Ch. 15: A Wolf's Support

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It's been a couple days since Dr. Oliver left. I had opened up more to my friends about the nightmares I've been having, and they were all supportive. However, I still kept some things to myself, like the mysterious Ranger I'd seen. He's shown up in my dreams a total of four times now, and I'm no closer to understanding who he is. I also kept most of the torture Scrozzle put me through to myself, not yet ready to reveal that to anyone, either. Now, it was another day at Grid Battleforce, and I found myself watching as Nate and Zoey interviewed a potential candidate named Megan for the position of Nate's lab assistant. Nate had been looking for someone to help him with his research and experiments, and Megan was the latest applicant.

I observed from a distance as Nate explained the kind of work they did in the lab, mentioning that he was currently working on building new equipment, like the Cheetah Claws for the Red Ranger. Megan raised an eyebrow at the mention of the Cheetah Claws, her expression critical. "Well, it's all very impressive," Megan commented, her tone laced with skepticism. "But I hope you're not wasting too much time on these projects when there are more pressing matters at hand."

Nate exchanged a quick glance with Zoey before responding, "We prioritize our duties, of course. But innovation is a vital part of our work."

Megan's critical gaze shifted towards me, Ben, and Betty, who were currently testing the Cheetah Claws nearby. Her lips curled into a disapproving frown as she watched us.

"What are they doing over there?" she asked, her voice tinged with judgment.

"They're testing the Cheetah Claws," Zoey explained, her tone remaining diplomatic. "We're always looking for ways to enhance our Ranger gear."

Megan's disapproval seemed to intensify. She crossed her arms, casting another scrutinizing glance in our direction. "I see."

As the interview continued, it became apparent that Megan had reservations about the team and our work. Her criticism and skepticism were evident in her responses, and it was clear that she held a different perspective on what was important. Finally, Megan excused herself, leaving Nate and Zoey hesitant about hiring her for the lab assistant position. I watched her go, sensing the tension that lingered in the air. Megan had left with a vow to become Nate's new lab assistant, determined to prove herself after the less-than-enthusiastic impression she had left.

Later that evening, outside a movie theater, Zoey and I had just finished purchasing tickets to see "Revenge of the Hydra Worm," one of our favorite movie franchises. To our surprise, we spotted Nate in line, waiting to see the same film.

"Hey, Nate!" Zoey called out as we approached. He turned and smiled, greeting us with genuine enthusiasm.

"Hey, guys! You're here for the movie too?" Nate asked, his excitement matching ours.

"Absolutely," I replied, my own enthusiasm bubbling to the surface. "We love the Hydra Worm movies."

As we chatted, I couldn't help but notice the subtle signs of chemistry between Nate and Zoey. The way they laughed together, the shared excitement about the movie, the comfortable way they stood close to each other – it was all there, right in front of me. I had seen the sparks between them before, but now, it seemed like something more. Suddenly, I received a text message on my phone, and I quickly glanced at the screen. It was just a random message from a friend, but I seized the opportunity to excuse myself.

"Oh, sorry, guys," I said, feigning surprise as I read the message. "My mom needs my help with something at Tech-tonic International. I'll catch up with you later." Nate and Zoey exchanged a knowing look, and I could practically hear the unspoken conversation between them. It was a chance for them to have some time alone, and I was more than happy to give them that space.

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