It is with effort that I open my eyelids to return from the magical dreamland I’m floating in. Sunshine filters through the treetops, casting gentle renditions of ruffled leaves on the treehouse walls. Cocooned in cozy blankets on the fur rug, I slowly come to, stretching my arms overhead. The fire has gone cold, and I’m struck by the silence, the lack of static in the room. I bolt upright, the night rushing back to me. A quick survey of the space confirms I’m alone.

My stomach churns.

Rushing to the radio, I find no information. The dial is turned to off. Did I sleep through the message transmission? Why didn’t Garrett wake me up? Hands shaking, I ransack the treehouse, knowing he’s taken the algorithm and isn’t coming back. The only evidence I find that Garrett was here is my pink Ring Around the Rosie dress draped over the couch.

He delivered the algorithm without me… Crumpling into a ball, I barricade my mind against the memories—his lips caressing mine, fingers grazing my skin, the inexplicable bond that tied us together. I press my forehead to my knees. So much for being a team… The tears flow, my aching throat sobbing out the betrayal. Is anything real? Hiccupping, I gasp for breath, the fireplace blurring before me. Is anyone loyal?

I wallow for a few minutes, caught in a self-loathing loop, recalling the night. His confession. What were my instincts? The answer comes easily. I believed him. And I trust myself. I’ve never felt as complete—whole—as I did last night. Taking a deep breath, I force myself to stop thinking the worst—to stop thinking everything is about me—and pull myself together. After I splash water on my face, I put on the pink dress and plot my next move.

There must be an explanation. He must have been ordered to go alone. I check my watch. 8:30… Is he still undercover? Could he be at breakfast with Nicki? For all she knows, he was taking care of me last night… Remembering, my cheeks burn. Maybe he’s coming back.

Two hours later, I’m still pacing the floor, beginning to lose hope.

Shoving my hand into my right pocket, I plop onto the couch. My fingers connect with a paper square, and I pull out the note from Nash and unfold it.

We belong in nature. Among the Appalachian oaks where water falls from stone. I’ll wait for you.

Bang, bang, bang.

A fist pounds outside the treehouse door, and I jump. Rayelle. I can’t help wishing it was Garrett on the other side, but my instincts tell me it isn’t. I creep to the door, peek out the window, and confirm Rayelle is on the other side.

Shoving the note into my pocket, I throw open the door. “I’m so happy to see you.” I hug her.