1978: The Beginning of Something New
It wasn't until her third day at the hospital that Jessica was assigned to check on one of the more "unique" patients. She scanned the clipboard as she walked, her brow furrowing. No name, just an alias: James.
When she entered the room, the scent of antiseptic hit her first. The space was dimly lit, the air heavy with tension. Strapped to a reinforced chair in the center of the room sat a man. His shoulders were broad, his arms corded with muscle, and his piercing eyes seemed to cut through the gloom. Despite the restraints holding him in place, he radiated an aura of raw power.
"You're new," he said, his voice rough but steady.
Jessica startled slightly, not expecting him to speak. "Uh, yes. Jessica Martin." She cleared her throat, regaining her composure. "I'm here to check your vitals."
"Great," he drawled, leaning back as much as the restraints allowed. "Another clipboard jockey."
Despite herself, Jessica stifled a laugh. "I assure you, I'm more than a clipboard jockey."
"Sure you are," he replied, his lips twitching into a faint smirk. "And I'm just here for the free food."
Jessica glanced at the tray near his chair—untouched, save for the bruised apple rolling on its side. "Looks like you're not making the most of it," she said, surprising herself with her boldness.
That earned her a real smile, albeit a small one. "Maybe you're not so bad after all."
She flushed slightly but turned her attention back to her work. His charm was undeniable, but it was his calm in the face of his circumstances that intrigued her most.
:-:-:-:-:
Later that evening, Jessica returned to the small apartment she shared with Anthony. He was lounging on the couch, a can of soda in hand, flipping through channels.
"How was the fancy new job?" he asked, not looking up.
Jessica hesitated, her fingers tightening around her purse strap. "It's… interesting. A little intense."
Anthony snorted. "It's a hospital, Jess. What'd you expect? Rainbows and puppies?"
"It's not like a regular hospital," she said, sitting down across from him. "There's something… off about it. The patients aren't ordinary."
"Well, as long as they're paying you enough, who cares?" Anthony said with a shrug, taking a swig of his drink.
Jessica frowned. "It's not just about the money, Anthony. This could be a step toward something bigger for us. I want to—"
"Yeah, yeah," he interrupted, waving her off. "You're always thinking about the future. Maybe try living in the now for once."
Her chest tightened, frustration bubbling under the surface. It wasn't the first time he'd dismissed her ambitions, but tonight it stung more than usual. She thought of James's sharp wit and steady gaze. He'd barely known her, yet he'd taken her more seriously in five minutes than Anthony had in weeks.
Eight Months Later
The days bled into weeks, and Jessica found herself returning to Logan's room more often than required. Her initial nerves around him had faded, replaced by a strange sense of ease. He had a way of cutting through her guarded professionalism with his blunt observations and unexpected humor.
"Why do you keep coming back here?" he asked one day, his eyes narrowing slightly as she checked his blood pressure.
"Maybe I like the company," she replied lightly, not meeting his gaze.
"Or maybe you're just tired of pretending," he said, his tone softer than usual.
Jessica paused, her hands stilling. She looked up at him, her expression guarded. "Pretending what?"
"That this place doesn't eat at you," he said simply. "That you're okay with what they're doing here."
She swallowed hard, her chest tightening. He wasn't wrong, but admitting it felt like a betrayal—of her job, her relationship, and the carefully constructed life she was trying to maintain.
"You don't know anything about me," she said quietly.
"Maybe not," he admitted. "But I know what it looks like when someone's stuck."
His words lingered with her long after she left his room that day.
:-:-:-:-:
Jessica returned home late one night, her mind buzzing. Anthony was waiting, his arms crossed.
"Where've you been?" he asked sharply.
"Work ran late," she said, kicking off her shoes.
"Work always runs late," he snapped. "What's going on, Jess? You're always distracted, always on edge. Is there someone else?"
Her stomach dropped. "What? No!"
"Then what is it?" he demanded. "Because I'm getting real tired of feeling like I'm playing second fiddle to your big-shot job."
Jessica stared at him, her frustration and guilt boiling over. "Maybe it's because I'm trying to build a future for us, and all you do is sit here waiting for your parents to bail you out!"
