Chapter 22: Phase Two Begins
The black SUV vanished into the night before Damien or Ariana noticed it.
The city lights reflected on the wet streets as the mysterious driver made a single phone call.
"They're together," he said.
"They've accepted the future Richard wanted."
A distorted voice answered from the speaker.
"Then Phase Two begins immediately."
The line went dead.
The driver smiled.
"Goodbye, Mr. Blackwood."
---
A Peaceful Morning
The following morning, Ariana returned to the hospital for her first shift in weeks.
Her colleagues greeted her with warm smiles.
Sophia rushed over and hugged her tightly.
"You scared all of us!"
Ariana laughed softly.
"I'm sorry."
"I didn't mean to."
Dr. Ethan Morris approached with a patient file in his hand.
"It's good to have you
