Rewritten: January-May 2025

After they'd gone their separate ways, Maeve found herself trailing Jordan through the dimly lit, eerie mall. The anxiety churned her stomach, manifesting a wave of acid reflux; she still expected to leap from the shops and tear them to pieces. She was beginning to wonder how much more her nails and cuticles would endure.

Jordan skillfully sidestepped every question she threw at him. His air of mystery was starting to wear her nerves. He'd been acting this way since they left Winston's tent, evading the questions as if they were bullets.

For a while, she had to quicken her pace just to keep up with him, his strides were much wider than hers, staying at least three feet ahead of her at all times. "Are you still not going to tell me where we're headed?"

"Nope," he replied, emphasizing the 'p' at the end.

"You'd let me know before you kill me, right?"

"Why do you think I want to harm you?"

"Well, for starters, you're avoiding my questions," Maeve said. "And secondly, you're acting suspicious. Who knows what might've happened during your Firefly training."

Jordan made a laughing sound, but chose not to defend himself. This only heightened her anxiety. But then he glanced back at her, and she knew to trust him. "The only thing that's changed, amor, is how I see the world."

"See the world?" she echoed.

He hummed. "It's a terrifying place. I think I've seen enough horrors to fuel my nightmares for years. I mean, I know you've experienced stuff yourself, but out there..."

"I understand. But unlike you, I haven't been out of the QZ," she said, clearing her throat, a smile creeping up her face. "So, Firefly-Boy, what's it like?"

"What's what like?"

"Being an insect."

"Oh, it's fantastic," Jordan chuckled. "As long as I can irritate you, I'm all for living the bug life."

She rolled her eyes, not noticing that he stopped in the middle of the path. She bumped right into him. "Oof! Hey, why'd you stop?"

"We're here — my apology gift."

"Gift?" Maeve asked, raising her flashlight to reveal a roll-up gate with a damaged sign indication the entrance was closed. Half of the letters were missing, but she could still make out the remnants of the digits. It took her a moment to realize it was a store. She stared at the sign, confusion washing over her.

"What the heck is a 'hot topic'?"

"It's, um," he laughed lightly. "It used to be a popular teen store before the outbreak. They had some really cool stuff in here. You'll love it."

"How can I love it if it's locked up?" Maeve watched as he pulled a small object from his pocket, pinching it between his fingers. It was a key. "And how is a key going to help?"

"To get us inside, silly." He crouched down, grasped the padlock, and unlocked the gate. With a swift motion, he tossed the lock aside, where it clattered against the floor. He grabbed the handles at the bottom of the gate, flashed Maeve a cheeky grin, and then pushed the metal door upward.

An earsplitting, metallic shriek pierced the silence, echoing ominously through the air. The gate screeched so loudly that it felt like it could've been heard from anywhere in the mall. The teenagers stood frozen, paralyzed by fear, completely unprepared for that horrific sound. They exchanged wide-eyed glances, their faces mirroring pure dread.

"Are there any infected here?" Maeve directed her flashlight down the corridor, scanning directions to make sure they were safe.

"Let's not stick around to find out," Jordan replied with a grunt, wincing as he pushed the door the rest of the way. The screeching noise abruptly stopped.

Despite the rising fear within her, Maeve stole a glance back at Jordan. He was standing up, patting his hands on his jeans. He towered over her effortlessly, his height a stark contrast to her own. Finally, he turned to her, offering a reassuring smile that somewhat calmed her nerves. He then extended his hand toward her, and it provided more comfort. She managed a tentative half-smile and placed her hand in his. He intertwined his fingers with hers, giving a gentle yet protective squeeze.

"It's going to be alright, amor," he assured her. "I promise I won't let anything hurt you."

"And what about you?" she asked, concern etched on her face.

"With you by my side, I have nothing to worry about." Her smile returned; he always managed to appear brave, even when she knew he felt just as scared.

"Smooth talker."

"Only for you," he replied with a grin. "Come on, I have a little surprise for you."

