5. Sophia
FIVE
Sophia
When we finally head outside, I stop to take a deep breath. Crisp, fresh morning air fills my lungs, bringing with it a sense of freedom I haven’t known in years. My chest tightens, and tears prick at the corners of my eyes.
Standing here without a guard feels like an impossible dream come true, yet the weight of captivity remains a heavy burden to bear. I dare not let it be replaced by tentative hope, but it’s hard not to want to believe.
For the first time in a long while, the sun warms my skin without fear. The gentle breeze carries the scent of flowers and freshly cut grass to flood my senses. I soak it all in, every detail, every sensation.
I close my eyes and let the moment wash over me, savoring the simple act of standing here, free and unshackled. A small, genuine smile spreads across my face, a rare and precious gift I allow myself to enjoy.
This is what it feels like to be free.
To have choices.
To have a life that is mine to live.
I embrace the emotion fully, letting it seep into my soul, even as a cautious voice in the back of my mind reminds me this moment is fleeting. For now, however, I choose to live in the moment, soaking up the sun’s warmth, the gentle whisper of the breeze, and the sweet scent of flowers and freshly cut grass.
Opening my eyes, I find Blake standing there, watching me. His gaze is gentle, filled with understanding, and something deeper, something that makes my heart flutter.
“Ready to see more?” His voice is soft, his hand reaching out to me.
He pulls me to him, his arm wrapping around my shoulder. The warmth of his touch is reassuring, a silent promise that he’s here for me and that I’m not alone.
Together, we walk into this new world, side by side, with hope tentatively blossoming in my heart.
I keep close to Blake, making sure I’m always touching him at some point. As we walk, my fingers brush against his arm and then linger on his back, a constant reminder of my presence as I develop a connection between us.
Today will be interesting, and I intend to make the most of every moment.
I turn to Blake, a mischievous grin spreading across my face. “Can I drive? I’ve never driven a golf cart before.”
“You’ve never driven a golf cart?” Blake raises an eyebrow, a smile tugging at the corner of his mouth.
“Actually, I’ve never driven anything before.”
His eyes widen in surprise, but he laughs and steps out of the driver’s seat, gesturing for me to take his place.
“Alright, let’s see what you’ve got.”
I slide into the seat and grip the steering wheel with excitement and nervousness. As soon as I press the pedal, the cart lurches forward, and I let out a delighted squeal.
“Careful.” Blake chuckles, holding onto the handrail.
We zoom along a path, the wind whipping through my hair as I navigate the twists and turns. My laughter fills the air, giddy and unrestrained. The sense of freedom is exhilarating, and I feel truly alive for the first time in years .
Blake’s laughter joins mine, and he points out different landmarks as we pass by.
“That’s the training field… And over there is the gym.”
I make a sharp turn, and he grabs onto the rail, his eyes wide with mock fear.
“Hey, take it easy, speed racer.”
“Sorry. This is just so much fun.” I slow down, trying to suppress my giggles.
“Just keep your eyes on the road,” he teases, still smiling.
We continue our joyride, the scenery blurring as we zip along. The weight of the past starts to lift, replaced by the simple joy of living in the moment.
“This place is huge.” My eyes are wide as I take in the sprawling campus. “How many acres did you say it was?”
“Several thousand. It’s a secure facility, so we need the space.”
“And it’s all Guardian property? Right up to the coast?” I file away the information.
“Not quite,” Blake replies, his tone measured. “There’s a road and some private properties along the cliffs, but we have agreements to ensure security.”
As we cruise the winding paths, I marvel at the contrast between the rugged landscape and the sleek, modern buildings that dot the property. People in various uniforms and casual wear walk, bike, or drive by in other golf carts, all seeming to have a purpose, a place to be.
“Where to next?” I lean slightly into Blake. It’s not overt, but the cart isn’t very wide. I take advantage of every opportunity to brush against him.
“How about the tech facility?” He points toward a cluster of impressive buildings. “That large glass and steel structure is our tech center. It’s where most of our intelligence and communications work happens.”
I whistle appreciatively.
“Impressive. Do you spend much time there?”
“Not personally, no. That’s more Mitzy’s domain, but it’s crucial to our operations.” Blake shakes his head .
We continue, passing by several other buildings. Blake points out the cafeteria, a surprisingly upscale-looking establishment, and a more casual burger joint and pizza place.
“You guys eat well here.” I try to keep the envy out of my voice. After years of meager rations and whatever scraps I could scrounge, the idea of such abundance is overwhelming.
“We believe in taking care of our people. You’re welcome to eat at any of these places, by the way. Your Guardian ID will cover all your meals.” Blake’s expression softens slightly.
“Guardian ID?”
