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OCT 27, 28 & 29 2149 DAYS FORTY FIVE, FORTY SIX & FORTY SEVEN ON THE GROUND
A BEAD OF SWEAT SETTLED ON DAKOTA'S BROW AS SHE SLINKED THROUGH THE HALLWAYS AS furtivelyas she knew how; her heart thudding with anxiety as she kept her back pressed to the walls. Though she'd never been an agile person, and was usually quite clumsy, she was nimble on her feet today; sorely aware of what was at stake. The only thing on her mind were the depraved consequences of getting caught. She'd rather die than face the tip of a drill again.
With her fingers sprawled on the cool surface of the concrete walls, she cautiously peeked her head past the corner and into the next corridor; peering around before stepping out from her shelter, despite its obvious vacancy. Each time she dared to check the next passageway, she was certain it would finally be the time where a villain was awaiting her. She repeated the stealthy routine over and over, in disbelief she had almost made it to the dorm without being caught.
Almost.
Only doors away from the craved sanctuary, she was met with an entire parade of guards and officials; the girl freezing as her eyes went round. She gripped tightly onto the scalpel still hiding in her sleeve, knowing she wouldn't be able to outrun them in her state; bracing herself for what would likely be a pathetic and unsuccessful fight against the stouthearted crew.
But before a bloody battle could ensue, the guards paused. Dakota furrowed her brows, but didn't stray from her stance when she realized they were pushing unoccupied wheelchairs in front of them; not a single one reaching for their holsters. Utterly confused, she looked away from them to see none other than president Dante leading the small crowd; the white-haired man blinking in shock at her unexpected presence. It wasn't until Jasper emerged from behind him did the girl's grasp on the blade falter, her jaw hitting the floor as she sucked in a silent gasp.
The boy's face was smothered in tremendous relief, his bottom lip trembling as tears of gratitude and emotion swarmed his eyes. With his head down, arms already outstretched, he hastened over to her; wrapping her up in his arms. She remained frozen in shock a moment longer before she gave into the embrace, hugging him tightly back as a knot tied in her throat; snuggling her head into his lanky figure.
"Oh my God, thank God, oh my God." he breathed repeatedly, speaking into the top of her hat. "I was so worried."
He drew back, leaving his hands on her shoulders so he could keep her still and scan her over for injuries; the girl grinning warmly with a tearful giggle, cheeks damp for what had to be the millionth time that day as she observed his unyieldingly concentrated features.
