. Inquiring minds want details.”
Lisa barked a laugh, shaking her head.
Lisa:
“And if you lose? Say it takes 4 calls instead of two?”
Ling (grinning, elbowing Brad):
“Then Brad and I get spanked.”
Cherry (rolling her eyes but laughing):
“Sounds like a win–win for you two.”
Brad (hands up, chuckling):
“Okay, okay. It’s a good plan. Let’s just get the robot first. Cherry, you ever kissed a robot before? Think Eve will allow it?”
Lisa (deadpan, cutting him off):
“We were hoping you two would teach the robot how.
Ling (snickering):
“She’s gonna be a diva. Sorry, Cherry — she might remind you of someone.”
Lisa shot him a side-eye sharp enough to cut steel, then slapped her palms on the table.
Lisa (firm, decisive):
“Alright. Enough screwing around. We get the robot. We sell the hand-off. And when the Guardians chase their Lady in Red, we’ll already be gone with the real one.”
The room fell into a rare silence, the humor fading under the weight of what they were planning.
Scene: Safe House – The Unwanted Witness
Lisa (soft)
“It doesn’t seem fair that we don’t have more time together before I leave. And after what you went through… I don’t presume you’re ready for anything anyway.”
Lisa (pausing, meeting her eyes):
“But I do know what it’s like to be grabbed without consent. You remember that actress — the one who kissed me and grabbed my ass in front of the paparazzi? Couldn’t fight back, cameras everywhere. I felt used. Small.”
Cherry (softening, a flicker of recognition):
“Yeah… I remember.”
The silence stretched. Lisa brushed Cherry’s knuckles.
Lisa (offering softly):
“I can just hold you tonight, if you want. I love you too, you know.”
Cherry (half-smile, sad but fiery):
“Sorry, Lisa. You know me. That’s not going to be enough.”
Lisa (smiling despite herself):
“I know.”
Before Lisa could say more, a mechanical voice chimed in from the corner. Both women yelped and spun toward the android, its eyes glowing faintly.
Android (pleasant tone):
“We can make this party a threesome. Would you like to see my menu?”
Lisa clutched her chest, half in shock, half laughing.
“I didn’t realize she was turned on.”
Cherry (deadpan, teasing):
“You’re always turning people on, Lisa.”
Lisa rolled her eyes, but the humor cracked the tension. Cherry leaned closer, eyes softening, and pressed her lips to Lisa’s. Tender at first, then deeper, as if daring the android to witness.
THE MISSION
In the official log — the one Eve would eventually read — Cherry wrote in her delicate cipher:
“We were limited in our surveillance. Two sets of eyes. Movement restricted.”
It looked small, fragile, almost desperate. A girl and a few allies poking at shadows.
But the truth was layered under silence. The “two sets of eyes” were actually twenty: operatives staggered across rooftops, parked cars, abandoned shops. Micro-cameras stitched into street lamps. A drone that hovered like a fly.
And then the inversion — not just watching the woman in red, but photographing the Guardians who were watching Cherry watching the woman. Circles inside circles.
The Entry
The Cherry double stepped out first — an operative styled with her cut, her stride, her tilt of the head. At her side walked the android, in a neutral skin disguise: an unremarkable woman in a gray coat. Nothing unusual, nothing red.
Together they crossed the street and entered the front door. Cameras in the Guardian vans clicked. To every lens on the block, it looked exactly as planned: Cherry going in to meet her target.
The Switch Inside
The android paused in the dim hallway, sensors humming. Its synthetic skin rippled, colors shifting, bones reshaping until a red coat shimmered into place, hair falling across its shoulders, face sharpening into the exact likeness of the Woman in Red.
The Cherry double gave a tight nod. “Showtime.”
The Exit
Minutes later, the front door creaked open again. Out came Cherry — or rather, her double — with the android now skinned as the Woman in Red.
From the vans, Guardians stirred. Drones whirred overhead, locking onto their quarry. Engines turned over. They had what they wanted: Cherry retrieving the woman.
The decoys walked calmly down the steps and into the street, vanishing into the convoy of eyes waiting for them.
The Real Extraction
At the same moment, Brad slipped through the back of the house. His boots made no sound on the warped floorboards.
The real Woman in Red was waiting in the shadowed bedroom, pale and patient, as though she’d known this moment was coming.
“Brad,” she whispered, recognizing him without surprise.
“Let’s go,” he said, voice low. “They’re chasing ghosts.”
She followed silently. Together they slipped out the back, through alleys, and into the waiting unmarked car.
The Diversion
Blocks away, the Guardians swarmed. The Cherry double and the android were pushed into a van, their cover swallowed by scanners. The android’s skin shimmered, red coat flickering, face collapsing back into blank neutrality.
But by then, the real Woman in Red was already gone — carried through the city’s veins toward Buzz’s safe house.
