The restraints fell off with a harsh snap. Finally. I rolled my shoulders, the aches and bruises settling into something bearable. Around me, people stood frozen, looking like they’d just been told their worst nightmare had come true. Spoiler alert: It had. For them, anyway. Then I saw her. Damn, she was something. And that look she gave me, it wasn’t fear. Curiosity? Maybe a challenge. I’d definitely take her up on it, but first, I had a date with freedom. I shot her a wink, then bolted. The lab went on full alert, alarms blaring as I barreled through the hallways, scattering guards like bowling pins. They didn’t stand a chance. I blasted through a set of double doors and found myself in a courtyard, the night air hitting my face like a slap of reality. I took a second to breathe it in, fresh air, cold and sharp. Felt good. Better than any fancy cell they could’ve trapped me in. Footsteps echoed behind me, getting closer. I turned and saw her again, the woman from before, striding forward with a look that could burn through steel. I could tell she wasn’t here to flirt. Shame. “Where do you think you’re going, Soldier Boy?” I smirked, hands raised like a show of innocence. “You know me, sweetheart. Just out for a little walk. Stretching my legs.”