**Chicago – Private neuro-lab, 2:44 a.m.**
Arthur lay on the medical table, sensors clamped to his skull, shirt soaked in sweat.
“Pulse rising," said Dr. Kwan, typing rapidly. “Cognitive resistance is high. Use the trigger phrase."
Marco leaned over the mic. “Arthur. Listen to her voice."
The audio began to play—grainy but clear.
**Sophie's voice, recorded six years ago:**
“Do you, Arthur Morgan, promise to love me—beyond the lies, beyond the mission?"
Arthur's eyes snapped open. The table shook beneath him.
More voices layered in—laughs, gasps, whispered vows. The sonogram beep. Her cry before the crash.
His body convulsed.
And then—
A scream ripped from his throat.
---
**Evergreen – Sophie's café, minutes later**
The burner phone lit up.
Arthur: **I remember everything. Al
