Rebel Heart

"It's a local energy grid controller," Lana said. "But it's damaged. I can't pull the data off." She turned off her micro and rose, striding into the bedroom. A few seconds later, he heard the shower.

Leery of the change in her, Brady tucked the two away and crossed to the kitchen. Elise's micro was locked out. There was no way to see what she'd been doing. Too soon, he found out. His personal net vibrated, indicating someone was trying to contact him. Brady tapped it open.

"You paged me?" Tim asked.

Brady froze. "No. I got a page from you, though."

"Well, someone … it was her, wasn't it," Tim said with a sigh. "I had to get her training in hacking fed systems."

"Yeah," Brady agreed, eyes going to Elise's micro. "Tim, she needs to know. I don't like lying to her. I don't think it's worth trying to snow her anymore. And maybe she'll tell you what she won't tell me about what she's carrying west."

"Unfortunately, I think you might be right. Bring her to the comms site. I'll be waiting on this end," Tim directed in resignation. "I'd hoped to have this conversation with her in person, if at all."

"Will do. Brady out."

Brady stared at the door to his bedroom, torn between relief and regret. He hadn't wanted to lie to her about Guardian or Tim. At the same time, Tim was about to bring the rest of her world crashing down around her. He doubted she'd rush into the arms of the Guardian again. Brady wiped his face, preparing himself for a confrontation. He sat down in a chair, waiting.

Lana emerged at last. She crossed her arms when she saw him and wouldn't meet his eyes.

"Looks like it's time for us to talk," he started.

"I don't want to talk. I understand what I need to."

"I don't think you do."

"You and Tim are PMF. He sent you to protect me. You were my Guardian."

Were. The word stung, irritating him.

"I did what I had to," Brady replied. "I will make no apologies for that."

"As I said, I understand," she said. "You lied to me and used me. Both of you."

"Lana," Brady said, rising. It was all he could say. He knew this day would come. He'd done the right thing in protecting her, even if the wounded look on her face made him feel both inadequate and frustrated. "We need to go somewhere. Are you ready?"