I’ve given up driving at night and am avoiding all main roads. My last contact with my poor Wallace was four weeks ago now. If that marks the start of the downfall of America, nature is starting to reclaim what we took from her. It is hard to find a building with running water or electricity. I am happy the winter months haven’t set in.
—The diary of Megan Jean
Everyone was making last-minute preparations for the trip tomorrow and Mia was left alone for dinner. She took in the beauty of the dining room once more before heading up to her room. Mia hoped sleep would come easily that night but was doubtful.
She stood in front of her bathroom mirror and examined her new hairstyle. It was just her real hair this time. Mia was surprised it had grown in this much, since she’d only chopped it off less than three months ago. At the front it came just to her chin but angled backward, with lots of volume at the crown. A style Mia was certain she would be unable to replicate every day but for the time being looked effortless.
Staring in the mirror had once been Mia’s favorite way to pass the time, but the reflection looking at her now was not that of a vain, naïve little girl obsessed with landing a husband. Mia wasn’t sure who she was yet, but after this afternoon she knew she was well on her way to figuring it out.
A knock on her bedroom door broke Mia’s concentration. She went to answer and was thrilled to see Flo on the other side. The woman’s blond hair looked more prominent now, but that was the only noticeable change.
“You did fabulous today,” Flo said. “May I come in?”
“Please,” Mia said.
The prime minister walked in and sat down on Mia’s bed.
“I’m surprised nobody commented on my accent,” Mia said. “It wasn’t flawless.”
“I may have told them my guest suffered from a speech impediment and not to make note of it,” Flo said.
Mia laughed a little at Flo’s ingenuity.
“I have to say I think it is good enough to fool an American,” Flo said. “And everyone traveling with us tomorrow knows of our plans.”
“When I first arrived you said I would be part of those plans,” Mia said.
“And you will,” Flo said. “Right now there isn’t much to discuss. We land in America and we will be escorted across the country to the capital. Then I will attend your husband’s wedding while the group breaks into the Mission and destroys the Registry. Then you will be broadcast on television and share your story with the world, complete with proof that you are who you say you are.”
“It doesn’t sound like I have much of an active role,” Mia said.
“You have complete discretion over whatever words you choose, dear,” Flo said. “And what you say is the most critical part of all of this. Never underestimate the power of words. In the event we are unable to wipe out the Registry your words might still spark a rebellion. You are a leader, Mia.”
Warmth made its way through Mia. “I will be sure to let everyone know your role,” Mia said. “I promise.”
“That is for you to decide,” Flo said. “Don’t think it necessary. I did not sign up for this for the glory. I only want to help people.”
“Isn’t it hard to listen to people like Angelique all the time?”
“You did well with her today,” Flo said.
“It was like there was something growing inside me,” Mia said. “All her anger only fueled my resolution and I stopped caring, only for a moment, what she thought, because I knew the truth. That was enough for me.”
“You’re starting to answer those questions we’ve talked about,” Flo said.
“I suppose so,” Mia said.
“Beauty may fade, intellect dulls, but your spirit, that will live on forever,” Flo said.
Mia reached out and wrapped her arms around Flo. The woman returned her embrace.
“Try not to worry,” Flo said. “I know that you are facing the world right now and at such a young age it must be even more difficult. Never forget who you have at your side.”
Flo released Mia and stood up. Mia did the same, not wanting the woman to leave.
“Wait,” Mia said.
Flo paused.
“Thank you,” Mia said. “For your kindness and your inspiration.”
“Repay me by passing it on to the world,” Flo said.
Flo walked to the door, stopping once she reached the handle.
“I thought you might want some company tonight,” Flo said.
She pulled open the door and standing behind it were Andrew and Carter, both dressed in black attire.
“I will see the three of you in the morning,” Flo said.
The two boys walked into the room and Flo shut the door behind her. Mia couldn’t stop the smile from coming onto her face and ran toward Andrew, throwing her arms around his neck. He wrapped his around her back and lifted her up in the air. When he set her down she pulled away, locking eyes with him as he leaned down and gave her a light kiss.
“I knew I shouldn’t have come,” Carter said.
Mia pushed off of Andrew and went for her friend. She didn’t give Carter a chance to back away and pulled him in for an equally powerful hug.
“I bet mine doesn’t end with a kiss though,” he said.
Mia ignored his comment and squeezed harder before releasing him.
“You know tomorrow might be it,” Carter said. “There’s a chance we’ll land and RAG agents will be waiting to arrest us.”
“Don’t think that way,” Mia said.
“I’m serious,” Carter said. “It could be our last night on earth.”
“Every night could be our last night,” Andrew said.
Mia frowned. She looked at the two men. They had been through so much together. She did not think tomorrow was the end, but if it was she couldn’t think of two people she would rather spend her last night with.