"Please tell me it's not something that could knock me out," she joked. It was the only way she knew how to cope with her nerves.

"No it is not. You have such a dark imagination."

"Just making sure I don't die by an infected, or by a crazy person," she said and leaned closer to him. "I'm being careful."

"Careful," he scoffed. "Right. Says the girl who wasn't being very careful when she stabbed herself cleaning her pocket knife."

"I said 'careful, not 'safe'," she shot back, narrowing her eyes at him. "And just a reminder, I still have that knife."

Jordan laughed, completely unfazed by that threatening retort and guided her inside.

Inside, shadows loomed large, but with the help of their trusty flashlights, the duo navigated the darkened space with surprising ease. Maeve took the lead, confident that Jordan had a clear destination in mind. It was both comforting and a source of anxiety; she didn't know what he had in mind.

The main windows were sealed off by a haphazard array of empty shelves and scattered chairs. The store appeared desolate, with only a few shelves left standing, some dragged aside as if the previous occupant had given up fortifying the place. Nothing caught her eyes as she scanned the area, but she remained hopeful that something intriguing might reveal itself.

The walls were adorned with posters that had long since begun to fade, yet they still managed to be the most vibrant in the shop. Whimsical characters wielding fantastical powers danced across the paper, while others showcased vintage bands from a bygone era. There were abstract pieces featuring subtle faces and intricate patterns. Mseve recognizes a familiar aesthetic in her own room, though nothing compared to what she was seeing now.

"Wow, just wow!" She strolled over to the wall with more pictures and phrase, captivated.

"Impressed?" Jordan removed his jacket and casually tossed it over the dusty check-out counter.

Maeve let out a snort of laughter, pointing her flashlight at a square of bold text. " 'Everyone was thinking it, I just said it.' That's ridiculous!"

"But you're laughing?"

She was about to reply when a low whirring sound filled the air. It was more of a hum, but definitely a whirring. The overhead lights flickered to life, though some bulbs stubbornly refused to stay lit and flickered.

"Wow." Maeve switched off her flashlight, taking in the shop now illuminated. It looked entirely different in the bright light compared to the darkness. Even with its sparse offerings, the place radiated with color. Across the store, behind the check-out counter, a wall of floating shelves showcased a few box-heads figurines and glowing rocket-shaped lamps. And don't even get her started on the suddenly spinning and glowing disco ball...

"By your reaction, I'm guessing you love it?" Jordan leaned against the counter, crossing his arms and smiling as he waited patiently for her to come back from her excitement.

"It's incredible," she replied, her eyes sparkling.

"I'm happy to hear that," he said, rummaging through the items on the counter. "I have a surprise for you."

"You mean, this wasn't it?"

"I mean, yes, a part of it," Jordan chuckled. "I figured you'd like both at the same time."

"What, a setting to hide my body?"

He clicked his tongue. "You're awfully masochistic today. Why is it that when I'm trying to give you a surprise, you think I'm going to become this sadistic killer?"

"I'm sorry," she said sincerely. "I'm just teasing; I mean anything by it."

She stood there innocently as he gave her a soft glare that shifted into something else. He sighed, his shoulders relaxing and he brought out a small, elongated box in his hand. It was just the right size to fit in her back pocket, at least half of it. He held it tightly, his lips pressed into a thin line.

"Maeve, I..." Their gazes met. His otherworldly forest green eye, flecked with hints of golden caramel and earthy brown, locked onto her hazel ones. She was captivated by the uniqueness of his eyes; they held a beauty that was simply enchanting. She could lose herself in them for hours, perhaps even forever, if he let her.

The curiosity danced in her mind as she tucked a loose strand of hair behind her ear. His intense gaze made her feel a bit self-conscious, yet she relished the way he admired her. A heat radiated through her, akin to walking through flames, and she found herself awkwardly shifting in her shoes.

"I've regretted leaving you," he said, his voice barely above a whisper. It was almost a miracle she heard him. "I...I wouldn't have if I had the choice."

