“Apologies,” I mumble.
“No need. Now, the reason is because you haven’t finished your mission yet. It would also make it easier to trace you back to us. We're at a vital point in the original case. I know you’re concerned for both girls, but I can’t risk it.”
“Shit.” I drag my hand down my face. “This is just bitter irony. In order to finish the case, we need into the Morgue. Which also is where Phoenyxx is.”
“I understand the frustration, believe me. Once we find a way into the Morgue, I’ll send you back.”
“What if Phoenyxx returns before then—could I go back? She may know the way to get there.”
“Perhaps. For now, we’ll get every hacker at our disposal on this. It's top priority.”
“I’ll go back and update Thor and the others.”
I have to stop myself from slamming out of the room in a huff. I'm pissed the hell off, and the urge to get back there keeps growing. Dammit! Frustration courses through my veins as I make my way back to the computer room.
Chapter 16
Phoenyxx
I creepto the end of the dark hallway, hoping to get through to the golden-eyed boy. I don’t know why I even care, honestly, but I do. I have no one outside of here. Nothing to lose, that’s for sure. I'm just too much of a fighter to lay down. Sometimes I wish I could stay in a catatonic state forever.
I shake off my gloomy thoughts as I cautiously approach the cage. “Hey,” I call out quietly. “It’s 11—Phoenyxx. Will you come talk to me?”
I wait a minute, then realize that all the cages open during free time. I hesitantly try the door, and it opens. Breathing in, I slowly entering the cell. I lean down, thinking he’s likely under the bed again.
“Hi,” I whisper. “Remember me?”
He scoots forward a bit, golden eyes wide. He's still naked and shivering. I hold out my hand. “What’s your name?”
He shakes his head frantically.
“Okay,” I try again. “What’s your number?”
He goes very still, then lifts a shaky hand, holding up three fingers.
I grin. “Nice to meet you, 3. Would you like some clothes? I can ask the masks, if you want.”
His eyes water, tears slipping down his face. Poor guy, he must be so miserable.
“Can I touch you?” I try, needing to make contact for some inexplicable reason. I’m oddly drawn to this sad boy.
He scoots out from under the bed, not taking his eyes off me. I reach out, touching his shoulder. He makes an odd sound in his throat and propels himself into my arms.
My heart flips a bit, surprised I can still feel anything. I put my arms around him, whispering assurances. “Can you talk?” I ask in a low voice.
He shakes his head again, trembling in my arms. He must be mute. At least he can hear me.
I rock him back and forth, sitting on the cold floor with him. We just sit quietly, until the bonging sound indicates free time is over.
“Shit,” I mutter. I’ve got to get the fuck out of there, quick. “Let me help you onto the bed, 3.” He lets me, sinking down on the mattress. I put my fingers under his chin. “I’ve got to go, but I will be back next free time. Okay?"
He whines, but leans forward, pressing his lips against mine briefly.
Shocked, I look deep into those mesmerizing golden eyes. “I’ll be back, I promise.”
I get up, slipping out the door, moving fast toward my own cell, pushing myself inside just in time.
“Hey, 6?” I call out, hoping she can hear me. I'm in desperate need to talk to anyone besides the fucking masks, plus I want to check in with my new friend.
