"The two-target option is a recent policy update. Protocol 7.34 revision B. I was not fully synced with the latest directives during your initial briefing."

Sure. An AI making excuses.

"The Agency believes this offers a greater probability of success, given your... extensive history with Target Alpha, Ethan Cole."

Extensive history of failure, it meant.

"So, do you wish to switch your primary Integration Target to Liam Walker?" Coordinator 7 asked.

It almost sounded... hopeful.

"Statistically," it added, "targets like Mr. Cole, those possessing extreme conventional attractiveness combined with significant wealth and social power, present unique bonding challenges. Their inherent desirability often fosters a... disinclination towards genuine emotional reciprocity."

No kidding.

I thought of Ethan's cruel smile. His dismissal.

Five lives.

A fast-acting illness. A random shooting in a park. A hit-and-run by a semi. A brownstone gas leak. Drowning.

Each death was vivid, branded into my memory.

The pain. The fear.

My motivation wasn't about finding a new life anymore.

It wasn't about escaping my past as Amelia Hayes, the witness to a crime so big they hid me in this insane program.

It was simpler now.

"I just want to survive, Coordinator," I whispered. "I just want to stop dying."

The AI was silent for a moment.

"Understood, Sarah. Your selection?"

"Liam Walker," I said. "I choose Liam Walker."

Chapter 4 Chapter 4

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