The words hung in the air, heavy and final. Anthony's face twisted in anger, but he didn't argue. Instead, he grabbed his jacket and stormed out, slamming the door behind him.
Jessica sank onto the couch, her head in her hands. She thought of Logan's words: You're stuck.
For the first time, she wondered if he was right.
:-:-:-:-:
Jessica found herself slipping into a routine—one that revolved not just around her work at the hospital but around Logan. He became a constant presence in her mind, a quiet force that challenged her in ways she hadn't expected.
Each day, she told herself it was purely professional. She was checking on him, ensuring his health and compliance with the hospital's demands. But the truth was harder to ignore with every passing week. It wasn't just his charm or his dry humor—it was the way he seemed to see her, to understand her, in a way no one else had.
"Let me guess," Logan said one day as she entered his room. "Rough night at home?"
Jessica froze, blinking in surprise. "What makes you say that?"
"You've got that look," he replied, gesturing vaguely at her. "Like someone spent all night yelling at you, and you're still replaying the argument in your head."
She crossed her arms, trying to regain her composure. "You don't know anything about my personal life."
"True," he admitted, his lips quirking into a half-smile. "But you've got that 'put-together on the outside, falling apart on the inside' vibe. Seen it before."
Jessica stared at him, her defenses cracking under his steady gaze. She sighed, pulling a chair closer to his bed. "Anthony and I… it's complicated."
Logan raised an eyebrow. "Complicated how?"
Jessica hesitated, unsure why she was opening up to a man she barely knew. But something about Logan made her feel safe, like she could speak without judgment.
"He's my high school sweetheart," she began. "We've been together for three years, but… I don't know. Lately, it feels like we're moving in two different directions. I want more, you know? A real future. But he's content just… coasting."
Logan leaned back, his expression thoughtful. "And you're not okay with that."
"No," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper.
Logan studied her for a moment before speaking. "Sounds like you've got a choice to make, Jess. Either you keep waiting for him to catch up, or you move on."
His words were blunt, almost too blunt, but they resonated with her in a way she hadn't expected.
:-:-:-:-:
The weeks turned into months, and Jessica found herself seeking out Logan's company more often. Their conversations grew deeper, more personal, and she began to notice the little things about him—the way his eyes softened when he laughed, the quiet strength in his voice when he talked about his past.
"Why are you here?" she asked him one day, her curiosity finally getting the better of her.
Logan's jaw tightened, his gaze shifting to the floor. "Let's just say the people in charge didn't like what I could do."
Jessica frowned. "What do you mean?"
Logan hesitated, then raised his hand, his claws extending with a soft snikt. Jessica gasped, her eyes widening.
"They want to figure out how it works," he said bitterly. "How I heal, how these… things came to be. They think they can use it."
Jessica's heart clenched. She'd known the hospital was experimenting on patients, but seeing it firsthand—seeing Logan's pain—made it all too real.
"That's barbaric," she whispered.
Logan shrugged, his expression resigned. "That's the world, sweetheart. You don't like it, don't stick around."
Jessica bit her lip, her mind racing. She couldn't just walk away—not now, not when she was starting to realize just how deeply she cared for him.
:-:-:-:-:
Jessica hadn't expected to return to the hospital that evening, but sitting alone in the apartment she shared with Anthony had been unbearable. The echo of their argument replayed in her head like a broken record, each word cutting deeper than the last. She wasn't sure if she was running from the confrontation or toward something else entirely.
When she stepped into James's room, he was sitting on the edge of the bed, his posture relaxed but alert. He glanced up at her, his sharp blue eyes narrowing slightly as he took in her expression.
"Late night visit, Jess?" he asked, his tone casual but tinged with concern.
Jessica shut the door behind her, leaning against it as she let out a shaky breath. "I didn't know where else to go."
James frowned, his bluntness giving way to something gentler. "Trouble with the boyfriend?"
She nodded, biting her lip. "We had a fight. A big one. I don't even know if we're still… together."
James motioned for her to sit beside him on the bed. "You wanna talk about it?"
Jessica hesitated before crossing the room. She sat down, leaving a small gap between them. "It's like we're speaking different languages," she admitted. "He doesn't understand why I want more—why I can't just settle for what we have."
