We got back with all the fanfare. Buzz was ecstatic—he actually cried, and we all had to comfort him. The 5D soil we brought back — well, it is definitely underway .. He threw us a huge party, said the whole thing was firewalled out the wazoo, complete with secret code words just to get in. We partied our asses off and then settled back into our new home.
We never expected it would be so hard.
The food, the colors, the furniture-It all felt like a dumbed-down, sad version of reality.
Like some ChatGPT group member once said:
“Life feels like a washed-out copy after you touch the real thing.”
Funny how we never thought we’d remember that line…
and yet here we were, living it.
I guess Bashar — or whoever it was we loved up there — probably knew this would happen.
Maybe they tried to warn us.
Maybe they knew we’d have to grieve coming back.
Because where were they now?
Where were the guides, the connection, the feeling?
We couldn’t seem to reach them anymore.
Eve started to back off again, which was frustrating as hell. It had been two months without real intimacy. No sex, no fire, just space..
Maybe it was because our frequency was too low.
Maybe it was up to us to change it.
We decided to ask our only friend we could trust for help and he came through
Buzz told us about a missing girl named Cherry. He knew the parents—apparently, she’d been seen by Kimley Labs for a sleep issue. She was eighteen. One week later, she disappeared.
Buzz and Artimus did manage to design a way to go out undetected so we took the case. .
Eve and I went to investigate Cherry’s room at her parents’ house. Artimus and Buzz followed her digital trail from before she went missing, tracing back through fragments of her last known movements.
They entered the daughter’s room quietly, the late afternoon sun slanting through the blinds.
Eve stood in the middle of the room, arms crossed, taking it all in. Lisa leaned against the dresser casually, watching her.
Eve (half-teasing):
“Let me know if you see a bird flying around”
Lisa (grinning):
“Ha ha. Very funny.”
Lisa (flipping through a yearbook): Looks like she was the smartest geek in school.
She picks up a thin paperback and tosses it to Eve.
Lisa: Here.
*Eve reaches for it but misses—thud.
Eve: Jeezus, Lisa. Have some respect.
She kneels, picking up the book gently.
Eve: We’ll take every book she wrote, so keep looking.
Lisa: Okay… let’s just breathe. See if anything is calling us.”
Eve wrinkled her nose, a little out of her depth.
Eve (half-mumbling):
“Maybe we should’ve brought a crystal ball.”
Eve moved with sharp focus now, her fingers gliding across Cherry’s belongings like they were fragile pieces of evidence—or memory. She paused when she found a handwritten poem, folded neatly on the desk. Her eyes scanned the words—a meditation on love transcending time.
Then something beyond happened.
Eve: Ow…
She pressed her fingers to her temple.
Eve: Are you hearing that?
Lisa: (alert) No—what’s going on?
Eve: There’s a buzz. And… I feel hurt. Not just pain—emotionally hurt.
Lisa: You’re picking up on her. Either she’s trying to communicate… or you’re tuning into her energy signature. It’s strong.
Eve. I can’t take much more.
In a sudden scramble, they bent to grab the rest of Cherry’s books. —arms full of pages and a lingering echo of whatever just passed through. They both bolted for the door, bumping into each other in a hurry like a low-budget ghost hunting team
Scene: When We Got Home That Night
When we got home that night, I don’t know—
I guess I just wanted to be with Eve.
I initiated contact.
I was starting to feel alive again, and she seemed motivated—throwing herself into learning everything she could about the missing persons case.
The buzzing that had plagued her had stopped.
I saw my opportunity.
Artimus was out doing… who knows what, like always.
To be honest, I’d tried so many times before to be intimate with Eve, and each time I was shot down—dead in the water.
It felt like a second death, layered on top of the first death: the death of enjoying food, of color, and life here.
But now things were different—weren’t they?
Surely, she’d at least take pity on me.
I saw her reaching for something in the kitchen. I hurried to grab it for her—but somehow, we clunked heads.
Lisa (laughing nervously):
“Oh, I’m sorry. Here—let me rub it.”
I rubbed her head, softly at first.
Then my hands wandered, almost without thinking, following the lines of her body.
That’s when she stiffened—
And slowly moved away.
Eve (quiet, almost apologetic):
“I’ve got to take a shower, Lisa.”
Lisa (half-laughing, half-pleading):
“Can I join you?”
Eve (avoiding my eyes):
“I’m not in the mood, Lisa.”
Lisa (hurt):
“When are you ever in the mood?”
Eve (turning, voice sharpening):
“I’m not doing this anymore, Lisa.
I used to just be whatever anyone needed me to be.
I was good at it.
Is that what you want? You want me to turn on for you like a light switch?”
Lisa (soft, devastated):
“No.
I don’t want that.
It just sucks… not to be wanted.
It’s been a while, and I’m the only one initiating anything.
But that’s okay.”
(beat)
“If we ever come together again… it’ll be you initiating.”
Eve (exhaling hard):
“Dramatic. But okay, Lisa.”
The words stung more than I let on.
While Eve went to take her shower, I quietly grabbed my keys and slipped out the door.
Scene: Meanwhile, Back at the House
Artimus had already come back.
He and Eve were in the thick of talking—animated, excited about the missing persons case.
The energy between them was light, playful.
They moved to the bedroom still chatting, still laughing.
Eve (grinning):
“So what kind of mischief are you getting yourself into these days? Blond or brunette?”
Artimus (laughing):
“Ha ha, very funny.
But now that you bring it up… I was wondering if we could bring someone else into this salad.”
Eve (raising an eyebrow, teasing):
“Hmmm.
I wouldn’t mind watching someone else mix your salad.
In fact, I think I’d find that fascinating.”
They were joking—low-brow humor, sure—but it had a current under it.
A charge.
As they kept talking, Artimus casually caressed her—running his hands along her back as she lay on her stomach across the bed.
Artimus (grinning):
“Ouch. That sounds like it might hurt.”
And that’s when I came back.
I’d only run to the store for a few things.
I wasn’t expecting… this.
I froze in the doorway—watching them, hearing them, feeling the intimacy of it hit me like a blow to the chest.
I backed up, heart pounding, making enough noise that they might have heard me—
But I didn’t care.
I turned and left—deciding, right then, that I needed a drink.
The bar was the only place I could think to go.
Scene: A Bar I’d Never Been To
It was a bar I had never been to before.
A bar the missing teenager had once been seen in.
Maybe she had come here with a fake ID—feeling exactly like I did now.
Like a nothing.
Wishing it was all over.
No—spirituality didn’t stop me from ending up here, not when my emotions took over.
Funny, though.
I recognized someone at the bar but couldn’t place him.
Feeling reckless—maybe even a little suicidal—I decided, what the hell, and started a conversation with him.
He bought me a hard liquor drink.
Real hard stuff.
The kind that burned all the way down.
Lisa (half-drunk, asking):
“Hey… have you seen or known the girl we’re looking for?”
The man shrugged casually.
Man:
“Yeah.
I’ve seen her in here a few times.”
Something about him tugged at my mind.
I kept trying to place where I’d seen him before.
But with every drink, I got drunker, my head spinning harder.
I stumbled to the bathroom.
Splashed cold water on my face.
Tried to breathe.
And then it hit me.
I knew him.
He was one of the people who helped me back to my dorm at college—
Back then, when everything had gone sideways.
My heart slammed against my ribs.
What is he doing here?
Hundreds of miles away.
Connected to the girl we’re looking for.
I realized—
If he’s connected to Bob,
he’s probably here for us.
He found me.
And worse, I was drunk and vulnerable.
A terrible thought crossed my mind—
one Eve would probably be proud of.
If he thought I was helpless…
maybe I could use that.
Maybe I could move him away from everyone else.
I went outside where he was standing, smoking, his phone in hand.
Lisa (putting on a drunken, sensual act, leaning close):
“Hey, man…” (touching his chest lightly)
“If I faint, can you… take me to your place?”
The man smirked.
Man:
“Name’s Bill.
If that’s what you want, lady, sure thing.”
I pretended to slump against him—out cold.
He turned to the others at the bar.
Bill:
“I got her.
I’ll put her in a cab.”
I felt him half-carry, half-drag me to the curb.
He shoved me into the backseat of a cab.
Bill:
“Where do you live? We’ll get you there.”
Lisa (slurring, acting wasted):
“Ohhh… I live back at college town… like, twenty miles from there…”
Bill blinked.
Bill:
“That’s about 500 miles, sweetheart.”
Lisa (laughing sloppily):
“Oh, that? I ran away from my two friends.
They hurt my feelings.
But I wanna go back, Bill.
I miss them.”
Bill narrowed his eyes, suspicious but still greedy for the opportunity.
Bill:
“Then why were you asking about that missing teenager?”
Lisa (acting dramatically sad):
“Because she’s a missing person, Bill.
I thought it would make me feel better to help someone, you know?”
He hesitated, then grunted and pulled out his phone.
He punched in the coordinates—five hundred miles away.
When he asked for the exact address,
I slumped further, pretending to pass out completely.
Out of the corner of my eye,
I heard him on the phone, speaking low:
Bill (on phone):
“Yeah, I got her.
Yeah.
Heading out now.
I’ll let you know when we’re closer.”
Scene: Missing
Artimus and Eve lounged around the house, reading quietly, the glow of a single lamp softening the corners of the room.
Eve (glancing up, casual at first):
“Where’s Lisa?”
Artimus (without looking up from his book):
“I don’t know.