Scene: Sapphire and Rex’s Home – Gardenia
Lisa stepped quietly through the door, the soft hum of Guardian tech in the walls surrounding her. On the couch, Eve was waiting — shoulders tense, eyes fixed on the entrance. The moment she saw Lisa, she stood. Lisa offered a simple greeting.
Lisa:
“Hi.”
Eve crossed the room in three quick strides and wrapped her arms around her. She held Lisa fiercely, breath catching as though she’d been holding it for weeks. Leaning close, her whisper trembled with need.
Eve (whispering into her ear):
“Make love to me.”
Two hours later, they lay together in the dim bedroom, the world hushed. Eve’s head rested on Lisa’s shoulder, her voice softer now, more grounded.
Eve:
“It’s almost like I find myself again, just… relaxing into us.”
Lisa (smiling faintly):
“I love the way you relax. Let’s always relax. Even when it’s intense.”
Eve (quiet laugh):
“It’s intense because it’s like being reminded you were starving — and finally being allowed to feed.”
Lisa (teasing, eyebrow raised):
“Sounds so vampire-esque.”
Eve (chuckling, swatting her lightly):
“Don’t get in your head about turning this into a vampire story or I’ll have to redirect you.”
Lisa (grinning):
“Oh, is that how we’re saying it now?”
They shared a long pause. Eve’s hand lingered on Lisa’s arm, her voice shifting to a deeper note.
Eve:
“How is she?”
Lisa (exhaling):
“She’s Cherry. Since we don’t believe in torture, she’s determined to win the Lady in Red over — get all the information she can.”
Eve (sitting up slightly, frowning):
“You mean she’s going to befriend the woman who violated me?”
Lisa (gentle but firm):
“She’ll do what it takes to get back to you. You know that.”
Eve (shaking her head):
“She embarrassed a faction of the Guardians — made them look stupid. That’s dangerous. I’m afraid for you, Lisa. I stay here where it’s safe. But you—out there in the holodeck—you’ve got such a huge following. Politically, giving them what they want is wise… but if you step out of line once—” she swallowed “—you saw what happened to Cherry.”
Lisa (sighing):
“So what, do I just get used to being patted down? You know they made me strip and scan when I got here.”
Eve (touching her cheek, protective):
“Oh, my poor baby. Nobody touched you, did they?”
Lisa:
“No. But I hope next time they just use their tech instead of putting hands on me.”
Eve (serious now):
“You need to be prepared. Cherry wasn’t. How are you going to feel if they touch your bottom? That’s what they did to her. It was a tactic — just to intimidate her.”
Lisa (groaning, dramatic but sincere):
“Omg. The things I go through just to be with my girlfriend. I’ll figure out how to deal with it — like anything else, I guess.”
Scene: The Undisclosed Room – Revelation
Lady in Red (smirking):
“The infamous Cherry. Eve told me about you. That’s how I knew she’d be a good mother.”
Cherry (leans back, feigning casual, eyes sharp):
“Oh yeah? What exactly did she say? Careful now — I’ll know if you’re making it up.”
Lady in Red (measured):
“She said all she ever tried to do with you was love you. Save your life. Nurture you. That she was willing to go extraordinary places because of the extraordinary circumstances you were in. And because of your youth. All of you. Too young for the weight you carried.”
Brad shifts uncomfortably; Ling smirks at the jab about “youth.” Cherry doesn’t flinch. Instead, she leans forward slowly, voice steady and controlled.
Cherry:
“Interesting. You’re trying to make me see her words through you. But here’s the problem — I already know that’s how Eve loves. That’s her strength. And her weakness.”
The Lady in Red blinks, caught off guard. Cherry presses, flipping the dynamic.
Cherry (quiet, piercing):
“She feels violated by you. And she was. But maybe you were trapped the same way we’ve been — forced into extraordinary choices. God knows I’ve hurt her, even while she tried to love me. That’s youth, sure. But here’s the difference — she never let go of me.”
Cherry leans back, folding her arms, cool as stone. Her voice drops like a hammer.
Cherry:
“Now she has a child that came from you. Which means you don’t just owe her the truth — you owe me. Because I’m the one who decides what happens to you next.”
Scene: The Undisclosed Room – Cherry & Brad’s Play
Cherry leaned back in her chair, letting the silence stretch. The Lady in Red stared at her, chin high, trying to read what came next. Cherry glanced sideways at Brad, who was standing casually by the wall, scrolling on his slate like he was half-bored.
Cherry (calm, deliberate):
“You know, this isn’t just between you and me. That’s Brad. You probably don’t know him.”
The Lady in Red’s eyes flicked over, unimpressed. Brad grinned without looking up.
Cherry:
“He’s an influencer. One of the best. If I let him, he could spin your story across a hundred channels before you finish your next sentence.”
