Chapter 9: Phoenix Rising
208words
"Pain is temporary," I replied, my resolve unwavering.
The weeks of recovery were brutal. Bandages, swelling, the inability to recognize myself—it was both physical agony and emotional liberation. I was shedding my skin, burning away the past.
Jack visited daily, bringing books, smoothies, and quiet company. The first time he saw my unveiled face, something flickered in his eyes.
"What?" I asked, suddenly self-conscious.
"Nothing," he said quickly. Then, more softly: "You're beautiful. Different, but still you somehow."
Our training regimen was relentless. Combat skills, business acumen, social engineering—Jack was a demanding teacher.
"Again," he insisted after I failed to flip him for the twelfth time.
"I can't," I panted, muscles screaming.
"Davis won't give you a break. Neither will I."
When I finally succeeded, pinning him to the mat, our faces inches apart, both breathing hard, something electric passed between us. For a moment, neither of us moved.
"Good," he finally said, his voice rougher than usual. "Tomorrow we work on your corporate takeover strategy."
As he helped me up, his touch lingered longer than necessary.
