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Chapter 35

Richard's neighbourhood was on the opposite side of the City and completely different to what they left behind. One was lived in and pedestrian while the other was new and cosmopolitan.

Home ownership had become a privilege of the rich. Anyone who couldn't afford to buy was forced to rent. City Council owned homes and made them available to those they saw fit based on income. For the most part what remained of middle class occupied these and lower class occupied apartments. Residents who didn't qualify were left to fend for themselves. This unfortunate group lived in a labyrinth of tunnels beneath the streets, out of the public eye and away from Security. It was a rapidly growing segment of the population.

Richard had always experienced the best in life. His family was wealthy. Because of this a career, house and money came easily - along with an ego. The past few days had shifted this perspective.

Everything was different – his view of the world was fractured. And it deepened as they wound along the streets. The opulence of the houses felt alien. It was unsettling.

When his laneway came into view Richard's stomach lurched. In spite of hope and determination he hadn't expected to see home again.

A cruiser was parked a few feet away. The silhouettes of two Officers were visible inside.

Alex slowed the car and turned into a nearby driveway. It was empty and the house was dark. He killed the engine and turned off the lights.

"Do you know how the suit turns on?" he asked.

"Pad on the right." Richard pointed to a small black square near his shoulder.

"How about image change?"

"Top of the left glove."

"When you tap it a menu bar will appear and float in front of you. Navigation is simple. Just push the buttons with your fingers."

"Got it."

"The suit is invisible by default on power up. Stay that way until you get to the house then change to an image. I've uploaded one of your old body."

Richard smirked. This was a big deal. He never imagined he would look like his real self again.

"Remember - after everything that's happened this is going to be unsettling for whoever sees you."

"True." Richard patted his belly. The black stretch material made it more pronounced than ever. "But it's better they don't see me like this."

"It's not about the package, it's about what's inside."

"So I've been told."

"Simple common sense."

"Sure – but I still wish cloning was legal."

"You're not the only one," said Alex.

Richard sighed and looked around. "I suppose it's go time. Thanks for everything. You didn't have to put yourself at risk like this."

Alex held out a hand. Richard shook it. "Good luck."

A push of a button on the center console opened the door. Richard got out. The night was cool with a slight wind. He walked to the front of the car, looked at Alex and waved. Alex waved back, started the engine and rolled out of the driveway. A moment later he was gone. The Officers in the cruiser were none the wiser.

There was a hood attached to the collar of the suit. Richard pulled it over his head and down his face like a mask, zipped up the front and took a deep breath. It was easy to see through.