Brad (finally looking up, voice smooth, practiced):
“And trust me, the Guardians watch those channels. They care what people think — even if they pretend they don’t. You say something here, and I can make it gospel by morning. Or I can make you look like the villain you’re pretending not to be.”
The Lady in Red blinked, her composure cracking for just a beat. Cherry leaned in, voice dropping to a razor’s edge.
Cherry:
“So here’s the choice. You give me the truth — about why Eve’s child matters — and Brad makes sure the world hears your side first. You stonewall me? Then we feed them a version where you don’t exist anymore. And the Guardians finish what they started.”
Brad slipped his slate into his pocket, his grin never fading.
Brad (soft, confident):
“She’s not bluffing. And I’m very, very good at my job.”
The Lady in Red exhaled sharply, her eyes darting between them. For the first time, her arrogance faltered.
Lady in Red (hoarse, almost reluctant):
“…Fine. You want to know? I’ll tell you. That child isn’t just a hybrid. He’s proof the Guardians don’t control the story anymore. He’s living evidence that their laws have already been broken.”
Cherry’s smile was small, cold, and victorious. She glanced at Brad, then back at the Lady in Red.
Cherry (leaning back, suddenly lighter in tone):
“Now we’re getting somewhere. By the way — what should I call you? ‘The Lady in Red’ feels like a tabloid headline.”
The woman squinted at her, caught off guard by the change of subject.
Cherry (smirking):
“What’s your name? Favorite food? Come on, you’ve been stuck between worlds — I’m sure you’re hungry.”
Brad chuckled low from the wall, catching on instantly.
Brad:
“She’s good, isn’t she? One second razor blades, the next second a dinner invitation.”
The Lady in Red hesitated, lips parting just slightly, like the idea of food — the simple, human act of eating — was harder to resist than Cherry’s threats.
Jan (quietly, almost trembling):
“My name is Jan. What can you promise I’ll get if I tell you, right now, what’s really going on?”
Cherry (steady, no hesitation):
“If you do that—and answer all our questions—you can leave.”
Jan (shaking her head):
“I want something else.”
Cherry (narrowing her eyes):
“What’s that?”
Jan (after a long pause, voice raw):
“Friendship.”
Cherry (leaning forward, cold but honest):
“That’s earned. You haven’t earned it.”
Jan’s face fell, but she pressed on, her voice cracking with longing.
Jan:
“I just want to be free. Free like you. Free to live the way I think is right. Not be controlled.”
Cherry studied her for a long beat, then softened just slightly—enough to offer something real, but not everything.
Cherry (firm, resolute):
“Trust me, whoever’s responsible for this won’t operate anymore—not if I have a say. I’ll call on you when I need to. Stay true, and we’ll have your back. But friendship?” she shook her head “That comes later. If it comes at all.”
Jan (after a long silence, staring at her hands):
“They don’t want your friend’s baby for himself. They don’t even need to take him. They want what he represents.”
Cherry leaned forward, eyes sharp, while Brad and Ling exchanged quick glances behind her.
Jan (voice low, deliberate):
“The Guardians want to take over the holodeck. They want a way to feel human emotions without being consumed by them. The baby is their prototype — the first of a generation born and raised for that purpose. Holodeck babies. Children engineered to create and perform, so the Guardians can experience love, fear, joy, heartbreak… all of it, but safely. Without risk. Without chaos.”
The room went still. Even Buzz, stone-faced at the door, shifted uneasily.
Cherry (flat, controlled):
“So they’ll let Eve raise him. Let Lisa teach him to perform. They’ll just sit back and wait until he can feed their machine.”
Jan (nodding, almost whispering):
“Yes. They believe it’s inevitable. And when it works, they’ll replicate him. Hundreds more. A whole generation of children born only for the holodeck.”
Cherry sat back, folding her arms. A slow, grim smile curved her lips — not of amusement, but of someone who saw the trap clearly now.
Cherry:
“Then they don’t know us at all. Because if they think Eve’s child is going to serve them, they’re already finished.”
Cherry (eyes narrowing, steady):
“What happens once they know I know? What happens to you?”
Jan (hesitating, her voice faltering):
“They’ll come for me. Not right away — first they’ll try to discredit you. But once they see I’ve talked, I’m a liability. I won’t last long.”
Cherry (leaning forward, her tone cold and decisive):
“Then you’d better pray I keep you useful. Because if they’re going to erase you, the only thing that keeps you breathing is whether I decide you’re worth the risk.”
Jan looked up, startled by the bluntness. Brad shifted uncomfortably in the corner, but Cherry didn’t break eye contact.
Cherry (lower, almost whispering):
“You wanted friendship? Start with survival. Earn it. Stay aligned with me, and maybe you’ll have both.”