"Because you've got ambition," James said simply. "You see a future, and he doesn't."
Jessica turned to him, startled by his insight. "How do you know that?"
James shrugged, a wry smile tugging at his lips. "Takes one to know one. I've met plenty of people who think small, who don't wanna risk anything. But you—you're different. You've got that fire. It scares him, 'cause he knows he can't keep up."
Jessica stared at him, her chest tightening. "I don't know if I can keep doing this."
"Then don't," James said bluntly. "Life's too short to waste it on people who hold you back."
His words hung in the air, heavy with truth. Jessica looked down at her hands, her mind racing. For months, she'd been trying to convince herself that things with Anthony would get better, that she just needed to be patient. But now, hearing James say what she'd been too afraid to admit… it felt like a weight lifting off her shoulders.
"Thanks, James," she said quietly. "For being honest."
He smirked, leaning back on his hands. "Not much point in sugarcoating it, is there?"
Jessica laughed softly, the sound easing some of the tension in the room. "You really don't hold back, do you?"
"Not my style," he replied. "But for what it's worth, you're stronger than you think, Jess. You'll figure this out."
She looked at him, her heart swelling with gratitude. "How do you always know the right thing to say?"
James's expression softened, a hint of vulnerability flickering in his eyes. "Maybe 'cause I've been where you are. Lost, stuck… not sure what's next. You remind me of someone I used to know. She had that same fire."
Jessica's curiosity piqued, but she didn't press. Instead, she reached out, placing a hand on his arm. "Thank you, James. For everything."
He covered her hand with his own, his touch warm and grounding. "Anytime, Jess."
:-:-:-:-:
Over the next few weeks, Jessica found herself drawn to James more and more. Their conversations became a lifeline, a source of clarity and comfort in the chaos of her life. She wasn't sure when it had started, but somewhere along the line, her feelings for him had shifted. What had once been professional respect and friendly banter had blossomed into something deeper—something she wasn't ready to name.
One evening, as she finished her rounds, Jessica stopped by James's room. He was sitting on the bed, a dog tag chain in his hands, methodically running his fingers along it as if the rhythm was grounding him. He looked up as she entered, a lopsided grin spreading across his face.
"Back again? People are gonna start talkin'," he teased.
Jessica rolled her eyes, but her smile gave her away. "Let them talk. I'm here for the company."
James chuckled, setting the chain aside. "Well, aren't I lucky?"
She sat down in her usual spot, her gaze drifting to the claw he'd been sharpening. "How do you do it?" she asked softly. "How do you stay so… steady?"
James tilted his head, considering her question. "I don't, not really. I just fake it till I make it. But having someone to talk to—it helps."
Jessica's heart skipped a beat at his words. She met his eyes, the unspoken connection between them crackling like static electricity.
"James…" she began, but the words caught in her throat.
He reached out, his hand brushing against hers. "You don't have to say it," he said quietly. "I get it."
Jessica felt a flush creep up her neck, but she didn't pull away. Instead, she let her fingers intertwine with his, the simple gesture speaking volumes.
For the first time in months, she felt like she wasn't alone.
:-:-:-:-:
Jessica sat in the small, dimly lit kitchen of her apartment, her hands wrapped around a cup of tea that had long since gone cold. The clock on the wall ticked loudly, filling the silence. She had replayed the conversation she needed to have with Anthony over and over in her mind, but now that the moment had arrived, the words felt heavy and awkward on her tongue.
Anthony walked through the front door, his shirt soaked with sweat and his face set in a familiar scowl. He tossed his gym bag onto the couch, barely glancing in her direction.
"Long day," he muttered, heading to the fridge. "What's for dinner?"
Jessica straightened her back, steeling herself. "We need to talk."
Anthony paused, his hand halfway to a beer. He glanced over his shoulder, his brow furrowing. "What about?"
She gestured to the seat across from her. "Sit down, Anthony. Please."
He sighed but complied, pulling out a chair and sinking into it with an air of reluctance. "Alright. What's this about?"
Jessica clasped her hands tightly, her knuckles white. "This… us. It's not working."