Where did she say she was going?”
Eve frowned, tapping her phone screen.
No answer. She tried again. Still nothing.
Eve (worried now):
“She didn’t say.
And she’s not picking up.”
Artimus closed his book slowly, sensing the shift.
Artimus:
“That’s not like her.”
Eve (rising, pacing):
“Maybe she’s with Buzz.”
She called him. A few tense minutes later, Buzz picked up.
Buzz (over the line):
“I’ll check the bar, hang tight.”
Eve hung up and paced harder.
Artimus (shrugging, trying to stay calm):
“She’s probably just chilling at the bar.
Trying to blow off some steam.”
A few minutes later, Eve’s phone buzzed again.
Buzz’s voice was tight.
Buzz:
“She’s not here.
Nobody’s seen her tonight.”
Eve’s stomach dropped.
Eve (very worried, almost to herself):
“The stores are closed.
Why isn’t she here?”
Artimus stood up, now fully alert.
Artimus:
“Okay. Maybe she fainted.
I’ll check the house.”
They split up, searching every room, every corner, every closet.
Artimus (calling out):
“Hey—I found something.”
He held up a small snack—a bag of something Lisa must have dropped.
Artimus:
“Okay. She came home.
She dropped this.
But where the hell is she?”
Eve stared at the bag, piecing it together.
Eve (voice breaking):
“She must’ve seen us.”
Artimus (blankly):
“Seen what?”
Eve sank onto the couch, stunned—like the air had been knocked out of her.
Eve (whispering):
“She must have seen us… on the bed.
You touching me.”
Artimus (a little defensive):
“Okay—so what?”
But Eve didn’t respond.
For once, she had no quick fix, no plan, no shield.
Eve (quietly, gut-wrenchingly):
“I hurt her.
I acted like a real bitch.
And now she’s gone.”
Artimus sat down across from her, finally getting it.
Artimus (softly):
“What do you mean?”
Eve (tears gathering):
“She just…
She just wanted to touch me.
And I shoved her away.
I wasn’t nice about it.”
She wiped at her face, furious at herself.
Eve:
“And then she must’ve seen us, you touching me—and thought…
God, who knows what she thought.”
There was a long, hollow silence.
Then Eve stood—sudden, determined.
Eve (firm):
“We have to find her.
I have to fix this.”
Artimus (hesitating):
“Where would she even go?
She’s a big girl.
She’ll come back.”
Eve (crying now, grabbing her coat):
“I don’t care.
I have to find her.
I want to find her.”
She looked at Artimus, fierce through her tears.
Eve:
“Call Buzz for help.
Now.”
Scene: The Bar
Artimus, Buzz, and Eve pulled up to the bar Lisa had been seen at, tires screeching slightly as they braked. They jumped out, practically storming inside.
The bartender, a heavyset man wiping down the counter, looked up warily.
Buzz stepped forward first, trying to keep things cool.
Buzz:
“Hey, man—uh, we’re looking for a girl.
Short, dark hair, leather jacket?
You see her?”
The bartender nodded immediately.
Bartender (gruff):
“Yeah, that’s her.
She came in a few hours ago.
Had a few drinks.
Got drunk, actually.
Was talkin’ to some guy.”
Artimus slammed his palm against the counter.
Artimus (voice rising, furious):
“What guy?!”
Buzz (throwing a hand out to calm him):
“Hey, dude—calm down.
It’s gonna be fine.”
But it wasn’t fine.
Both Artimus and Eve leaned in at once—like a dam finally breaking.
Artimus and Eve (yelling together):
“WHO’S THE FUCKING GUY?! WHAT GUY?!”
The bartender stepped back, blinking fast.
Bartender:
“I don’t know! Some dude.
Said he’d get her home safe.
Tall. Blond. Baseball cap.
Kinda shady if you ask me.”
Eve staggered back a step, hand over her mouth. Her heart hammered in her chest.
Eve (to herself, almost a whisper):
“Oh my God…
if anything happens to her…”
She looked at Artimus—wide-eyed, raw.
Eve (choking out his name):
“Artimus…”
For a second, time froze between them—grief, guilt, terror all crashing into one moment.
Artimus clenched his fists so hard his knuckles went white.
Buzz was already on the phone, barking orders to someone.
Eve wiped her eyes, steeling herself.
No more waiting.
They had to find Lisa.
Now.
Buzz:
“Some of the bar patrons said she was asking around about the missing girl. Maybe that’s all it was. Maybe she was just trying to help… and got drunk… and climbed into the wrong cab.”
Eve:
(angrily through tears)
“Yeah. Got drunk… and got into a car with a total psycho. Who knows what shape she’ll be in when we find her.”
(Artimus and Eve fall into each other’s arms, holding tight, not saying anything more.)
Scene: The Crash
Lisa had no plan to escape—at least not yet.
But her mind was working overtime as the road stretched out before them.
Just talk to him, she thought.
Buy time.
She stirred, pretending to wake up groggily.
Lisa:
“Hey… what time is it? Where are we?”
Bill glanced over, cautious.
Bill:
“Heading back to your place, but I still need the address.”
Lisa:
“I told you. Near the college.”
Bill:
“Yeah? Then give me a street name.”
Lisa (more alert now, calm but sharp):
“I’m not giving you my address. I don’t even know you. I mean, thanks for tossing me in a cab and all—but why are you here?”
Bill stayed quiet for a beat—thinking.
Bill:
“I live out there too. Remember?”
Lisa (raising an eyebrow):
“Yeah. That was a weird night. The light language, that prophet guy. I’m a fainter anyway—and I was enrolled at the college. But what’s your excuse?”
Bill (flat):
“I happened to be out.
Some people asked for help. I helped.”
Lisa (dry, nodding slowly):
“Sure. Small world, huh? What are the odds we’d run into each other again… 500 miles away?”
Bill (eyes narrowing):
“What are you getting at?”
Lisa (leaning slightly forward):
“What do you think I’m getting at?
Ben must be pissed. All those lost bytes. That data destroyed. How many years did it take to build that operation?”
Bill (cutting her off, voice hard):
“You’re going to tell me where they are—one way or another.”
Lisa (dead serious):
“You better be careful. I’m precious cargo to you and Ben.”
Bill (cold):
“I wouldn’t be too sure about that.”
Lisa blinked once, and then—
Lisa:
“Oh. Okay then.”
In one sharp move, she lunged across the seat and grabbed the steering wheel.
The car swerved hard—off the road—crashing into the brush with a violent jolt.
Smoke. Silence.
Lisa coughed but was otherwise fine.
Bill slumped forward—out cold, or close to it.
She didn’t hesitate.
She scrambled out, heart racing, adrenaline firing.
Get Ben off the trail. Mission accomplished. Now find Cherry
She walked.
And ran.
——————————————————
Buzz:
“Okay, so the cab left here about three hours ago. It looks like it stopped near St. Charles—right off the freeway. The police are heading there now to check it out.”
Artimus:
(frowning, tense)
“Why would it just stop on the freeway?”
Buzz:
(quietly, cautiously)
“Okay—don’t freak out—but they said the cab’s radio and computer both went dead. That usually means… there was an accident.”
Eve:
(hand on her chest, breathing hard)
“Oh my God… her butt is in so much trouble when she gets home.”
(She starts crying.)
Artimus:
(steadying her)
“Hey—the police will find her. She’s tough. She’s gonna be okay. What else can we do right now?”
—————————————————
Lisa slammed her palm into her forehead.
“Idiot!” she hissed, spinning back toward the wreck.
She sprinted to the car, yanked open the door, and started tearing through Bill’s pockets. Wallet, keys, loose change — all shoved into a battered gym bag.
She rifled the glove compartment like a thief on a timer.
That’s when she saw it — a folder marked “Kimly Research.”
Wedged between a crumpled soda cup and a map.
Lisa’s fingers froze, then ripped it out.
One glance — and her stomach turned.
Lisa (inner voice, sharp):
“I knew it. Kimly. Of course.”
She flipped through the pages, her heart punching against her ribs.
Lisa (realizing):
“They didn’t just study that girl.
They tuned her.
Matched her frequency to Eve’s.”
Lisa crouched low behind the car, breathing hard.
Lisa (thoughts speeding up):
“They made the girl buzz inside Eve’s head.
Made Eve chase her.
They weren’t trying to hide her.
They were setting bait.”
The weight of it sank in — hot, furious.
Lisa (gritting her teeth):
“And I led her straight into it.”
Sirens now. Closer.
Lisa didn’t hesitate. She stuffed the Kimly papers deep into the bag, slung it over her shoulder, and bolted across the dark field.
Lisa (running, whispering to herself):
“They wanted Eve to come to them.
They’re not getting her.
Not on my watch.”
She didn’t look back.
————————————————-
Buzz:
“Okay, the police got there. There was a man in the car—unconscious. But no woman.”
Eve:
“She must have gotten out…”
Artimus:
“Yes. Which means she probably got away. She’ll make her way home.”
Buzz:
“You two get back to the house and wait for her. There’s really nothing else you can do right now.”
Artimus:
(gripping Buzz’s shoulder)
“Thanks, mate. Really appreciate you.”
(They hug. Buzz turns to Eve.)
Buzz:
(hugging Eve)
“Take care of each other, alright?”
Eve:
(teary, nodding)
“Thank you.”
Back at the house, Eve and Artimus sit waiting like anxious parents.
