Soon after, we placed a portal path down on the island to allow Elsie & the support squad to reach us. While they rounded up the members of 『The Evolution Protocol』, we went back to the hub and were met by Riley, Mr Noble (our boss), and 4 fresh cups of delicious herbal tea.

"Good work, squad, you've made an amazing bust."

"Good lord, Brandon, you make them sound like 『The Knights』. Eurgh."

"Ah, yes. Sorry. But anyway, you guys go get some rest, we'll keep you posted with what we learn about this group."

"Gladly. I need to go get a new hoodie, this one shrunk from the overclocking - it's no longer oversized," he frowned. "Oh, and Jan, we are definitely trying that mind-meld again. It was fun to see how much you love Naomi," he smirked, as he ran out of the building, leaving Nay holding my bright red hand.

A case of content theft: this narrative is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.

"Why don't we give these two a moment," Alix suggested between sips, "I might as well upload my recording of the fight, while I'm here."

"Good idea. Come join us for the meeting at 5, though, girls?" Mr Noble said.

"We're allowed to join!?" Nay exclaimed.

"Of course, you've more than proven yourselves." Riley proclaimed. "Oh, and Janet," they said, placing a hand on my shoulder, with a soft smile, "I'm proud of you."

The moment they turned the corner, we ecstatically embraced, and I lifted my Angel into the air.

"Nay..." I started to write, as I placed her feet back on the ground, "may I have your hand?"

When she looked down, a black path (with specs of white, like stars) spun in my hand.

"Of course, my dear."

Our minds fused and became one. All my fears, all my insecurites were on display. There was no more hiding.

I was scared (of course) but after almost dying, I had the confidence to do it. And so, with a big gulp, I let her in:

「Naomi Johnson, I...」

「I know, Janet Miyazaki. I love you too.」