Hearts of Steel

Chapter 2

Once they finished their breakfast, Cody and Maxine moved with purpose. They quickly gathered their things, their movements synchronized, their steps light. Their clothes, while simple and understated, were chosen with a practicality that spoke of their training. Cody, always a man of action, had a concealed pistol strapped to his thigh and a set of throwing knives tucked into his boots. Maxine, always a bit more subtle, had a pocket knife concealed beneath her jacket, always ready to be deployed.

They checked their gear, making sure they were prepared for anything.

"Ready?" Cody asked Maxine, his eyes meeting hers.

Cody raised an eyebrow at Maxine, who was wearing a pair of shorts despite the brisk Berlin air. "It's fucking cold out," he said, his voice laced with amusement. "Why are you wearing shorts?"

Maxine shrugged, her face unfazed. "I like the way they look, Cody. Besides, it's not that cold."

"Yeah, well, I'm not sure I'm going to be able to feel my legs if we spend too long out here," Cody said, his gaze lingering on her legs. "We better get to the warehouse before I freeze my ass off."

Maxine smirked, "Don't worry, I brought a spare pair of pants just in case."

They hopped into Marco's sleek black car, the engine purring to life. Marco, as always, kept a watchful eye as he navigated the city's streets.

The warehouse, a massive building that resembled a giant garage, loomed before them. It was a stark contrast to the sleek, modern apartment they'd left behind

Outside, a woman waited by the massive metal doors. She was a vision of punk-rock cool, her short, dark hair punctuated with streaks of crimson. Her eyes were a mesmerizing mix of red and purple, and she wore a black choker adorned with a crescent moon charm. A single black glove covered her hand, its purpose unclear.

Cody couldn't help but feel a sense of intrigue, a hint of danger mixed with a thrill of anticipation. This was the workshop, the rumored haven for weapons and armor, the place where they might find the edge they needed to take down Marcus Brooks.

But before Cody could process it all, Maxine was already out of the car, a wide smile on her face. She practically ran towards the young woman, who was now beaming back. And then, in a move that shocked Cody to his core, Maxine threw her arms around the woman, hugging her tightly.

Cody had never seen Maxine hug anyone. He knew she was close to her friends, but he'd never seen her display such affection. She was always more reserved, more guarded. What was going on?

"Luna!" Maxine exclaimed, her voice full of joy. "It's so good to see you! I've missed you so much!"

Luna, the young woman, returned the hug with equal enthusiasm. "Maxine! I'm so glad you came. And Cody, it's good to finally meet you."

Luna turned to Cody, a mischievous grin spreading across her face. "Your sister warned me about you, said you were a bit of a stick in the mud. Not a hugger?"

Cody's face flushed red. He couldn't help but feel a pang of embarrassment. "Well," he said, clearing his throat, "I'm more of a man of action, you know?"

Maxine snorted, "He just doesn't show his feelings very easily." She gave Luna a playful nudge. "But I'll vouch for him, he's alright once you get to know him. He's actually very good at hugs... if you make him."

Luna chuckled, "Don't worry, Cody, I'm not going to force you into any unwanted cuddles. But I do like your sister's work. She knows her stuff. She tells me you're here for some weapons and a suit. Let's go inside, I have a few things I think you'll be interested in."