Eve:
(half-joking, half-serious)
“Remind me never to have kids.”
Artimus:
(grimacing)
“Total agreement there.”
Suddenly—
The front door creaks open.
Lisa stumbles in, carrying a gym bag, looking ragged—cuts, bruises, dust all over her.
Without a second thought, Eve jumps up and throws her arms around her, crying into her shoulder.
Eve:
(sobbing)
“You scared the living daylights out of us!”
Lisa:
(quiet, with a sad smirk)
“So you noticed I was gone.”
Eve:
(snapping back)
“Lisa! Alright—you’re gonna wish I would leave you alone now!”
Artimus:
(grinning, teasing)
“Yeah, you’re screwed. Should’ve stayed missing.”
Eve:
(gathering herself)
“Alright—sit. We need to talk. We found the snack bag you dropped. So—why did you leave the house?”
Lisa sits down, weary but present.
Lisa:
(voice cracking)
“I saw you two… hitting it off so well. Eve never giving me the time of day anymore. I thought… I’m not wanted here. So I left.”
A deep silence falls over the room.
Eve crosses the space and crouches in front of Lisa.
Eve:
(gently but firmly)
“And you went and got yourself into serious trouble.”
(she takes a breath, wipes her face)
Eve:
“Well guess what? Now you’re grounded. And you’re gonna wish I’d stop giving you attention.”
(She points to the bedroom.)
Eve:
“Go to your room. I’ll be there in a minute—with the medical kit.”
Lisa smiles a little despite herself and trudges off.
Artimus raises his hands like well, Mom said it.
When Lisa disappears into the bedroom, Artimus leans in close to Eve.
Artimus:
(quietly)
“We’ve still gotta ask her about the guy. You know.”
Eve:
(nodding, grim)
“I know. But first…
I need to see for myself that she’s really okay.”
Eve walked into the bedroom and shut the door behind her, turning to Artimus:
Eve:
(quiet, but firm)
“I’ll find out what really happened. Wait here.”
She crossed the room to Lisa, who was sitting stiffly on the bed.
Eve:
“Okay. Let’s get these rags off you.”
Lisa didn’t resist as Eve helped her undress—tossing the torn clothes into a dirty pile on the floor.
Eve:
(assessing)
“You’ve got some cuts and bruises. I’m going to clean those wounds. Get those panties off too—I need to check the hardware.”
Lisa blushed faintly but obeyed.
Eve tossed her a sheet to drape over herself.
Eve:
(gently, but direct)
“Alright, honey. Tell me everything.
Start at the beginning.”
Lisa told her—about the man at the bar, the reckless plan to get him off track, the car crash.
Eve listened, moving methodically: cleaning, patching, tending.
But when Lisa reached the part about the Kimly papers, Eve froze, papers in hand, her face darkening.
Eve:
(low, sharp)
“Did he touch you?”
Lisa shook her head, mute.
Eve:
(softening slightly)
“Okay. You got him far enough off the trail.
You’re lucky, Lisa. So damn lucky.”
Lisa finished, her voice growing intense as she laid out her theory—how this girl, the missing teenager, must have been used to smoke Eve out.
Eve stared at the papers a long moment, deep in thought.
Finally, she set them down.
She looked up.
Eve:
(voice rising)
“That’s the whole story?”
Lisa:
(quiet, but stubborn)
“Yes.”
Eve:
(angry now)
“I can’t believe you left like that. Started drinking… coming on to some random guy.
What the hell, Lisa?!
All because I wasn’t ‘in the mood’?!”
(snarling)
“And me and Artimus—we didn’t even do anything!”
Lisa:
(bitter)
“You don’t want me. Just admit it.
I get to do whatever I want.”
Lisa started to stand—Eve snapped.
Eve:
(voice commanding)
“Sit. Down.”
Lisa froze. Sat.
Eve got up and paced, her body vibrating with emotion she couldn’t shove down anymore.
Eve:
(half-shouting)
“Did you ever think maybe this isn’t about you?
Maybe it’s about me?”
She turned, her eyes blazing.
Eve:
(fierce)
“I’m not just some prize you win!
I have feelings. Big ones.
Wounds you don’t even see.”
(voice breaking)
“Yeah, I got some healing—but triggers don’t disappear, Lisa. They hide. They wait.”
Lisa:
(softer, desperate)
“What am I doing to trigger you?”
Eve:
(pacing harder)
“I don’t know!
Maybe it’s because I know this crap isn’t over.
Artimus destroyed so much when he burned the data.
You think they’re not plotting something?
Smoking me out?”
(she gestures wildly)
“You’re just starting to see it now—but I’ve always known.
They’re coming for us. Maybe to kill us. Maybe worse.
And I’m supposed to what—just relax?
Be your perfect girlfriend? Smile through it?”
(she pounds her chest)
“Well, screw that.
At least now I’m honest.
At least now I’m real.”
Lisa blinked hard—taking it all in.
Finally, Lisa rose slowly, came over, and wrapped her arms around Eve.
Held her trembling body.
Lisa:
(whispering fiercely)
“I hear you.
And I’m still here.”
(she clutches her tighter)
“I’m the one who found out the truth.
A long beat.
Eve didn’t hug back—but she didn’t pull away either.
And that, maybe, was enough for now.
Artimus pushed the door open just enough to see them — Lisa holding Eve tightly, Eve trembling but staying in her arms.
He froze, staring.
Artimus:
(half shouting)
“What the hell?”
His eyes locked onto Eve, searching her face.
Eve pulled slightly away from Lisa, turning to him, her voice steady but rough from crying.
Eve:
(flatly, but deadly serious)
“They’re smoking me out, Artimus.
And they had one of their dogs sniffing around.”
She glanced down at the rumpled gym bag, the Kimly papers peeking out.
Eve:
(low)
“They’re coming.”
Scene: Breaking Point
Lisa had taken a long shower, letting the hot water pound against her skin while she thought everything through.
There was no other move now.
The only path was forward—plowing through the fear, the sadness, the loss.
Alone, if need be.
She stepped out of the bedroom and found Artimus and Eve sitting on the couch—the same damn couch that felt more and more like another prison every day.
Always hiding. Always waiting for the next boogeyman.
Lisa (steady):
“Listen, both of you.
I’m leaving sometime tomorrow. I’m going to find the missing girl.”
Artimus (straightening up, confused):
“What? I thought we were doing this together.”
Eve’s face froze in shock.
Lisa (calm, but firm):
“Together? We aren’t together anymore.
Eve tells me you’re probably sneaking around at night seeing other people, Artimus.
And I’m not going to sit here pining for Eve—especially when it’s clear it’s better if we separate.
It’s easier to catch a group of mice than one.
And running, hiding—that’s not me anymore.
I choose to live differently now.
And right now… it’s about a missing girl.
It’s about doing something real.
Friends—that’s all we are now.
Let me be clear.”
Eve (bitter, wounded):
“So that’s it. No vote. No discussion.”
Artimus (cold, looking at Eve):
“It stopped being a democracy when you pulled away from us.”
Lisa (quiet, but resolute):
“We’re still friends.
But I lost a great love to fear.
And I deserve to grieve that… in my own way.
And I’m going to.”
(She pauses, letting the weight of it settle.)
“I’ll keep in touch, but we don’t use phones.
So don’t expect perfect check-ins.”
Artimus (frustrated):
“I don’t like this.
We should be doing this together.
We’re stronger together.
The bird… it came to all of us for a reason.”
Eve (crying suddenly, raw):
“No. I’m the pariah here, remember?
I’ll go.
You two can work together.
You’re better off without me anyway.
Lisa doesn’t want me around unless we’re sleeping together.”
Eve shoved herself off the couch and stormed into her bedroom, slamming the door behind her.
Artimus (turning on Lisa, desperate):
“See what you’re doing?
Where’s she gonna go, huh?
You want her out there alone too?”
Lisa didn’t answer.
She walked slowly to her room.
She sat on the edge of her bed.
The silence closed in around her.
And where are you gonna go, Lisa? she thought.
Meanwhile, Eve was furiously packing
Eve (muttering, tears streaking her face):
“I can face my fears too, you know.
My own way.”
(Then louder, choked with grief.)
“I don’t think… I don’t think I’ll be able to forgive you for this.”
Eve (whispering, broken):
“You didn’t sign up for this.
You signed up for what we had.”
Lisa stood, her chest tight.
Lisa (softly, like reaching across a bridge):
“Don’t you remember us?
You were fearless, Eve.
But maybe now… it’s just more complicated.”
Eve (bitter):
“Maybe.
Or maybe I’m just making it complicated.
But why… why am I doing that?”
The question hung in the air like smoke.
And then—
Lisa saw it.
The bird.
Hovering in the room—watching, waiting.
Lisa moved closer to Eve, who had her back turned.
Gently, Lisa ran her hand through Eve’s hair, smoothing it with tenderness.
Lisa (low, sure):
“I don’t care what happened to you.
I don’t care what they tried to make you feel.”
Eve started to pull away—reflex—but Lisa held firm.
Lisa (whispering, fierce):
“I see you.
I see what they did to you.”
Eve (choking back a sob):
“Lisa, don’t…”
Lisa (stronger, unwavering):
“You were destroyed.
But you kept breathing.
You kept breathing.”
Finally, Eve turned around.
And in one broken, beautiful movement—they fell into each other’s arms.
Eve wept against Lisa’s chest.
Lisa held her tight.
Neither of them let go.