"Are you saying you were made to leave?" An icy feeling swept through her.

He averted his eyes, focusing on the box he held. "I didn't choose to be a Firefly; it was my mom's decision."

"Your mom?"

"Yeah, she mentioned a few times that when I was old enough, I'd join. I guess that time has come," he said, a bitter smile creeping onto his lips. "But...there's a catch."

"A catch?" Maeve parroted, her voice laced with caution.

"I...I'm being assigned to a different city," he confessed, his tone heavy. "My mom's leaving too. She doesn't want me anywhere she isn't."

"So, your mom decides where you go and when?" Maeve's heart raced. "What, is she the leader of the Fireflies or something?"

She noticed his jaw tighten, his entire body going rigid before he awkwardly relaxed. He rubbed the back of his neck, a sheepish grin forming as he avoided her gaze. A cold sensation coursed through her veins.

"No," she said, shaking her head in disbelief. "No way in hell. Your mom is MARLENE?"

"Surprise?"

"Surprise my ass!" Maeve exclaimed. It stung that he kept this from her. "Why didn't you tell me you're Marlene's son?"

"You never asked."

A strangled laugh escaped her lips. She was taken aback by his response, but it also irked her. With her hands firmly on her hips, she declared, "I can't believe this right now!"

"You're right. You can believe it later," Jordan replied, extending the box toward her. "Here."

"What is it?" Maeve grunted, casting a skeptical glance at the box.

"Just open it," he insisted.

"I swear, if this turns out to be one of those Jack-in-the-box things, I'm going to kick your ass," she warned.

"Mae, stop flirting."

"Only you would find a threat arousing," she retorted, settling into a cross-legged position as she began to open the box. Suddenly, she froze, her eyes widening. "What is this?"

Inside was a bracelet with leather strings, loosely woven together, adorned with an odd number of gleaming obsidian beads. For the first time in a while, her mind went blank, and she was at a loss for words. The beauty of the gift left her speechless. She gently lifted the bracelet from its place and set the box aside.

"I came across it in this upscale shop," Jordan said, crouching down to meet her gaze. "I know how much you love black and I just thought—"

"It's beautiful, Jordan," she beamed at him. "Put it on me?"

"It'd be my honor," he replied, taking the bracelet from her hand. He carefully wrapped the strings around her left wrist and fastened his thoughtful gift.

Once the bracelet was fastened around her wrist, she gazed at her new treasure with affection. It was perfect, she beamed. Though she wasn't typically one for jewelry, this would hold a special place in her heart forever.

"Thank you, Jordan."

He replied with something in Spanish, though she could tell it must've been something nice. He grinned and helped her stand. A sudden chill made her shiver, and he frowned, pulling her into his embrace. "Are you cold?"

"I'm okay."

"Let me warm you up," Jordan said, pulling her closer against him, wrapping his arms around her tightly.

"Hey! Wait–" Maeve protested, but her words were cut short when his lips found hers. She hesitated for a moment, but soon melted into the kiss. It felt cozy until his hands began to wander, playfully pinching her hips and tickling her sides.

"Jordan—" a squeak escaped her as his fingers danced along her sides. She pulled back from the kiss, but he still held her close. "What did I say about the tickling?"

"Are you still feeling cold?" he asked, resting his chin on the top of her head.

"I told you I'm fine, didn't I?"

"Stubborn as ever," he grunted, stepping back to grab his jacket. "You were never a fan of the cold."

"You really know me," Maeve grumbled as he insisted she pu ton the jacket, which was quite baggy on her and hung past her hips. The sleeves were a little too long and she struggled a bit to keep them rolled up. Eventually, she surrendered and allowed the chilly fabric to warm against her skin.

"I really know you," he teased.

"Thanks," she said after a moment, finally zipping up the jacket. She grumbled a bit, but she couldn't deny that she felt warmer now.

Jordan watched her try to readjust the sleeves.

She noticed. "What are you thinking about?"

