Mr. Gray followed Lewis through the portal and then opened up another hole in the universe to send him back in time one full year.

“Don’t tell Josie you’re from the future—not immediately, anyway,” said Mr. Gray. “That sort of thing never goes over very well.”

Lewis nodded absently. “You’re not going to be coming with me this time, are you?” he asked.

Mr. Gray shook his head. “I must stay here for a while and study the changes that have occurred. Find Josie first, and then Landon. Keep them safe. I’ll come back for you when it’s appropriate.”

Lewis nodded. There was no room for error in the challenges ahead. He thought about his family, blissfully unaware of all the hardships his soul had undergone—both in countless past lives and in his present. If he failed, they would never know it. They would forget he ever existed, and then would soon follow in his fate along with the rest of the world.

His resolve was unwavering. Even if his universe wasn’t at stake, Josie was counting on him. He never knew he had the capacity to fall for someone as hard or fast as he had for Josie. Already, he couldn’t imagine his world without her in it. It was like seeing color for the first time. He felt drawn to her as surely as a compass points north.

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A moth to a flame.

“Do you know why I chose you to save your species?” asked Mr. Gray as he dragged his bony fingers effortlessly across the rippling opening of the portal, playing with its energy.

Lewis shook his head.

“You’re the glue,” said Mr. Gray. “The one who holds it all together.” He grinned up at Lewis. “No matter what situation I put you in, all the other Chosen in the time stream are always drawn to you. Fate brings you together and their goals become aligned with your own. It’s a curious thing.”

Lewis raised an inquisitive eyebrow.

“I noticed it long ago when you became best friends with Landon on your first pass at life,” Mr. Gray continued. “Without you, the others always flounder, but throw you into the mix and even though it’s been a rough ride, here you are, still going strong.”

Lewis supposed that was a complement.

“The Agares think you are a simple loose end—an annoyance to be quickly dealt with and forgotten. They are shortsighted. Nona saw your strength, as I do. That’s why she gave you that whistle. The Agares think you’re the ace of spades, but in reality, you’re more than that. You’re a wildcard. Now, go get ‘em!”

Lewis appreciated the pep talk. It did nothing to ease his anxiety, but it was comforting knowing that a semi-omnipotent being believed in him. Mr. Gray bid him farewell and then sent him on his way.

I’m coming, Josie!

He exhaled sharply as he stepped through the portal to his destiny.