Page 35 of Hidden Echoes

Then, Mia speaks.

"Does it hurt?" I ask.

She shrugs. "I’ve felt worse."

Not the answer I wanted.

But I keep going.

I lose myself in the details—the curve of the serpents, the piercing stare of Medusa’s eyes. It’s coming together, piece by piece.

Then, Mia’s voice cuts through the quiet.

"Do you really believe that?"

I pause. "Believe what?"

She tilts her head slightly. "That I can choose."

I exhale.

"Yes, Mia. I believe it."

She watches me for a long time. Then, out of nowhere—

She smiles.

Not small. Not hesitant.

A real, genuine smile.

And for the first time, I realize something.

Ilikeher smiles.

CHAPTER 9

MIA

I apply some ointment to new my tattoo, though it's almost fully healed at this point.

Zane says I'm pretty good at this process.

Things turned out alright in the end after Zane called Charlie using a cool device called a cell phone. She checked me out over video chat, adjusted my medication, and I felt much better after a few days.

She also referred me to Dr. Giggles, as I like to call him because he never laughs at my dry humor during our sessions.

What I love most about Los Angeles is how I can go out. Zane got me one of those phones so I can stay connected with him, but what makes me happiest is knowing he never stops me from exploring.

I avoid crowded places because they give me headaches, and being in the sun too much makes my skin burn like crazy. Charlie explained it’s due to Piebaldism, which is pretty common among patients with this condition.

Anyway, Zane got me a phone to keep track of where I am and how I’m doing, but otherwise, I’m free—and that’s really cool.

Every day I spend here, I learn a little more about this world. I just wish One were here so we could experience more of it.

I love the beach.

I love the sun.

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