Page 15 of Rescuing Sophia

This is what it feels like to be free.

To have choices.

To have a life that is mine to live.

I embrace the emotion fully, letting it seep into my soul, even as a cautious voice in the back of my mind reminds me this moment isfleeting. For now, however, I choose to live in the moment, soaking up the sun’s warmth, the gentle whisper of the breeze, and the sweet scent of flowers and freshly cut grass.

Opening my eyes, I find Blake standing there, watching me. His gaze is gentle, filled with understanding, and something deeper, something that makes my heart flutter.

“Ready to see more?” His voice is soft, his hand reaching out to me.

He pulls me to him, his arm wrapping around my shoulder. The warmth of his touch is reassuring, a silent promise that he’s here for me and that I’m not alone.

Together, we walk into this new world, side by side, with hope tentatively blossoming in my heart.

I keep close to Blake, making sure I’m always touching him at some point. As we walk, my fingers brush against his arm and then linger on his back, a constant reminder of my presence as I develop a connection between us.

Today will be interesting, and I intend to make the most of every moment.

I turn to Blake, a mischievous grin spreading across my face. “Can I drive? I’ve never driven a golf cart before.”

“You’ve never driven a golf cart?” Blake raises an eyebrow, a smile tugging at the corner of his mouth.

“Actually, I’ve never driven anything before.”

His eyes widen in surprise, but he laughs and steps out of the driver’s seat, gesturing for me to take his place.

“Alright, let’s see what you’ve got.”

I slide into the seat and grip the steering wheel with excitement and nervousness. As soon as I press the pedal, the cart lurches forward, and I let out a delighted squeal.

“Careful.” Blake chuckles, holding onto the handrail.

We zoom along a path, the wind whipping through my hair as I navigate the twists and turns. My laughter fills the air, giddy and unrestrained. The sense of freedom is exhilarating, and I feel truly alive for the first time in years.

Blake’s laughter joins mine, and he points out different landmarks as we pass by.

“That’s the training field… And over there is the gym.”

I make a sharp turn, and he grabs onto the rail, his eyes wide with mock fear.

“Hey, take it easy, speed racer.”

“Sorry. This is just so much fun.” I slow down, trying to suppress my giggles.

“Just keep your eyes on the road,” he teases, still smiling.

We continue our joyride, the scenery blurring as we zip along. The weight of the past starts to lift, replaced by the simple joy of living in the moment.

“This place is huge.” My eyes are wide as I take in the sprawling campus. “How many acres did you say it was?”

“Several thousand. It’s a secure facility, so we need the space.”

“And it’s all Guardian property? Right up to the coast?” I file away the information.

“Not quite,” Blake replies, his tone measured. “There’s a road and some private properties along the cliffs, but we have agreements to ensure security.”

As we cruise the winding paths, I marvel at the contrast between the rugged landscape and the sleek, modern buildings that dot the property. People in various uniforms and casual wear walk, bike, or drive by in other golf carts, all seeming to have a purpose, a place to be.

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