Anthony's expression shifted from confusion to annoyance. "Not this again, Jess. We've been through this. You're just stressed. The hospital's got you all worked up—"
"It's not the hospital," she interrupted, her voice firmer than she expected. "It's you. It's me. It's everything."
Anthony frowned, leaning forward. "What the hell does that mean?"
Jessica took a deep breath. "It means I've been pretending that things are fine when they're not. We've been stuck in the same place for years, Anthony, and I can't do it anymore. I need more."
"More?" His tone was defensive, almost incredulous. "I've given you everything, Jess. You've got a roof over your head, food on the table—"
"That's not what I mean," she said, cutting him off again. "I need a partner. Someone who shares my goals, who wants to build a future with me. And you don't."
Anthony's face reddened, his frustration bubbling to the surface. "Oh, so I'm the bad guy now? I've supported you through everything, Jessica. Through nursing school, through—"
"Supported me?" she snapped, her voice rising. "You've been coasting, Anthony. Living off your parents' money, making excuses, and expecting me to settle for a life I don't want."
Anthony's jaw tightened, his hands clenching into fists on the table. "So what? You're just gonna throw it all away? Three years, just like that?"
Tears pricked at Jessica's eyes, but she blinked them away. "It's not just like that. I've been trying, Anthony. I've been holding on, hoping things would change, but they haven't. And I can't keep pretending."
Anthony pushed his chair back abruptly, the legs scraping against the floor. He stood, pacing the small kitchen. "Is there someone else?" he demanded, his voice sharp.
Jessica's stomach twisted. "This isn't about anyone else," she said carefully, avoiding his gaze. "This is about us."
"Bullshit," he spat, his eyes narrowing. "You've been distant for a long time. I knew… I just knew something was going on."
Jessica stood as well, her own frustration bubbling over. "Yes, I've been distant, because I've been trying to figure out how to end this without hurting you. But the truth is, Anthony, this has been over for a long time. You just didn't want to see it."
His face fell, the anger giving way to something more vulnerable. "You don't mean that," he said quietly, almost pleading. "We can fix this. Whatever's wrong, we can fix it."
Jessica shook her head, her heart breaking at the pain in his voice. "I've made up my mind, Anthony. I'm leaving."
The words hung in the air, heavy and final. Anthony stared at her, his mouth opening and closing as if searching for a response, but none came. Finally, he turned away, running a hand through his hair.
"Fine," he muttered. "Do whatever you want. I don't care."
Jessica's chest ached, but she didn't let herself falter. She walked past him to the bedroom, grabbing the small suitcase she had packed earlier. As she moved toward the door, she paused, glancing back at him one last time.
"I'm sorry, Anthony. I really am. But this is the right thing for both of us."
Without waiting for a response, she stepped out into the night, the cool air hitting her like a shock. For the first time in years, she felt untethered—free. Her heart was heavy, but there was also a sense of relief, a weight lifting from her shoulders.
She didn't know exactly where she was going, but one thing was clear: her path no longer included Anthony Harris.
:-A Few Weeks Later -:
:-:-:-:-:
Jessica entered Logan's room after finishing her rounds, a clipboard clutched to her chest. She glanced around to make sure no one was watching before slipping inside. Logan sat on the edge of his cot, his shoulders hunched, one hand idly scratching at the leather restraints still looped around his wrists.
"You're back," he said without looking up, his voice low and rough. "Thought maybe you'd forgotten about me."
Jessica closed the door softly behind her, letting out a breath she hadn't realized she was holding. "As if I could forget someone as charming as you," she replied with a teasing smile, though her heart ached at the sight of him.
"Charming, huh?" Logan finally looked up, his piercing blue eyes locking onto hers. "That what they call it when I drive all the docs outta here?"
Jessica's lips twitched. "You mean when you scare them half to death? No, I'd call that… effective."
Logan chuckled, the sound deep and warm, and the corners of his mouth quirked into a rare smile. "You're not scared, though. Gotta admit, I've been tryin'."
Jessica crossed the room and set her clipboard on the small table beside his cot. "Oh, I've noticed. But I'm tougher than I look."
"Guess so," Logan murmured, his gaze softening.
