Jioni’s body became stiff. If only Tracey knew that she was damaged and couldn’t take the test. That she had failed her unknowingly, and the guilt built up inside her. Like a hurricane, her mind spun with a sense of fraud. She sat in silence, using her fake smile as a shield, but Tracey only mirrored her expression.
Tracey shut the laptop. And smiled weakly at Jioni.
“I’m sorry, busy busy, busy,” Tracey said. “I have to constantly contact Geogen, even at these ungodly hours. I’m glad you’re here to keep me company.”
“What were you messaging them about?”
“The usual. Clothes, food, grown-up stuff you would never understand, not now, at least,” Tracey said. “It’s such a struggle dealing with Geogen. But I do it for you and everyone here.”
Jioni folded her hands. “If it’s a struggle…” she didn’t break eye contact. “Maybe there’s another easier way.”
“Jiji, that’s not how life works. You have to get uncomfortable to be comfortable in this world. And when you finally become an Agent, I’ll know that my struggle was worth it.” Tracey smiled.