“Everyone has one. It’s one of our stops.”
The next stop on our tour leaves me speechless. The gymnasium looms before us, a colossal structure that rivals any professional sports arena I’ve ever seen.
“ This —is a gym?” It’s impossible to keep the awe from my voice. “It’s the size of a football field.”
“Go large or go home.” Blake’s laughter is a thing of beauty. “It’s where we do most of our physical training. There are various training areas set up. A track around the perimeter, sparring mats, and weight training equipment. We have a rock wall that spans the entire length and scaffolding overhead to practice our rope skills.”
“Rope skills?”
“Like rappelling out of a helicopter… Stuff like that.”
I spin slowly, taking it all in. The sheer scale of the place is mind-boggling. He’s right about the climbing wall. An entire wall is devoted to a massive structure while scaffolding and obstacle courses fill other areas.
“And all of this is just for Guardian use?” My mind can barely take it all in.
“Primarily, yes,” Blake confirms. “Though sometimes we host joint training exercises with other agencies.”
As we exit the gym, a row of smaller, more utilitarian buildings catches my eye. “What are those?”
“Those are the team bullpens,” Blake explains. Each Guardian team—Alpha, Bravo, Charlie, and Delta—has its own dedicated space. It’s where we store our gear, plan missions, and other such activities.”
“So, that’s where you work most of the time?” I try to appear casual as I file away this information.
“When we’re not in the field, yeah.” He glances at his watch. “Speaking of which, I need to check in with my team soon.”
“Could I come with you?” My heart races at the thought of being left alone. “I’d love to see where you work.”
“Non-team members aren’t allowed inside the bullpens,” he says slowly. “But… There’s a conference room nearby where you could wait. If you want.”
“That would be perfect. Thank you.” I beam at him, relief flooding through me.
I spot a familiar face in the distance as we approach the building. My old friend Jenna—the woman I betrayed—stands outside an empty storefront, gesturing animatedly to a man who looks exactly like Blake.
“Blake, look.” I point toward Jenna and Carter. “It’s Jenna. Do you think we could stop and say hello?”
“Absolutely.”
As we approach, Jenna’s face lights up with recognition.
“Sophia.” She waves enthusiastically. “I was hoping I’d run into you soon.”
We climb out of the cart, and I’m immediately enveloped in a warm hug. The familiar scent of Jenna’s perfume—a light, floral fragrance—brings back a flood of memories, both good and beyond painful.
“It’s so good to see you.” I’m suddenly blinking back tears.
“You look amazing.” Jenna pulls back, her hands on my shoulders as she looks me over. “How are you settling in?”
“It’s a lot to take in,” I admit. “Blake’s been showing me around.”
“That’s great.” Jenna’s gaze flicks to Blake. “Blake’s one of the best.”
“So, what’s all this?” I gesture to the empty building behind her.
“Oh, it’s wonderful.” Jenna’s excitement returns in full force. “ Guardian HRS is letting me open a coffee shop here at HQ. Since I had to give up my old place for witness protection, they thought this would be a good way for me to keep busy and feel useful.”
The words hit me like a slap in the face.
While I was enduring years of captivity and abuse, Jenna was living a normal life, running a successful coffee shop. And now, even in hiding, she’s given opportunities I can only imagine. I push the bitter thoughts aside, forcing enthusiasm into my voice.
“That’s amazing. I’m so happy for you.”
“Thanks.” Jenna beams. “Maybe you’d like to help out? Once we get things up and running, of course. It could be fun.”
“That’s really sweet of you to offer,” I say slowly. “Let me think about it, okay? I’m still getting my bearings here.”
“Of course, no pressure.” Jenna’s smile dims slightly. “Just know the offer’s open if you want it.”
We say our goodbyes and I climb back onto the golf cart.
“Jenna seems really happy.” I smooth my hair back, trying to keep my voice casual.
“We’re glad we can give her a chance at a normal life.” Blake hops into the driver’s seat, glancing at me with a playful grin.
“Hey, I thought I was gonna drive,” I protest, a mock pout forming on my lips.
“You’ve abused this poor cart enough today.” He winks as he starts the engine.
As we approach the Guardian’s building, a growing sense of isolation wraps around me. Despite the tour and seeing Jenna, my outsider status is glaringly apparent.
I don’t belong here, not really. I’m a guest at best and a burden at worst.
But as Blake helps me out of the cart, his hand is warm and steady on mine. I push the ugly thoughts aside. I have a purpose here, a mission of my own, and I’m determined to see it through, no matter what it takes.
“Are you ready to meet the team?” A hint of a smile plays on his lips .
“Lead the way.” I square my shoulders, summoning every ounce of confidence I can muster.