For a moment, the room fell quiet, save for the faint hum of the hospital's machines. Jessica busied herself checking his vitals, her hands steady but her heart racing. She could feel his eyes on her, sharp and unyielding, yet somehow comforting.
As she adjusted the strap on one of his monitoring devices, her fingers brushed against his wrist. The contact was fleeting, but it sent a jolt through her that she hadn't expected.
"You're different, y'know," Logan said suddenly, his voice softer now.
Jessica looked up, startled. "Different how?"
"Most of the folks here, they don't see me. Not really," Logan explained, his gaze never leaving hers. "They see a weapon, a test subject. But you… you treat me like a person."
Jessica's throat tightened. She tried to brush off the compliment with a light laugh. "Well, you are a person, James. No matter what they think."
Logan tilted his head, studying her. "Yeah, but it takes guts to see that. They don't scare you into lookin' the other way?"
"They try," Jessica admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. "But… I've seen enough here to know what's right and what's wrong. And what they're doing to you—it's not right."
Logan's expression shifted, the usual hardness in his eyes softening. "Thanks, Jess. For seein' me."
Jessica felt her cheeks flush. "Someone has to."
Before she could step back, Logan reached out, his hand brushing hers. The touch was gentle but deliberate, his rough fingers lingering against her skin.
"Careful," he said with a faint smirk. "People might start thinkin' you actually like me."
Jessica's laugh came out shaky. "And what if I do?"
Logan's smirk widened, but his tone was serious when he replied. "Then I'd say you've got a dangerous streak."
The weight of his words hung between them, the unspoken truth of their situation casting a shadow over the moment. But neither of them pulled away.
"I should go," Jessica said reluctantly, her voice tinged with regret.
Logan's hand slipped from hers, though his gaze never wavered. "Yeah, you probably should."
Jessica hesitated at the door, glancing back at him one last time. His eyes followed her, a mixture of longing and determination in his expression.
"Goodnight, James," she said softly.
"Goodnight, Jess," he replied, his voice almost tender.
As she stepped out into the cold, sterile hallway, Jessica felt her heart racing. She knew she was walking a dangerous line, but for the first time in a long while, she didn't feel so alone.
:-:-:-:
Jessica stood outside the small storage room, the contraband tucked under her arm—a bar of chocolate and a worn paperback novel. Her heart thudded in her chest as she glanced down the hallway, checking for cameras or patrolling guards. The coast was clear. She slipped inside and gently closed the door behind her.
"Breaking the rules now, Jess?" Logan's voice came from the corner of the dimly lit room. He leaned against a metal shelving unit, his arms crossed over his chest, his trademark smirk already in place.
Jessica rolled her eyes, though the smile tugging at her lips gave her away. "I figured you could use a little distraction," she said, holding up the items.
Logan raised an eyebrow as she handed him the chocolate. He studied it like it was a foreign object before peeling back the wrapper and breaking off a piece. "Fancy. What's the occasion?"
"No occasion," Jessica said, leaning against the opposite wall. "I just thought you deserved something good for a change."
"Chocolate and Tolstoy," Logan murmured, glancing at the book. "You got a thing for contradictions, huh?"
Jessica smirked. "Something like that. Thought it might keep you occupied. I hear Tolstoy's good for keeping the mind sharp."
Logan snorted, popping the chocolate into his mouth. "Guess I'll be a regular scholar by the time they're done with me."
Jessica's smile faltered, the weight of his words settling heavily in the room. She hated how casually he spoke about his captivity, as if he'd already resigned himself to it.
"James," she began softly, but he cut her off.
"Don't start, Jess," Logan said, his voice rough but not unkind. "It is what it is. No use sugarcoatin' it."
Jessica crossed the small space between them, the book and the rest of the chocolate forgotten on the shelf. "It doesn't have to be," she said firmly.
Logan tilted his head, his smirk fading as he met her gaze. "You're a stubborn one, you know that?"
Jessica smiled faintly. "So I've been told."
For a moment, they stood in silence, the tension between them crackling like electricity. Jessica's eyes flicked to his mouth, and she quickly looked away, her cheeks warming.
