Page 101 of Fractured Future

“That’s not even a marathon.”

“It’s damn well close to one.” Warner narrows his eyes on me. “What’s going on in that head of yours?”

When I don’t entertain his prying, Hyland adds to the interrogation.

“Bloody lunatic didn’t even stop for a water break. She was zoned right out.”

“Em!” Warner gasps.

“Thanks,” I snap at Hyland.

“It’s the truth.” He shrugs.

“I can look after myself!”

“But this isn’t healthy,” Warner reasons like I’m a pouting child. “If you’re working through stuff… then you need to talk to someone.”

“How many ways can I tell you to fuck off?” I look between the two men. “I already have a very pissed off brother upstairs, waiting to scream at me some more.”

Before either of them can respond, I silence them with a caustic glare. I’m not here to be lectured about my mental health. They can stick their concern up their asses.

“Your security clearance came through.” Warner lifts the stack of folded boxes. “The directors have approved your appointment to our team as a new recruit.”

Whistling, Hyland braces his hands on his hips. “Well, fuck. This is actually happening.”

“Yep,” Warner confirms, still focused on me. “I’m here so we can pack your stuff.”

“Pack… my stuff?” I squint at him.

“All teams live together. You’re moving into the penthouse to commence your training.”

When I glance between them and see no hint of a joke, I realise they’re deadly serious.

“You want me to live with you three?”

“Want is a strong word,” Hyland grumbles. “Give me the damn boxes.”

Snatching the stack that Warner hands over, he stomps inside Tom’s apartment building. I’m left staring at his wide, taut back and loose bun disappearing inside.

“He’s clearly thrilled by the idea.”

“Ignore him,” he advises.

“That’s a little challenging when he follows me everywhere like a lost fucking puppy.”

Warner shifts down a step to move closer to me. “Hyland would have us all wrapped in bubble wrap and placed in storage if it kept us safe.”

“Fantastic,” I drone.

“He’s harmless, really. His bark’s worse than his bite.”

“And I’m supposed to want to live with that?”

“No. You’re not.” Warner shrugs. “But it’s the rules, Em. We train together, work together, live together. That’s what makes our teams so strong.”

“What other rules have I signed up for without knowing?”

“Beyond a full physical eval and mandatory therapy with the company shrink?”