Sunlight crept through the vents, slicing the darkness with pale gold. Jack blinked awake, instantly aware of the weight on his chest.
Vesper stirred. Her voice was rough. “Still alive?"
He cleared his throat. “Unfortunately."
“Regret kicking in?"
“Like a freight train."
She rolled onto her back, staring at the ceiling. “You can pretend it didn't happen."
“I don't pretend."
A long pause.
She sat up slowly, muscles stiff. “Then let's agree not to discuss it. It was a medical necessity."
He gave a bitter laugh. “That's one way to phrase it."
She reached for her ID band, fingers hesitating. “They'll trace us soon."
“I already called someone," Jack said, pulling on his torn uniform shirt.
Her eyes narrowed. “Who?"
“Dr. Felicia Chen. Biotech unit at the state university. She owes m