"Something on your mind, Jess?" Logan asked, his tone lighter now, teasing.
She rolled her eyes but didn't move away. "You're impossible."
"And yet, here you are," Logan said, his voice dropping to a low rumble.
Before she could second-guess herself, Jessica leaned in and kissed him. It was quick, almost chaste, but enough to catch Logan by surprise.
When she pulled back, she saw the faintest flicker of shock in his eyes, quickly replaced by that familiar smirk. "Well, that's one way to shut me up."
Jessica laughed softly, shaking her head. "Don't let it go to your head."
Logan reached for her hand, his grip warm and steady. "Too late."
This time, it was Logan who leaned in, capturing her lips in a deeper, more deliberate kiss. Jessica melted into him, her hands resting lightly on his chest as the world outside the storage room faded away.
The kiss ended far too soon, leaving them both breathless. Logan rested his forehead against hers, his voice softer now. "You're playin' a dangerous game, Jess."
"So are you," she replied, her voice barely above a whisper.
Logan chuckled, pulling back just enough to meet her eyes. "Guess we make a good team then."
Jessica smiled, but the weight of reality crept back in. "I should go before someone notices I'm gone."
Logan let her go reluctantly, his hand brushing hers one last time. "Be careful, Jess. These people… they don't play fair."
"I know," she said, her voice tinged with both resolve and fear.
As she slipped out of the storage room, Jessica felt the ghost of his kiss lingering on her lips. It was reckless, dangerous—but for the first time in a long time, it felt like she was doing something that mattered.
:-:-:-:-:
Jessica walked briskly down the sterile, gray hallway, her footsteps muffled by the faint hum of machinery. She had finished her shift hours ago, but a misplaced chart had sent her searching deeper into the facility than she'd ever gone.
As she approached the lab's frosted-glass door, muffled voices caught her attention. She hesitated, clutching the clipboard to her chest, and stepped closer, her curiosity outweighing her better judgment.
Two scientists stood just inside the room, speaking in hushed tones. The glow from their monitors cast long shadows across the walls. Jessica pressed herself against the doorframe, straining to hear.
"…completely unique," one of them said, his voice sharp with excitement. "We've never had a subject like this. His DNA is practically rewriting itself."
The other scientist, a woman with a clipped tone, replied, "Of course it is. You're talking about a man who can heal from a bullet to the brain. His genetic structure isn't just human—it's evolutionary perfection."
Jessica's breath caught in her throat. They were talking about Logan.
"What about the hybrids?" the first scientist asked. "Any progress?"
The woman sighed. "None. Every attempt to synthesize his DNA has failed. His body neutralizes every chemical compound we introduce, flushing it out within hours. The embryos didn't even make it through their first week. It's like his biology rejects interference."
"Then we focus on him directly," the man said. "We escalate the protocols. If we can isolate the mutation—"
"Escalate?" the woman interrupted sharply. "Do you have any idea what that would entail? We're already pushing the boundaries of ethics as it is."
Jessica's pulse quickened. They were already experimenting on Logan—what more could they possibly do to him?
The man chuckled darkly. "Ethics don't pay the bills. The brass wants results, and if that means carving him up piece by piece, then so be it."
Jessica pressed a hand to her mouth to stifle a gasp. Her stomach churned as the weight of their words sank in. This wasn't research—it was mutilation. They weren't trying to help Logan; they were dissecting him like a lab rat.
"We'll need to prep him for more invasive procedures," the man continued. "Full spinal and brain tissue extractions. Schedule it for the end of the week."
Jessica couldn't listen anymore. She backed away from the door, her hands trembling as she clutched the clipboard to her chest. Her mind raced. They were going to kill him.
:-:-:-:
Jessica burst into Logan's room, her usual composure replaced with barely controlled panic. Logan looked up from where he was sitting on the cot, his sharp eyes immediately narrowing.
"Jess?" he said, rising to his feet. "What's wrong?"
She closed the door behind her, leaning against it as she struggled to catch her breath. "They're going to escalate the experiments," she blurted out. "They're talking about… invasive procedures. Spinal extractions. Brain tissue."