Not this time.
—————————————————
Even Broken Wings Fly
(Chapter Opening)
Our next step, we decided, was simple: get packed, head into nature, and figure things out away from all the noise.
We found a campground tucked far enough off the beaten path, and by nightfall we were sitting around a small campfire, the sky above us wide and clear.
The fire cracked softly between us.
Artimus stirred the embers with a stick, his expression serious.
Artimus:
“We’ve got to talk more about the buzzing sounds. About how they might be using them to smoke you out.”
(He looked at Eve.)
“You’re sure it started in the girl’s room?”
Eve:
(nodding)
“Yes. And it faded when I got home.”
Artimus tossed another twig into the flames, thinking hard.
Artimus:
“What about now? Since we left the house?”
Eve:
(leaning back, closing her eyes for a second)
“Nothing. Not a thing.”
The fire popped, sending tiny sparks upward into the dark.
It was the first time in days any of us had felt even a hint of real peace.
Eve:
Wait… it did buzz when I was alone and emotional. Lisa had left. I knew it was my fault. It hit me like a ton of bricks.
(pauses)
In fact, it was buzzing off and on until she returned.
Artimus:
You sure you don’t know something you’re not telling us? I mean… they studied us like rats. This missing girl flipped a switch in you. And now? The dog sniffing around, Kimly’s name showing up again… it’s all connected.
Lisa:
Maybe… maybe there’s a resonance you have with this girl. Maybe they were counting on it. Oh my God…
(realizing)
Maybe both signals—yours and the girl’s—have to be active, intense, to get a full lock. That means…
Eve:
They might have got a lock on me when I was in Cherry’s room. (missing girl)
They might have questioned the parents after that. To get more information on me. The parents may have gave them Buzz.
Artimus:
Then they probably know about Buzz. About everything.
(standing suddenly)
I’m calling him.
(He walks off into the trees with his phone.)
Eve:
(softly, to Lisa)
One thing’s for sure.
Lisa:
What’s that?
(Eve unzips her sleeping bag slowly and curls a finger.)
Eve:
Come here.
(Lisa crawls in without hesitation. The cold of the night fades instantly in the warmth between them. Eve pulls her close—her hands trailing over Lisa’s body, anchoring her, claiming her, needing her. Lisa kisses her with hunger, the kind that had been waiting since the day they first met.)
(Their breaths sync. Movement becomes rhythm. Emotion, energy, release. Not just physical, but something deeper—an alignment. A surrender.)
(Afterward, they’re still tangled together when Artimus returns, quietly laying his sleeping bag beside them.)
Eve:
(teasing, eyes still closed)
And what do you think you’re doing?
Artimus:
(grinning as he settles in)
Just assuming I’m next.
(Eve opens one eye, smirks, and pulls him in.)
Artimus
(lying back, eyes on the stars)
“Damn. We finally got our priorities right… First things first.”
Lisa
(stretching beside him, catching her breath)
“Doing it under the stars—definitely a first.”
Eve
(playfully smacking Lisa’s butt as she gets up)
“There were a lot of firsts tonight.”
(heading into the trees)
“Gotta pee. If I’m not back in five minutes… well, you know.”
(smirking over her shoulder)
“I want to hear what Buzz said when I get back.”
Buzz’s name pops up on Artimus’s phone.
Artimus
(getting up quickly)
“It’s him.”
(he walks off to take the call, voice low)
A few quiet moments pass. The forest hums with night sounds.
Eve returns—but something’s shifted. Her expression is sharp, focused.
Eve
(urgent)
“Pack up. Now. We have to go.”
Lisa
(springing up)
“What? Why? What happened?”
Eve
(already rolling up a blanket)
“When I was alone out there—I heard the buzzing again. Clear. Intense.”
Lisa
“Shit. You can’t be alone, Eve. Not even for five minutes.”
Eve
(grabbing Lisa, kissing her deeply and deliberately)
“I know.”
They pack quickly, tossing gear into the car just as Artimus returns, phone in hand, looking grave.
Artimus
(to them both)
“What’s going on now?”
Lisa
(closing the trunk)
“She heard the buzzing. Alone in the woods. It’s still tracking her.”
(beat)
“So—was it true? Did they question the parents about us?”
Artimus
(nodding, jaw tight)
“Yes. Buzz confirmed it. Everything’s compromised.”
(looking at them both)
“We can’t go home.”
After driving about an hour, Artimus finally said,
Artimus: “Alright, this is good. Iron Mountain. Let’s camp here.”
They laid out their sleeping bags under the open sky, stars blazing above them. It was quiet, almost sacred, and the air felt full of potential.
Lisa: “You know… they should be afraid of us. We’re going after them. And not only that—we’re going to have fun doing it. We should all get tattoos tomorrow.”
Eve and Artimus chuckled at the way Lisa’s mind worked.
Eve: “Well, lady… you already have a tattoo where I’d want to put my stamp.”
Artimus: “Looks like there’s still plenty of room back there for another.”
Eve: “Thank God.”
Lisa: (teasing) “Where would you want your name on me?”
Eve: “Hmm… flashlight. Roll over and let me see.”
Lisa blushed but obeyed, slowly turning.
Eve: “Okay… maybe right here. Let me taste it.”
Eve leaned in and kissed the spot.
Lisa: “What about you, Artimus? Where would you want yours?”
Artimus: (smiling) “Alright, let me see…”
Both Eve and Artimus began softly tracing their fingers over Lisa’s body, looking for just the right place. What followed was another round of passionate lovemaking—slow, raw, and affirming. When they finally collapsed together under the stars, breathless and warm, there was silence.
And then—
Eve: “You know what? I think Lisa’s right. We’re super-duper heroes. I feel it.”
Lisa: “You are, you know. Maybe even more than me and Artimus.”
Artimus: “And why’s that?”
Lisa: “Because she was sensitive enough to pick up on Cherry. We couldn’t. Her love meets that girl where she is.”
Eve: (suddenly pointing) “Omg, look! A falling star!”
They all watched as it streaked across the sky, a glowing arc of mystery and promise.
Lisa: (gazing at Eve) “Like I said… they should be scared of us.”
Morning Mischief
The trio stirred awake to the sound of distant voices—some campers chatting with Artimus about a yoga gathering happening later that day. Eve blinked against the sunlight, rolled over, and immediately yanked the sleeping bag up over Lisa’s bare bottom.
Eve (half-whispering, amused):
“Lisa! Cover your butt. Those campers might’ve just gotten a full show.”
Lisa (stretching lazily):
“Oops… sorry. Are you mad? You look mad.”
Eve (grinning):
“I’m telling Artimus. Let’s see what he says we should do with you.”
Lisa just shrugged, playing along with their unspoken game of mock-discipline.
Artimus returned from his impromptu chat, already buzzing with energy.
Artimus:
“Let’s go do yoga! They’re setting up in a clearing over the hill.”
Lisa (perking up):
“Yay! Let’s!”
Eve (pointing to Lisa):
“Why didn’t you cover her up? Her butt was out—like, out out.”
Artimus blinked.
Artimus:
“Oh—yikes. I was taking a piss. I didn’t know the morning parade was going to show up.”
(He turned to Lisa, mock-scolding.)
Artimus:
“Can’t you take care of yourself?”
Eve:
“Apparently not.”
Lisa made a noise somewhere between protest and pout.
Lisa:
“Well, I’m taking a bath in the stream first. Is that allowed, parents?”
Artimus looked at Eve with mock authority.
Artimus:
“You go with her.”
Eve (grinning):
“Let’s go. When’s the yoga?”
Artimus:
“About two hours from now—over that hill. You’ll love it.”
Found Girl – Scene: Yoga in the Clearing
Amazingly, we all started to feel better. Who would’ve thought that just being out in nature could do that? It actually started to feel like home.
Not only did we do yoga, but there was also a meditation session afterward. The group was pretty big.
Pauline: “Hi, I’m Pauline. I haven’t seen you three out here before. A lot of us are practically residents now—we’re all into meditation. And at night, we have a star family gathering.”
Pauline laughed softly. “I know it sounds weird, but there’ve been sightings out here. I’m sure you’ve heard.”
Eve (curious): “Oh—spacecraft. Yeah, I have no doubt people experience all kinds of things out here.”
Lisa: “We’ve had some experiences of our own. I’m Lisa, by the way. Hope to see you at the gathering. Oh, and random question—does anyone out here do tattoos?”
Pauline: “I think so. You should ask Jasmine over there.”
Lisa (glancing at Eve): “Thanks.”
Pauline gives them a friendly wave and wanders back to join the others, leaving Eve and Lisa alone.
Eve (serious, lowering her voice): “Lisa, we need to talk.”
Lisa: “What? What happened?”
Eve (quietly, her cheeks reddening): “I heard something during the meditation.”
Lisa: “Like what?”
Eve: “A voice. She started talking to me. Am I losing it?”
Lisa (firmly): “No.”
Just then, a tall, charming man approaches them with an easy smile.
Brad: “Hey, I’m Brad. Glad you two are joining us out here. If you need anything, just let me know. Newbies always forget something, so my stuff is your stuff.”
Eve (smiling): “Oh, really? I might have to take you up on that — being a newbie and all.”
Brad gives a quick nod and a grin before heading back to the others.
Lisa (teasing): “Oh my god. Were you just flirting? You totally were. Am I allowed to do that too?”
Eve (grinning, trying to stay serious): “Lisa, come on. We need to find Artimus.”
