Page 16 of Rescuing Sophia

“Where to next?” I lean slightly into Blake. It’s not overt, but the cart isn’t very wide. I take advantage of every opportunity to brush against him.

“How about the tech facility?” He points toward a cluster of impressive buildings. “That large glass and steel structure is our tech center. It’s where most of our intelligence and communications work happens.”

I whistle appreciatively.

“Impressive. Do you spend much time there?”

“Not personally, no. That’s more Mitzy’s domain, but it’s crucial to our operations.” Blake shakes his head.

We continue, passing by several other buildings. Blake points out the cafeteria, a surprisingly upscale-looking establishment, and a more casual burger joint and pizza place.

“You guys eat well here.” I try to keep the envy out of my voice. After years of meager rations and whatever scraps I could scrounge, the idea of such abundance is overwhelming.

“We believe in taking care of our people. You’re welcome to eat at any of these places, by the way. Your Guardian ID will cover all your meals.” Blake’s expression softens slightly.

“Guardian ID?”

“Everyone has one. It’s one of our stops.”

The next stop on our tour leaves me speechless. The gymnasium looms before us, a colossal structure that rivals any professional sports arena I’ve ever seen.

“This—is a gym?” It’s impossible to keep the awe from my voice. “It’s the size of a football field.”

“Go large or go home.” Blake’s laughter is a thing of beauty. “It’s where we do most of our physical training. There are various training areas set up. A track around the perimeter, sparring mats, and weight training equipment. We have a rock wall that spans the entire length and scaffolding overhead to practice our rope skills.”

“Rope skills?”

“Like rappelling out of a helicopter… Stuff like that.”

I spin slowly, taking it all in. The sheer scale of the place is mind-boggling. He’s right about the climbing wall. An entire wall is devoted to a massive structure while scaffolding and obstacle courses fill other areas.

“And all of this is just for Guardian use?” My mind can barely take it all in.

“Primarily, yes,” Blake confirms. “Though sometimes we host joint training exercises with other agencies.”

As we exit the gym, a row of smaller, more utilitarian buildings catches my eye. “What are those?”

“Those are the team bullpens,” Blake explains. Each Guardian team—Alpha, Bravo, Charlie, and Delta—has its own dedicatedspace. It’s where we store our gear, plan missions, and other such activities.”

“So, that’s where you work most of the time?” I try to appear casual as I file away this information.

“When we’re not in the field, yeah.” He glances at his watch. “Speaking of which, I need to check in with my team soon.”

“Could I come with you?” My heart races at the thought of being left alone. “I’d love to see where you work.”

“Non-team members aren’t allowed inside the bullpens,” he says slowly. “But… There’s a conference room nearby where you could wait. If you want.”

“That would be perfect. Thank you.” I beam at him, relief flooding through me.

I spot a familiar face in the distance as we approach the building. My old friend Jenna—the woman I betrayed—stands outside an empty storefront, gesturing animatedly to a man who looks exactly like Blake.

“Blake, look.” I point toward Jenna and Carter. “It’s Jenna. Do you think we could stop and say hello?”

“Absolutely.”

As we approach, Jenna’s face lights up with recognition.

“Sophia.” She waves enthusiastically. “I was hoping I’d run into you soon.”

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