Rogue | Group B → The Maze Runner¹

ii.nine

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● [ ix . the next evening ]

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IN THE LATE evening, after most Glenners had already feasted, Rogue sat with Ada, Hashslinger, Florence, and Sonya in the warmth of the Kitchens. They each waited for Rachel to return from the Pit, only minutes away from her release.

The room was filled with the sound of their laughter, and the rich aroma of chicken broth lingered in the air. The girls spoke of Rachel's new telepathy with amusement.

'You have got to be kidding me,' Rogue said, stifling her laughter as the others quieted down.
'Swear on my life,' Hashslinger replied, holding her palms forward in surrender. 'Harriet said so herself. The girl's convinced she can hear that guy in her head. Says his name's Aris... or Harris.' Hashslinger threw her hands up in defeat.

'I mean... surely something's not right there,' Florence said. 'She must have a screw loose or... or maybe just a thirst for the crazies.'
'If it's true, I'd rather ignore it,' Ada added. 'I'm zonked! If I have to hear one more person go through the crazies, I'm quitting and becoming a Clogger.' She glanced at Sonya, who was sipping at her soup. 'No offence, sweet girl.'

'None taken,' Sonya replied with a chuckle. Although she was fit enough to eat, talk, and do pretty much everything else, she had been sentenced to a few more days of relaxation in the Ward — Harriet's command. Florence and Ada had snuck her out for a late-night, secret dinner, though. It was nice to see her normal again.

Rogue turned to her, curious. 'Son, do you remember what you said last night? About the boy, and... being careful with him?'

Sonya's laughter faded a bit, her expression sinking. 'I remember saying it, but I don't really remember why. It sort of felt like I was somewhere else,' she replied with a shrug. 'Everything's kinda fading now. That's a good sign, right?' she asked, looking to Florence for reassurance.
Florence nodded. 'Yes. Very good.'

Just then, Rachel burst through the door to the Kitchens, her presence a whirlwind of energy. Before she could say anything, Hashslinger leaned back, pointing to the steaming hot bowl on the counter. 'Left you some scran, Blondie,' she said with a grin.

Rachel rushed forward, her face pale and eyes wide with hunger. She grabbed the bowl and brought it to the table, waving her hands as she set it down. The soup was still hot. She muttered a 'thanks' before tearing at the bread and devouring the meal in seconds. The girls watched in wonder as she scoffed her food down. Rogue, unable to contain her laughter, patted Rachel on the back. 'Slow down, finchface. You're gonna choke.'

Rachel finished, wiping her mouth with the back of her hand. 'Jeez, Newbie,' Hashslinger said. 'I left you the big bowl, too.'
Rachel smiled sheepishly. 'Sorry,' she replied, sinking back into her chair and placing her hand on her stomach.