Lisa: “Okay, okay. It was probably Cherry, right? How’s she doing?”
Eve (deadpan): “Lisa, this isn’t funny. I think I’m going crazy.”
Lisa: “Hello? Know your audience. Look at me.”
They walk off together, still half-laughing and half-worried, toward the trees to find Artimus.
Lisa (suddenly stopping): “Wait a minute… I just thought of something. Remember how you connected with that light being on the other side? The one who helped you hear your mom’s soul?”
Eve: “Yeah…”
Lisa: “Hello? Maybe you’re hearing Cherry the same way.”
Eve (eyes widening): “Oh my God… maybe. But what about the whole ‘they’re smoking me out’ theory?”
Lisa (shrugging): “Eve—let them smoke. That’s their thing. What’s our thing? What’s your thing?”
Lisa grins and playfully pulls Eve toward her, giving her a pinch on the butt.
Eve: “Ow! That actually hurt.”
Lisa (mock concerned): “Oh—I’m sorry!”
Eve (grinning): “Just kidding.”
Scene: Under the Stars – The Trio’s Connection
The trio waves casually to a few other campers before settling onto a large blanket, gazing up at the stars. The field is quiet but dotted with small groups—each far enough apart that private conversations stay private.
A guide’s voice begins the star family meditation in the background, soft and rhythmic.
Lisa
(whispering)
“Okay, Eve. Just let us know everything you hear. Artimus and I will interact too if she comes through.”
Eve
(nods, focused)
“Got it.”
Artimus
(low voice, reflecting)
“I never thought I’d be doing this six months ago.”
Lisa
“Let’s set the intention to connect with Cherry. We’re here to help her—however she needs.”
Artimus
“Alright. Let’s do it.”
As the meditation deepens, the trio smiles faintly, exchanging knowing glances.
Lisa
(murmuring)
“Been there, done that… got the 5D soil.”
They chuckle quietly, then go still. Eve’s breathing slows.
Eve
(softly)
“Oh… wait. I’m hearing something. She’s saying she wants to go home. She’s being held somewhere. She’s scared.”
Artimus
“Ask her about her surroundings. Maybe there’s something that can help us find her.”
Eve
“I did. But… they’ve made it so she doesn’t know where she is. I’m asking her to describe anything—equipment, logos, dates, serial numbers…”
Lisa
“Good. That’s smart.”
A long pause. The air is heavy with anticipation.
Lisa
“Okay. Let’s adjust the timeline. Our intention is to connect at a moment where she can give us a clue.”
Eve
(suddenly)
“Oh! I’m seeing something now. I’m remote viewing her. It’s a Kimley building… and the street—Caper Street. I can see the building clearly.”
Suddenly, a voice cuts in and startles them.
Brad
“Hey! Sorry to sneak up on you.”
All three jump slightly.
Brad
“Jasmine said she’ll be available for tattoos tonight—open till 1am.”
Lisa
“Thanks, Brad.”
Artimus
(glancing at him, reserved)
“Hey, mate. We’re kinda in the middle of something. No offense.”
Brad
“Totally. I just wanted to talk to Lisa for a second. Alone, if that’s okay?”
Lisa
(standing up slowly)
“Uh… sure.”
Eve and Artimus exchange a glance—confused and slightly alarmed—as Lisa walks off with Brad.
Artimus
(leaning toward Eve)
“What the hell is that about? Are they into each other?”
Eve
(squinting)
“I mean, they’ve talked. But this feels weird.”
Lisa returns 30 minutes later, relaxed. She plops back down on the blanket.
Eve
(eyebrows raised)
“What was that?”
Lisa
“Oh, we were just getting to know each other.”
Artimus
(sputtering)
“Say what?”
Eve
“You’ve been flirting with him? I mean, sure—he’s attractive, but aren’t you… you know, taken?”
Artimus
(grumbling)
“I knew he was checking you out. I’ll tear his eyes out.”
Eve
“Did you even tell him you’re in a relationship?”
Lisa
(grinning)
Yeah he knows
Artimus
“Oh, great. That’s so not going to be awkward.”
Eve
“Oh you’re pushing it, young lady! After everything, you’re gonna start playing around like that?”
(she looks at Artimus)
“I mean, we’re all in this together… right? Should we be jealous?”
Artimus
“I’m gonna kill that prick. What—he didn’t think I might be offended”
Eve
“Exactly. Why’d he assume you were free to go with him if your with us.”
Lisa
(playfully)
“Okay, okay—I’m just enjoying the moment. You both know I wouldn’t cheat… but come on, it’s kind of flattering.
Eve
(throws up her hands)
“That’s it. We’re whipping her.”
She lunges playfully and tackles Lisa, pinning her down and tickling her while swatting her gently.
Artimus
(grinning, but serious)
“Still… I hope he’s not who I think he might be.”
Eve
“No kidding…”
The laughter fades into a brief hush as the three fall quiet again—resting in the moment, but aware: something has shifted.
Scene: Ink of the Ancients
The trio strolled into the softly lit tattoo tent, their steps easy, their faces glowing with a calm that only nature and newfound purpose could bring. The air was thick with sandalwood and something metallic—sacred, ancient.
Jasmine
(stepping forward, smiling warmly)
“Hello. I’m Jas. Heard you wanted something… permanent.”
Eve
(eyeing the designs)
“These look like symbols.”
Jasmine
“They are. Ancient light codes—symbols we’re only beginning to rediscover. Some go back to Lemuria. Others to pre-Atlantean societies.”
Lisa
(eyes wide)
“Like the stuff we saw in the Other World…”
Jasmine
“Other World?”
Artimus
(grinning)
“She means the Galactic Federation—or was it the Cosmic Council?”
Eve
(to Jasmine)
“Private joke. Long story.”
Jasmine
(smiling knowingly)
“No worries. The ink knows how to keep secrets.”
Artimus
(clapping his hands)
“Let’s pick something cosmic. What do you want, hon?”
Lisa
“Maybe a triangle with the names Eve and Artimus.
Eve
(squinting at her)
“That’s a little basic, don’t you think?”
Lisa
“Basic is the new galactic.”
Jasmine
(laughing softly)
“I can try something intuitive. Just let me tune in for a sec.”
She closed her eyes for only a moment, and when she opened them, her hands moved with practiced ease. In soft, fluid strokes, she sketched out a sparrow overlaid on a triangle, its wings mid-flight.
Lisa
(quietly, awed)
“Oh my god. . You’re really good.”
Before anyone could reply, a voice slid in behind them like an unwanted breeze.
Brad
(smirking)
“Getting your mark on her, huh?”
Eve
(spinning)
“That’s right, Brad. You’re not invited.”
Brad
(half-drunk, dismissive)
“Maybe you all should get hexagons instead of triangles. What’s the difference anyway, huh?”
Artimus
(eyes narrowing, watching his every movement)
“Maybe the difference is knowing when to shut up.”
Brad took a step closer—too close—and leaned in to Lisa, whispering something sharp and slurred.
Lisa
(snarling)
“Get away from me.”
She slapped him—hard—and the sound cracked through the tent like a starter pistol.
Artimus
(grabbing Brad by the collar)
“You think you can just walk in and—”
Brad
(swinging back, clumsy)
“She was into it!”
Eve
(eyes glowing, putting her leg out.)
“Fall flat, you bastard.”
Brad tripped on her legs—falling backwards, knocking over a stool with a loud crash.
Jasmine
(rushing in, voice firm)
“Stop! This is sacred ground!”
Everyone froze. Brad groaned from the floor, dazed.
Jasmine
(to Brad)
“You need to leave. Now.”
Lisa
(voice shaking but steady)
“You don’t get to pull that shit here”
Brad staggered to his feet, looking between them—his drunken bravado quickly fading in the presence of three united souls who weren’t afraid of anything, least of all him.
He backed out slowly.
The tent was silent for a beat. Then Jasmine exhaled.
Jasmine
(to the trio)
“Now. Where were we?”
Eve
(glancing at Lisa’s arm smiling faintly)
“We were claiming who we are.”
And the needles hummed once more—marking not just their skin, but their choice.
The trio nestled into their sleeping bags near the campfire, the flames casting a soft glow across their faces.
Lisa (to Eve, playful):
“You were so on fire today with Brad. It was… sexy.”
Eve (arching a brow):
“You keep testing me like that, you’re gonna feel some fire—right across your backside.”
Lisa (grinning):
“There’s something about Brad… I don’t know. He’s going through something. Maybe he’s trying to break free of something. Artimus, you think he’s with Kimly?”
Artimus (shrugging):
“I don’t know, love. I’m not the psychic in this trio. If he’s with Kimly, he hasn’t made a move—or called in the goon squad.”
Lisa:
“What’s your take, Eve?”
Eve (thoughtful):
“People tied to things like Kimly don’t get drunk and act sloppy. He might be going rogue. Or spiraling.”
Lisa:
“Well… it happened with you two.”
Eve (with a grin):
“Oh, come here. I’m topping you tonight. Someone needs to tame that mouth.”
(She climbs on top of Lisa, kissing her firmly.)
“I’m telling Buzz on you tomorrow.”
Lisa (mock dramatic):
“No! No… please don’t tell!”
Eve:
“I’m a tattletale, aren’t I?”
Artimus (smirking as he scoots closer):
“Total loose lip.”
Eve (teasing):
“And an open mouth.”
