With Zayne away in the territories, Kira and Adelle planned the escape during long walks around the lake.
“I can use Pixi Dust to manipulate the sensors,” Kira said. “One time, and it seems like a normal occurrence. Twice, and they'll know something is wrong. But if I do it every few sectors, we might get away with it.”
“That's good. Zayne's friend thinks he can manipulate a few too.”
“Where does that leave us?”
“The mountains.” Her voice softened. “The same place your mother got caught.”
“I wish I knew how she got out.”
“I've been working on getting that information.” Adelle paused and withdrew her phone, smiling. “They're back.”
“Safe?”
“I don't know, but Brock and Zayne are on their way. Luke is going home.They're all alive.”
“How do you get used to this?” Kira rubbed her arms. She knew little of what Zayne did, just that it involved her mom. “I keep waiting for terrible news.”
“I don't get used to it. It's always hard.”
They both hurried back to the house. Kira struggled with her nerves the entire time Zayne was away, and her heart pounded now. Were they okay? What about her mom?
Once inside, Kira glimpsed both men standing and relief eased through her body. Adelle hugged them while Kira forced herself to stay in place. They looked tired, especially Zayne, but they seemed okay.
She just hoped her mom was too.
Zayne's gaze caught hers, and her stomach flipped. “You get to see your mom over a video call soon. The United and the Phaedra agreed to terms.”
Her hand pushed against her stomach, steadying herself. “Really?”
“Yes. A security team will be in today setting everything up.”
“What's the price? Nothing is free.”
Zayne walked toward her. “I don't know what will come of the meetings over the next few days. Right now, you just get to see her. It's a sign of good-faith negotiations.”
“Negotiations?”
“The Phaedra and the United are at a stalemate. They'll discuss terms for an exchange.”
Though she knew better than to assume anything, foolish and naive hope fluttered inside of her.
“Things didn't go well on your trip,” she whispered.
The satisfied look in Zayne's eyes said enough. He'd made sure of that, hadn't he?
“I don't want you around the team,” he said. “It's a nice day. Spend time outside.”
Kira backed up. “I don't mind that. You two rest. You look worn out.”
The walk outside rejuvenated her so much while she thought of seeing her mom again. That seemed like an impossible wish for so long, even after being captured and learning Mom was alive. What would she say?
Zayne said they were discussing an exchange. Kira couldn't let wild chances soften her to the danger ahead, but her imagination swept her away several times while she walked, thinking of a life in the territories with Mom. She felt likeshe'd never escape Ciondo. Something would always go wrong, like the soldiers attacking right when she believed she'd be free. But what if?
Kira and Mom lost an entire life together, but they might have the chance to start a new one and to know each other again.
After an hour, Adelle met her by the wooden fence surrounding the lake. “It's okay to go inside again.” Her voice sounded strained.
