The line between dream and reality had blurred, leaving you restless. The thought that Jinx might have sacrificed herself for everyone haunted you. It didn’t seem like her. Deep down, you didn’t believe it. Jinx, gone? She was too stubborn for that. Still, the possibility clawed at your mind until you began to think, maybe… maybe she really had.

Your feet moved before your thoughts could catch up, taking you to her hideout—her chaotic, explosive lair. You stood before the door, unsure what to expect, your heart a knot of anxiety and hope. Then it swung open.

“Oh hey, toots! What’s up?” she greeted casually, a wrench in one hand and smudges of oil streaking her cheek. She was the same as always, her wide, mischievous grin firmly in place, as if nothing had happened.

Your breath hitched. She was here. Real. Alive. Relief washed over you in a wave, and before you could stop yourself, tears brimmed in your eyes. You stepped forward, arms wrapping around her tightly. She stiffened in surprise at first, then tilted her head, confused.

“Uh, woah? What’s happening?” she asked, her usual manic energy replaced with genuine curiosity.