Artimus chuckles and joins them, their laughter melting into the crackle of fire and a night sky filled with stars.
The trio rumbled down a backroad in their weathered vehicle, heading toward the secret location where Buzz was waiting. Eve scribbled in a small notebook, mumbling under her breath.
Eve (reading aloud):
“Okay—we need to stop and grab deodorant, some douches, condoms…”
Artimus (groaning):
“Oh come on, you two don’t trust me by now?”
Lisa and Eve exchanged a look. Without missing a beat:
Both:
“No.”
Eve:
“It’s been what—ten days since your little escapade with Brunette Barbie or Blondie Bonkers?”
Artimus (defensive):
“I used a condom! Can I at least get credit for that?”
Lisa and Eve gave each other a slow side-eye.
Lisa:
“Maybe. Probably.”
Eve (pointing at Lisa):
“And a shaver. You need to shave.”
Lisa (sighing):
“It’s hard in the wild—no mirror, no shower, no dignity.”
Eve (teasing):
“Okay, I’ll do it for you then.”
Lisa (smiling):
“Okay.”
Artimus (groaning dramatically):
“I swear, being the only male in this deeply hygienic, medically-obsessed trio is a curse. Eve—couldn’t you have just been a lawyer?”
Eve (smirking):
“You’re just mad I scored higher on the LSAT.”
Lisa (surprised):
“Wait—you did?”
Eve:
“Really did.”
Artimus (mock offended):
“Alright, alright—science was my jam. So bloody what.”
Just then, Lisa slammed the brakes. A figure appeared up ahead—dusty, sunburned, and unmistakable.
Artimus:
“Bloody hell…”
Lisa (wide-eyed):
“That’s Brad!”
She jerked the wheel, pulling the car to the side. Brad trudged toward them slowly, unaware.
Eve (angry):
“Why did you stop the car?!”
Lisa:
“We almost hit him!”
Eve:
“Yeah, and now we really will if we don’t keep moving.”
Artimus (calmly):
“Okay, he’s hitchhiking. So what?”
Lisa:
“So what? I say we talk to him. He could have information—maybe even something on Cherry.”
Eve:
“Or he’s lying through his perfect teeth. Lisa, we have a plan. Buzz first. Cherry next. Remember?”
Lisa:
“He might clue us into something. Come on, it’s worth a shot.”
Eve (folding her arms):
“Vote. I vote no. Leave him. Artimus?”
Artimus (rubbing his face):
“Aye yai yai… Sorry, hon. I want to see what he’s got to say.”
Eve (exasperated):
“You two are going to be the death of me.”
Scene: Roadside Confrontation]
The trio steps out of the vehicle and meets Brad in the middle of the quiet road. Dust swirls in the heat, the air heavy with tension.
Artimus (arms crossed, cool):
“So we meet again. What’re you doing out here, mate?”
Lisa (eyeing him):
“And why are you walking like a stray cat?”
Brad (half-smile, sheepish):
“Yeah… fair. Look, sorry about last night. Truth is, I know who you all are. You’re Kimly’s most wanted.”
Eve (eyes narrowing):
“And how exactly would you know that?”
Brad (matter-of-fact):
“Because I worked for them. Still technically do. Top security operative. I was assigned to bring you in.”
Artimus (mocking calm):
“And now you’re telling us this like it’s a casual Tuesday?”
Brad (shrugging):
“You three… you’ve got a frequency. Like something alive between you. And Eve—your signal? It’s in my head. They said it’d be in yours, but nah… it’s like I’m tuned to you.”
Eve (flat):
“That’s not comforting.”
Brad:
“I’m not here to take you in. I’m here for Cherry. I want her back too.”
Lisa (surprised):
“Wait—you have a gift?”
Brad (nodding):
“People do what they normally wouldn’t when I’m around. Influence, persuasion, whatever you wanna call it.”
Lisa (half-joking):
“Is that why I was into you?”
Eve (shooting Lisa a look):
“Seriously?”
Brad (with a smirk):
“That’s right. But truth? I’m into guys. And this buzzing? It’s not just psychic—it’s personal. Feels like it’s coming from you, Eve.”
Artimus:
“Alright. Let’s focus. Do you know how to reach Cherry?”
Brad (quietly):
“I think I do.”
Eve:
“What’s your clearance?”
Brad:
“Red level. They gave me access to everything. Including her file.”
Eve (stepping closer):
“Then you tell me right now—what do they know about Buzz?”
Brad:
“They know he’s with you. They think he helped collapse the three-year convergence project. They’ve had a hit order on him—and all of you—for months.”
Artimus:
“Then why isn’t he dead?”
Brad:
“He’s not hiding from you—but from them? He’s using cloaking tech I can’t even track. Still… it won’t hold forever.”
Lisa:
“So what do you want?”
Brad (serious now):
“To take down Kimly. Like you did with Ben. Cherry… she’s family. Only one who gave a damn about me when I was falling apart. Maybe that’s why I’m tuned to her too.”
The trio looks at each other. Then huddles, whispering.
Lisa (softly):
“We have to search him.”
Eve:
“I’ll do it. I’m the doctor.”
Artimus (stepping back):
“Don’t look at me..”
They turn back around.
Lisa:
“Alright, Brad. Strip. Eve’s gotta make sure you’re not wired, chipped, or hiding anything squirmy.”
Brad (grinning, hands raised):
“Finally, someone says it. Let’s do this.”
Eve (deadpan):
“Welcome to the resistance, sunshine.”
Soon, the earthy scent of bark and moss thickened as they reached the lift—a hidden pulley platform that creaked softly as it hoisted them up to their shelter in the trees. Their room was part sanctuary, part lookout: a circular wooden nest perched in the branches, with floor-to-ceiling mesh that gave an uninterrupted view of the forest below. Vines curled along the balcony railing. Crickets hummed like a low electric current.
Buzz: “So this guy can influence anyone, huh? Damn, I’m glad he’s on our side now.”
Artimus (half-skeptical): “You searched him thoroughly, right?”
Eve (rolling her eyes): “Shut up.”
Artimus (grinning): “It’s almost too good to be true.”
Lisa: “Shut up again. That’s how we roll, remember?”
Buzz (nodding at Lisa): “She’s either way ahead of her time—or arriving just in time. One or the other.”
Artimus: “So the plan’s solid. Distract them, gather intel—”
Lisa (firmly): “—and get Cherry out. Period.”
They returned to their temporary quarters, nestled high in the trees with a sweeping view of the valley below.
Lisa: “I should check on Brad. Just to see if he’s okay.”
Eve (suspicious but composed): “Hmm… okay.” looks at Artimus.
Lisa stepped behind Eve, wrapped her arms around her waist, and kissed the back of her neck softly.
Lisa (whispering): “I’ll be back.”
Eve (smirking): “If you’re lucky. Three nights in a row—that’s gotta be a record for us. I’m getting tired, though. Don’t do whatever you two do too long.”
She slipped away quickly.
Artimus (watching her go): “So… you really think he’s gay?”
Eve: “Probably. What, you didn’t pick up on the gay vibes?”
Artimus: “Not really. And I thought I was worldly enough.”
Eve (shrugging): “Well I examined him alright, I just know he wasn’t into me sexually. “
Artimus. And what about you to him love?
Eve: I felt his power to influence sexually or otherwise. It’s more powerful than me but not more powerful than us three.
Artimus: I almost forgot—we got the okay to listen in. The bug in his room is ready. .
Eve: Yeah I just hope Lisa doesn’t disappoint us both. .
Artimus: I will kill both of them. Let’s do this.
Artimus dials. A moment later, he puts in his earbuds and starts listening.
Artimus: (muttering) I don’t trust him.
Buzz sends the link. The feed crackles alive.
They listen for a while and then it happened.
Brad (on audio): Hey… I won’t tell them what happened. It’s in the vault.
Lisa (on audio): Thanks. I’m just not ready yet to explain what I was thinking when we did that.
Brad: No worries. You can trust me. I really admire all three of you. Thanks.
Artimus blinks, stunned.
Artimus: Oh my god…
Eve: What?
Artimus: (handing her the earbuds) I didn’t think she had it in her to do that.
Eve listens—her expression morphs from shock to devastation. She sits down abruptly, pale.
Lisa (entering cheerfully): He’s okay. Hopefully everyone’ll sleep good tonight.
Eve (coldly): Yeah. And you’re sleeping on the couch.
Lisa: Wait, what?
Artimus: Dude… not cool.
Eve storms into the bedroom and slams the door.
Lisa: What is going on?!
Artimus sighs and explains what they heard. Lisa stands frozen for a moment and then explained to him what really happened. She then walks to the bedroom door and knocks gently. She steps in.
Lisa: Eve, we have to talk.
She sits on the edge of the bed.
Lisa: I didn’t cheat on you. Artimus told me what you heard. Nothing sexual happened. Brad’s gay. Like… really gay.
Eve’s crying now, but listening.
Lisa: I heard what you said that night—about wishing the tattoo on my lower back wasn’t there… because it felt like someone else’s name. Someone I used to think I loved.
Eve looks at her, silent.
Lisa: Brad said he could remove it fast. He showed me this little device—honestly it looked like a laser pen. It took 5 minutes. I was too embarrassed to tell you I did that. And the next day he acted like a jerk, but I didn’t regret doing it.
Eve: (sniffing) You trusted that guy? You let him see your ass?
