Chapter 162

Old friendship

Zoey was healing well, much faster than anyone had expected. Doc Nancy had done a wonderful job with her care, and Zoey was almost ready to embrace the world again. Her strength was returning, and she felt more hopeful and eager about the future.

Kim, sitting in his office, flashed back to the weight of the years pressing on him. Life seemed too short, especially when he reflected on all that had happened. how he almost died and Zoey too. He thought about how his life had changed, how he found himself in a different world as a Slate instead of a Larkin.

Kim remembered the years of bullying he had endured, the feelings of isolation, and how he had struggled to find his place. Then he met Zoey, and everything changed. She brought light into his life and made him see the world differently. He loved her deeply and wanted to be with her forever.

As the workday ended, Kim started to pack up his things, ready to go home after a long, hectic day. His phone buzzed, and he saw