"That we could do it," he said, leaving her with more questions than answers, stirring her imagination and frustration.

"Do what?"

"Leave," he admitted, exhaling sharply. "Leave this quarantine zone. Leave behind the soldiers and the Fireflies."

Throughout the night, the hours they spent together, he'd kept his feelings tightly bottled. He was expressive but he'd evaded her questions. She stood there, frozen, her hands letting the sleeves fall back into place. The weight of his words hung in the air, as if he'd just shared a devastating secret.

"When I was with my mom, we found a picture in one of the buildings we hid in — of a farm. It had a family on that farm, in the middle of nowhere. There were pastures, meadows, and mountains that stretched into the horizon. I'd never seen anything like it before. I think...maybe if I'd been born in the old world, I would've lived in a farmhouse like that one."

"Oh really?" She raised her eyebrows. "I don't see you milking cows."

"I can learn," he rebutted. "Besides, I think I'd prefer working with sheep."

"You'd actually milk sheep?"

He shrugged nonchalantly. "Maybe."

"And would you have chickens and pigs?" she asked, a smile growing on her face.

"Oh, definitely," he grinned. "I haven't had real bacon in ages."

She laughed, but then her expression turned serious. "Butwe'd still be dealing with infected."

"We can protect the land," he said with a thoughtful tone. And then he grabbed her shoulders, sliding his hands down her arms to hold her hands. "We can escape this place. Just the two of us. We can be free."

Maeve looked at him, taken aback. But she thought about it. "But what about Ellie? I can't just leave her behind."

"She can come along. And Riley, if she wants," he answered, smiling as he kissed her forehead. "We can be one big, happy, mismatched family."

She began to envision it: her, Jordan, Riley, and Ellie, tending to sheep and chickens, maybe even a few pigs. They'd have a spacious farmhouse, one that was still standing and easy to maintain. There'd be a barn with faded red paint. They'd have horses too; and a small field to grow crops like corn and potatoes. The more she envisioned, the greater the warmth in her chest became. That sounded..."Wonderful." She said it aloud. It was wonderful. Very wonderful. A beautiful kind of wonderful.

Jordan smiled, continuing with great enthusiasm. "I heard about this place out west. It's a growing community with its own setup and everything. The word is that they're pretty secure, safe from infected and looters."

"As amazing as this sounds, Jordan," Maeve said, her brows furrowing. "What about your mom?"

"She'll be fine," he replied with a sigh. "At least, I hope so. This is all so...I just wish she'd understand. It'd make things easier for me."

"Make what easier?" She blinked in confusion.

Defeated, Jordan let out another sigh and ran his fingers over his buzz cut. "It's hard to explain...but to sum it up, she enrolled me in the school to gather intel on military plans, routes, and other stuff — typical revolutionary stuff," he glanced away, ashamed. "I guess when I didn't deliver what she wanted, she made me a Firefly."

"Wait — WHAT?" Maeve, again, was taken aback.

"Not only that," he continued. "But apparently, she knew your mom before the outbreak and promised to look after you and Ellie. I guess she can't 'protect' you if I'm around."

"Back up!" The room could've spun. "She turned you into a spy?"

"Kind of...sort of."

"I...I don't get any of this! You're a spy? What the hell?! And now she's sending you away because of me? What the actual hell?!" She felt a wave of despair wash over her. Honestly, she needed to sit down before her mind imploded.

"It's alright, amor, she doesn't know about us."

"Sounds like she does," she retorted, clearly skeptical.

"It doesn't matter. I'm staying with you, Mae."

"Well, maybe it matters to me!" she shot back.

"Shh," Jordan pulled her close, wrapping his arms around her and gently smoothing her braid. "Let me handle my madre. You just focus on being that witty little troublemaker I know you are."

"Are you teasing me?" She melted in his warmth.

He chuckled softly but didn't respond. He relaxed against her, holding her tight as she might vanish if her let go.

"Never." He rested his chin on her head.

"Where have I heard that before?"