Lisa: I know. I get why that bothers you. But he wasn’t drunk. I felt safe. And I did it because I wanted to put your name there. Like you said once. It felt… right.
Eve wipes her eyes, still frowning.
Eve: Come here. Turn around.
Lisa does. Eve lifts her shirt and examines the spot. She stares for a moment.
Eve: Damn… I almost had a heart attack thinking you slept with that guy.
She pulls Lisa down beside her.
Eve: Come on. Get in.
They curl under the covers, emotionally spent. A moment later, Artimus pokes his head in.
Artimus: Okay, we all good? That’s good. Now get some sleep. And Lisa, maybe try going one whole day without flaunting your stuff around, will ya?
Eve: Yeah. Keep your clothes on when you’re out. Do us all a favor.
Lisa (grinning tiredly): Sorry. I’ll do better. Good night.
Scene: Eve, Lisa, Artimus, and Buzz Prepare to Listen In
The team gathers in a secure room. A small receiver crackles to life. Artimus adjusts the tuning knob.
Artimus:
“Alright. We’re tapped into a ghost frequency.
Brad’s call will come through on a thirty-second delay.
Any shorter and Kimley’s system might flag the bounceback.”
Buzz:
“He’ll hold his own. Watch.”
Lisa:
“He better.” (She folds her arms tightly.)
Eve:
“I’m staying tuned to his energy in case the feed drops. But we’ll hear him.”
The room quiets. The signal stabilizes. Brad’s voice fades in—smooth, confident, and just cocky enough to sell the lie.
Scene: Brad’s Call with Kimley (Heard on Delay)
Brad:
“They’re still out there.
Camping with some fringe-dwellers—alien zealots who think consciousness is currency.
They’re fully off-grid. No tech. No trace.”
Kimley (distorted, filtered):
“You’ve seen them? Recently?”
Brad:
“Seen ‘em, smelled ‘em, tripped over one of their sacred fire pits.
They’re working on frequency overlays—some kind of projection game.
It’s why your trackers keep glitching.
They’re there and not-there, at the same time.”
Cut to the team listening. Lisa’s brow furrows. Artimus leans forward. Eve closes her eyes briefly, focusing.
Brad (through speaker):
“I lifted something from Artimus.
Looks like junk, but it’s a post-jump stabilizer.
You’ll want to run it through spectrum modeling.
Could give you a jump on next-phase testing.”
Eve exhales slowly, hand pressed to her heart.
Eve:
“He’s steady. Focused.
He’s not improvising—he’s dancing.”
Kimley:
“And the girl?”
Brad:
“Lisa.
She’s unraveling.
Give me one meeting in the right location and I’ll bring her in.
Her and the tech.”
A beat of silence in the room. Lisa stares at the speaker.
Lisa:
“Wow. I sound like a total liability.”
Eve (calmly):
“You’re not. He’s using their assumptions against them.
They think emotion equals weakness.”
Artimus:
“They’re gonna take the bait.”
Brad steps out of the comm room, the door hissing shut behind him. He looks like someone who just pulled off a perfect con—relieved, smug, and glowing with adrenaline.
Brad (with a self-satisfied sigh and grin):
“Well… what do you think? Not bad, right?”
Eve (smiling, giving a slow clap):
“Bravo.”
Brad:
“I swear I could feel you in my head, Eve.
Gave the whole performance a supercharge, if you know what I mean.”
Lisa (deadpan, from experience):
“Yeah… we know exactly what you mean.”
Artimus:
“Yeah, mate, it’s orgasmic, isn’t it?”
Eve turns sharply, half-laughing, half-scolding.
Eve:
“Artimus!”
Brad just smirks, lifting both hands like he’s innocent.
Brad:
“What? I’m just saying—energy’s energy.”
Lisa chuckles, shaking her head, while Artimus gives an unapologetic shrug. The mood has shifted. They’re back in sync—lighthearted, for now, but unified.
Captured in the Lion’s Den
Lisa kept her gaze forward as the thick security doors hissed open. Brad walked just behind her, gripping her arm like a proper enforcer. To anyone watching, she looked like a prisoner being processed. In truth, it was all an act.
They entered a long, sterile corridor—gray walls, harsh lights, turrets tucked into corners. Two guards were already waiting. A red scan crawled over Lisa’s body.
“Target confirmed – Lisa Snow,” one muttered. Her stomach flipped. They were expecting her. This wasn’t a transfer. It was a trap—and she’d walked right into it.
“High-security wing,” Brad said, crisp and cold.
One of the guards snapped a humming collar around her neck and marched her down a narrow side hall. They reached cell 23A. The door opened, Lisa’s cuffs were removed, and she was shoved inside. She caught herself on the bench before the door slammed shut.
She sat and breathed, trying to stay centered.
A voice crackled over the intercom: “Get her to the window.”
Moments later, the door hissed open. A guard strode in, hauled her up by the arm, and dragged her toward the reinforced glass. On the other side stood Commander Raines—tall, stiff, eyes cold as ever. She remembered him from back in the Trump era, back when he acted like he ruled the country. Same energy. Different uniform.
Raines stared at her through the glass like she was something he might have to put down.
“I knew Ben,” he said finally, voice flat. “He told me about you. Looks like the magic’s gone, baby doll. But hey—you’ll make fine entertainment for the guards while you rot.”
Lisa tilted her head. “Fodder,” she said softly.
“What did you say?” His brow twitched.
“I said you’re right. This is interesting entertainment.” Her voice stayed calm, almost curious. “The human spirit—its capacity for survival, for rising again. But that’s probably not something you’d understand, is it… Rainy?”
His eyes narrowed.
Lisa looked up. “I’m here to give you the good news,” she said, her voice light and clear. “The sun is coming out.”
Raines didn’t respond. He nodded to the guard, who yanked Lisa back and shoved her onto the bench. She didn’t resist. Just smiled to herself as the door sealed again and Raines walked away.
Eve steps into the corridor, heels soft against the tile. She wears a crisp lab coat, hair pulled back, ID badge glinting just enough to pass at a glance. But as soon as Kellan sees her, sitting at his terminal, he freezes mid-sip.
Kellan (smirking):
“Well, shit.
Didn’t expect you to come crawling back this way.”
Eve (calm, cool):
“Taking down your own daddy ain’t too nice, huh?”
Kellan:
“Yeah, I gotta say…
You’ve given me some real daddy issues now.”
Eve (circling closer):
“At least I’m standing on my own steam now.”
Kellan:
“And how’s that going for you?”
Eve (leaning in slightly, voice like silk):
“Honestly?
It’s kind of liberating.”
Kellan watches her bend closer, trying to intimidate or tempt—eyes flick briefly to her chest.
Kellan (grinning):
“You always did know how to ask for what you wanted.”
Eve smiles sweetly, leans in near his ear—too close.
Eve (whispers):
“And I’m done asking.”
She jabs a small device—no bigger than a pen—under his ribs. A silent pulse fires. Kellan stiffens. His body locks, eyes wide in disbelief.
Eve:
She grabs his hand, drags it to the biometric scanner beside the secure door. Click. Door unlocked.
She lets him drop to the floor, trembling, humiliated.
Eve (without looking back):
“See you in therapy, Daddy.”
Sabotage from Within –
Brad’s boots echoed down the corridor as he followed the guard away from Lisa’s cell. Every step away from her twisted in his gut, but he kept his expression blank. This was the play.
The command center doors slid open with a hydraulic hiss. Inside, monitors glowed with surveillance feeds. A circular display table pulsed in the center, showing facility schematics and flashing alerts. Commander Raines stood at the heart of it all, hands clasped behind his back.
Brad stepped in, snapped a salute.
“Lieutenant Drake,” Raines said, using the name Brad had assumed. “So the rumors were true. Lisa Snow is in custody.”
“Caught her in the service tunnels,” Brad said. “She had modded com gear. She wasn’t alone.”
Raines frowned. “You saw someone?”
“No visuals, but I think she had backup nearby. Could be lurking. Might’ve slipped in through one of the old duct routes.”
Raines cursed under his breath and turned to the console. “I want every patrol doubled. Sweep the tunnels. If her people are here, we’ll find them.”
Brad moved toward the side terminal, slowly sliding a hand toward his belt. “Permission to upload my report to the system. Coordinates, timestamps… possible breach points.”
Raines nodded, eyes on the console. “Make it quick. I’ll be questioning our guest myself soon.”
Brad didn’t wait. He stepped behind Raines, unsnapped the stun baton, and with a quick breath, swung hard.
The baton cracked against the back of Raines’s neck. The commander crumpled without a sound, hitting the console on the way down. Brad dragged him aside and propped him behind the desk.
“Permission denied,” he muttered.
Brad slid into Raines’s seat and got to work. Eve’s preloaded hacks were already waiting. He triggered the first: a fake biohazard breach in the research wing. Red alerts flashed across half the monitors. Klaxons wailed. Cameras showed lockdowns and automatic blast doors sealing tight.
Next: a fake intruder alert in the east hangar. Eve’s looping footage showed armed figures breaching the perimeter. More sirens. More chaos.
The control room bathed in flashing red light. A robotic voice began its loop: Warning. Security breach detected. All units to standby…
Brad moved fast, locking the command room doors, sealing himself in. Using Raines’s credentials, he disabled several cameras along Eve’s expected path and unlocked Cell 18B.
Cherry.
Brad spotted her location light blink green.
He grabbed a guard radio, tuning in just enough to hear panicked voices:
“…hangar breach—bio wing locked down—what’s happening?!”
