Prue got to work checking everything then gently put the wires a millimetre into Edwin’s stomach.

“Ouch!”

“Oh, I’m sorry!”

“I’m kidding. We don’t feel pain, remember?”

“Not a good time for joking, Ed.”

She stopped speaking and concentrated on creating a loop wire. When she was happy, she said, “When the signal is isolated, I’m hoping the machine will read it, but also that you’ll be able to directly feel the memory when the isolated signal is sent back.”

“An interesting thought. There’s only one way to find out. Press the button, Prue.”

For a moment she thought she saw the flicker of nerves in his eyes, but she forced herself to look at the GODAR and focus. Within moments, the frequency was being displayed on the monitor unit. The shape had a different pattern to Luella’s; it had a strong, yet elegant, movement. With a turn of the dial she isolated what she hoped was the history data. The reading fizzed and blurred for a moment, then there was one very thin, clear rise and fall.

She looked keenly at Edwin. “Has anything changed? Edwin, do you feel anything?”

Edwin shook his head.

Prue’s heart sank to the floor. “Of course. It was ridiculous to think it would work on the very first try.”

“I wasn’t shaking my head because I don’t feel anything. I was shaking it because Edwin isn’t my name.”

“What do you mean?” she said in barely a whisper.

“It’s strange. I don’t remember any other details, but suddenly I do remember my name.”

Prue was aghast.

“My name’s Jack. Jack Swift.”

Chapter 23: Confessions

CONFESSIONS

Prue and Edwin made their way out of the factorium. They were both buzzing about the revelation and needed to get some fresh air and take it all in. Edwin hopped across the lawn with extra spring in his paws.

Prue thought that Jack Swift was the most brilliant name and it somehow suited him perfectly.

“I know my name is just one detail to remember, but it feels huge. Like all of a sudden I’ve reclaimed a piece of me.”

“I’m happy for you, Edwin – I mean, Jack. Gosh, what do I call you now?”

“Best stick to Edwin for now or people will start to wonder, and we don’t want the masters to find out about it. And I’ll obviously stick to Frances.”

“Yes, you’re right.”