Total pages in book: 48
Estimated words: 44998 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 225(@200wpm)___ 180(@250wpm)___ 150(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 44998 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 225(@200wpm)___ 180(@250wpm)___ 150(@300wpm)
“So, it’s working? The interface is helping her connect the dots?”
“Most definitely.” Dr. Atkins nods vigorously. “Look here, this highlighted section? Memories. We all recall memories differently, but the brain stores them the same. Some people use images, others smell or sound. For your sister, your voice is the key to unlocking her memory core.”
“That’s amazing.” The progress so far gives me hope Olivia will get better soon and she’ll finally get the life she deserves. When that happens, she won’t have to live in a world where they all still draw breath. She’ll be free and clear to live her life, to enjoy it and thrive.
With this breakthrough, I know what I have to do. The List needs my full attention. “Good job, Atkins.”
“Thank you, Mr. Wolfe. And thank you for this opportunity. This is fascinating, and I have to say that Olivia is a compelling subject.”
“And why is that?”
Dr. Atkins holds up his hands, a hint of defensiveness in his gesture. “What I’m trying to say is, despite being nonverbal, Olivia’s brain is far from atrophied. She’s flexing her mental muscles regularly, keeping them sharp and active. Based on these readings, I’d wager she has a rich, complex inner world. A landscape of thoughts, memories, and emotions.”
I blink, trying to wrap my head around his words. “In plain English, Doc? Break it down for me.”
He leans forward, perched on the edge of his seat, eyes glued to the monitors. “For decades, people believed nonverbal patients were trapped in a mental void. An empty expanse of nothingness. But Olivia? I’d say she’s got a vibrant mind, buzzing with activity. I bet she’s been hearing everything and wanting to respond, but unable to do it.” He taps his temple, his smile wide and eyes sparkling with curiosity. “And that, my friend, is a wonderful thing. It means she’s still in there, fighting to come back to us.”
“I get it,” I reply, my voice a bit too forceful. “Thank you, Doc. Really.” An unexpected wave of feeling crashes over me, throwing me off balance. My heart pounds, but it’s not the usual thrill or anticipation that comes with closing in on a target. No, this feels suspiciously like fear, mixed with an overwhelming sense of hope.
I’ve spent my entire adult life building an empire, amassing the resources—both human and financial—to save my sister. Every decision, every move, every calculated risk has been leading up to this very moment. Dr. Atkins’ revelation hits me like a freight train. I’m close, so damn close to making it a reality. To give Olivia the life she deserves.
Atkins meets my gaze, as if he’s trying to read my thoughts. “Mark my words, Damien. What we’re doing here? It’s groundbreaking. Nobel Prize worthy. No bullshit.” His confidence is evident in his steady voice and direct eye contact. “We’re on the cusp of something extraordinary. You’ll see.”
I nod, a lump forming in my throat. I turn to Olivia, a smile tugging at my lips. “You hear that, sis? You’re amazing. A fighter. Keep pushing, keep holding on.” I lean in, pressing a gentle kiss to her forehead, lingering for a moment as if I could will her back to awareness through the sheer force of love.
“Remarkable,” Atkins murmurs, his focus never leaving the monitors. “Absolutely remarkable.”
My phone buzzes in my pocket, snapping me out of the emotional musing. I fish it out, glancing at the screen. A smirk spreads across my face.
“Good news?” Atkins asks, his eyebrow raises in curiosity.
I scan the message and nod, the weight on my shoulders feeling lighter for a moment. “Very good news. Looks like things are falling into place. I’ll be in touch, Dr. Atkins. Keep up the excellent work.” Without waiting for a response, I walk out of Serenity House with purpose.
Looks like my investment in that pill-popping clerk is paying off. Someone’s digging into my past, just like I expected. Just like I planned. It’s another piece falling into place, another move closer to keeping my promise to Olivia.
One day, she’ll wake up in a world free of the poison that’s controlled us for so long. But before that day comes, there’s still more work to do.
The List is calling.
CHAPTER THIRTEEN
Frankie
I walk inside the precinct feeling good, thanks to the liquid bones, giddy from too many orgasms. The feeling is out of this world. Suddenly I understand those women in the office who can’t stop smiling, who are always perky and smiling and honestly just fucking exhausting.
I feel like one of those women today.
And again, only some of it is because of a man. Well, the truth is that all of it is not because of a man, but two different men. My body feels good, and my mind is clear and focused because of Damien. But the rest? Well, the rest is all professional success because I finally have a lead on our suspect.