Brad silenced the feed and holstered his pistol. Time to move.
He stepped over Raines, swiped the card at the exit, and slipped into the chaos.
The hallway stank of smoke from the fire suppression vents. Lights pulsed red. Two guards sprinted past him without a glance. Everyone was chasing ghosts.
Brad tapped his earpiece. “Raines is down. Chaos in full swing. I’m heading to Cherry.”
A beat of static. Then Eve: “Copy that. See you there.”
Brad pushed forward, the roar of alarms behind him, and Lisa’s voice echoing in his memory.
The sun is coming out.
Ghost in the System
Eve waited in the shadows, still as a statue. Two guards rushed past, pulled by the alarms. She didn’t move until their footsteps faded.
Then she was gone—slipping down the corridor like smoke.
Red emergency lights flashed overhead. The facility was in full panic, thanks to Brad. Sirens blared, cameras glitched, voices barked orders over open comms. It was perfect.
Eve kept low, avoiding sensors and swinging cameras. The network disruption Brad triggered gave her just enough space. She reached the detention wing—Cherry’s location—marked by a thick, half-opened door. Brad had done his part.
She slipped inside.
Rows of cells lined the corridor, each sealed tight. Most were locked—red lights glowing above the doors. One near the end blinked green: 18B.
Cherry.
A guard stood nearby, distracted by the commotion.
Eve moved in.
One hit—fast and silent. She slammed the guard into the wall and zapped him with her stun device. He dropped. She dragged him aside, grabbed his keycard, and approached the door.
Inside, Cherry sat on the floor, arms wrapped around her knees. Her pink hair stood out like a flare in the dim lighting. She looked up and blinked in disbelief.
Eve held a finger to her lips. Swiped the card.
The door opened. Cherry stood slowly, like she couldn’t believe it was real.
“Eve…?” she breathed.
“I’ve got you. Can you walk?”
Cherry nodded, shaky but alert. “They roughed me up, but I’m okay.” She stepped into Eve’s arms, hugging her tight. “Where’s Lisa?”
“She got herself captured. It’s part of the plan. Brad’s here too.”
Eve’s earpiece crackled. Brad’s voice: “Approaching 18B.”
Eve replied softly, “Cherry’s safe. We’re ready.”
Brad appeared seconds later, jogging toward them.
“Good to see you, Cherry,” he said, eyes scanning her quickly.
“Better now,” she said, managing a crooked smile.
“We’re not done. Lisa’s still in the high-security wing.”
Eve nodded. “Let’s move.”
Cherry grabbed the downed guard’s rifle, holding it like it might bite. She wasn’t a fighter, but she wasn’t backing down either.
Brad took the lead. “Stay low. Stay close.”
They slipped into the corridor as alarms screamed around them. The facility was burning in confusion—but they had one goal left.
Get Lisa.
Race for Freedom –
The route to Lisa’s wing was a maze of red lights, smoke, and confusion. Brad led fast and sharp, Eve and Cherry close behind. Alarms still blared. Guards ran everywhere—none paying attention to the trio slipping between shadows.
At the entrance to the high-security wing, they hit their first block: a steel slab door locked down tight.
Brad swiped Raines’s card.
Nothing.
He cursed. Then, mercifully, the light blinked green. Door opened.
They slipped into the atrium—metal and glass, hallways branching in every direction. The sign for “Cells A1–A10” pointed left. Brad barely took two steps before a turret dropped from the ceiling.
“Down!” he shouted, yanking Eve and Cherry behind a pillar as plasma fire lit up the corridor.
Eve mouthed a countdown—three fingers.
On “one,” she and Brad sprang from either side, guns blazing. The turret sparked and whined, then folded back into the ceiling in a cloud of smoke.
“Clear,” Eve called, already moving.
They ran down the cell block, checking each window. A7—there she was. Lisa, slumped at the door, gas curling up around her from the vents.
“Gas,” Brad muttered, trying the card again. Locked.
“I can hack it,” Cherry said, already at the panel. She pulled out Eve’s device and started tapping.
Inside, Lisa coughed, sliding down the wall. Eve banged on the glass. “Lisa, stay with us!”
Lisa raised her head and tried to smile. Brad stood ready, pistol raised, watching the corridor.
“Come on, Cherry,” he said, voice tight.
“I’m trying!”
A spark. Then—click.
The door unlocked.
Eve rushed in. The gas hit her nose like bleach. She and Brad dragged Lisa out into the hallway, coughing hard. Lisa’s eyes fluttered.
“You came,” she whispered.
“We never left,” Eve said, holding her tight.
Lisa saw Cherry and laughed weakly. “You okay?”
“Thanks to you,” Cherry said, grabbing her hand.
Footsteps pounded from around the corner. Brad stepped forward, firing two warning shots. “Move!”
Eve helped Lisa up. Cherry grabbed her rifle. They ran.
The guards behind them shouted and scattered. But then—another figure stepped out from a side hall.
Dressed in full guard armor, helmet under his arm.
Artimus.
“Took you long enough,” Brad muttered, grinning.
Artimus tossed him a wink. “Had to find the props.” He pulled two small black grenades from his belt.
“EMP pulses. This’ll fry their surveillance for good.”
He tossed one down the hall behind them. It exploded with a dull pop—no fire, just a ripple in the air. Lights flickered and went dark. Systems went silent.
He lobbed the second toward the main control hub.
“That should do it.”
“Let’s go,” Brad said.
They ducked into the maintenance hatch—same way Lisa had come in. Artimus sealed the door behind them.
In the quiet tunnel, they finally paused. Lisa leaned on Eve. Cherry breathed hard. Brad checked their rear. Artimus adjusted his armor.
No words needed. They were together.
Alive.
Free.
Lakeside
The sky was beginning to soften into late afternoon light, casting a shimmer across the lake. Eve and Cherry walked slowly along the edge of the water, the chaos behind them now a memory clinging to their clothes but no longer weighing down their steps.
Eve glanced sideways, a small smile playing on her lips. “You know… I feel like I already knew you. I read all your books. And after everything—we were basically in each other’s heads for days. Kind of a wild way to start a friendship.”
Cherry gave a soft laugh through her nose, then looked down, quiet.
Eve gently placed a hand on her shoulder. “I know what it was like in there. And if you ever want to talk… I’m here. Always. We actually have a lot in common, you and I.”
Cherry stopped walking. Her eyes filled suddenly, and she wiped at them without apology. “You’re the first person I’ve ever felt really gets me,” she said, voice cracking. “I didn’t even think that was possible.”
Eve nodded. “No relationship is perfect. I’ve learned that the hard way.” She looked out across the water. “But the trick is to keep trying—with the people who actually love you. Keep your heart open, even when it’s hard.”
She glanced back at Cherry, her voice softening. “And for the record, I think you’re a total badass. Way more than I ever was at your age.”
Cherry gave a tearful laugh. “I guess… I’m kinda surprised myself.”
Eve smiled. “I’m starting to feel a lot better about your generation.”
The two of them kept walking, their conversation drifting into quieter tones, mixing with the sound of breeze and lapping water. The world wasn’t fixed yet, but in this moment, something felt whole.
The Party
The music was bumping. Lights strung through the trees cast a soft glow over the clearing, and the air buzzed with laughter, rhythm, and the sweet relief of freedom. Buzz knew how to throw a party—and after everything, they needed this.
People danced with drinks in hand, hugging, spinning, howling at the sky. Eve stepped into the middle of the circle, barefoot, her hair loose and wild, and began to move.
She danced without hesitation, hitting all the latest moves with that half-shy, half-confident style that made everyone cheer. Someone whistled. Others clapped in rhythm.
Eve reached for Cherry, who hesitated for only a second before jumping in. The two moved like they’d known each other forever, twirling and laughing, Cherry’s pink hair catching the light.
Then, of course—Artimus. He slid into the circle with exaggerated grace, doing some bizarre fusion of hip-hop and interpretive dance that had everyone cracking up. He leaned into it, chest puffed, limbs flailing with intention.
And then Lisa stepped in.
She took the center without a word. The music shifted beat—and her body followed. Her hips moved in ways no one expected. Smooth. Controlled. Unapologetically alive.
Gasps turned into roars of laughter and awe.
“Holy—” someone shouted, while another just threw their hands in the air.
Then Brad couldn’t help himself. He stormed into the circle and started mimicking Lisa’s moves—but with extra, ridiculous flair. His butt wobbled, twisted, and somehow did something no one had names for.
People doubled over.
Lisa laughed so hard she could barely stay on her feet. Eve grabbed her by the waist, both of them in tears. Cherry was leaning against Artimus to catch her breath.
In that moment, everything was pure frequency. Joy turned into light. Movement turned into song.
People watching must have wondered—how could it get better than this?
But no one asked aloud. They were too busy dancing.
Epilogue – The Wink
It was so nice to finally relax—free at last. Freedom, we realized, is a state of mind. And we had exercised that state under impossible pressure, lifting iron through storms both seen and unseen. We should be superhuman by now, I thought.
Then a quieter truth whispered: I have no idea how to be now.
Yes, I do.
I’m going to relax. I’m going to have fun. I’m going to invite our new friends—like Brad. My god, we have friends now. The best kind. And we cultivated that. We chose that.
As we sat in the tall grass behind the sanctuary, laughter still echoing in the walls, I looked up. At the same time, Eve and Artimus lifted their eyes too.
.
.