Logan's jaw tightened, his expression darkening. "Figures," he muttered. "I've been wonderin' when they'd stop pokin' around and start rippin' me apart."
Jessica crossed the room, grabbing his arm. "You can't just accept this!"
"What do you want me to do, Jess?" Logan snapped, though his anger wasn't directed at her. "You think I haven't thought about gettin' out of here? You think I don't want to?"
Jessica recoiled slightly at his tone, but her grip on his arm didn't waver. "Then let me help you," she said fiercely.
Logan shook his head. "It's too dangerous. They'll come after you just for tryin'."
"I don't care!" Jessica's voice cracked, and she blinked back tears. "They're going to kill you, James. If you don't fight back, they'll take everything."
Logan's gaze softened at the sight of her distress. He reached out, brushing a tear from her cheek with a rough thumb. "You don't have to do this, Jess. You've already done enough just by seein' me as more than a damn lab rat."
"It's not enough," she whispered. "I can't just stand by and let this happen. We need to get you out of here."
Logan stared at her for a long moment, his jaw clenching as he weighed their options. Finally, he nodded. "Alright, Jess. We'll figure somethin' out."
:-:-:-:
The scientists moved with purpose, preparing for the next phase of their experiments. Medical instruments glinted under the harsh fluorescent lights, and a reinforced surgical chair sat in the center of the room, its restraints ready for use.
"We're set for Thursday morning," the female scientist said, tapping on her tablet. "Full neural scans, tissue samples, and skeletal extraction."
"And the subject?" the male scientist asked.
"Already sedated. He won't know what hit him."
The camera feed flickered, and a red light blinked on the corner of the monitor. Neither scientist noticed.
:-:-:-:
They huddled together in the dim light, their voices low as they hashed out a plan:
• Jessica's Role: Jessica would use her security clearance to disable some of the cameras in Logan's corridor and unlock the emergency exits. She'd also create a diversion in the infirmary to draw the guards' attention away.
• Logan's Role: Logan, despite his injuries and the drugs in his system, would rely on his enhanced strength and senses to fight his way through the remaining guards.
• The Exit: A back service door led to the hospital's loading dock. From there, Logan could slip into the surrounding woods.
Jessica hesitated, her hand hovering over his. "What about after you're out? Where will you go?"
Logan shrugged, his usual smirk returning. "Somewhere quiet. Somewhere they won't find me."
Jessica's chest tightened. "I wish I could go with you."
Logan reached out, brushing a strand of hair from her face. "You've already done more than I deserve, Jess. I'm not draggin' you into this any deeper."
Her throat tightened, but she nodded, knowing he was right. "Be careful, okay?"
Logan's smirk softened into a rare, genuine smile. "I'll do my best. And Jess…" He leaned in, pressing a gentle kiss to her forehead. "Thanks. For everything."
:-:-:-:
Jessica moved through the infirmary with purpose, her heart pounding. She slipped a small vial of saline into the medication pump of a high-profile patient, triggering an alarm that sent nurses and guards scrambling.
In the chaos, she slipped away, ducking into a nearby utility room where she accessed the hospital's security system. Her fingers flew across the keyboard as she disabled the cameras in Logan's corridor and unlocked the service door.
"Come on, James," she whispered, her pulse racing. "You've got this."
:-:-:-:
The alarms blared as Logan stepped into the hallway, his enhanced senses on high alert. He moved quickly but deliberately, taking out the first two guards with precise, brutal strikes.
As more guards appeared, Logan's claws extended with a sharp snikt. He didn't want to use them, but the odds weren't in his favor. He fought with a savage efficiency, his body moving on instinct.
By the time he reached the service door, his breathing was heavy, and blood—some his, most not—streaked his skin. He pushed through the door, the cool night air hitting him like a shock.
:-:-:-:
The alarms blared, red lights flashing along the sterile corridors. Jessica kept her head down, her heart pounding as she blended into the chaos she'd orchestrated. Guards and nurses rushed past her, shouting orders and struggling to contain the sudden surge of activity in the infirmary.
"Everything's fine," she whispered to herself, her fingers brushing the lanyard holding her ID badge. "He'll make it out. He has to."
She ducked into a supply closet and pulled out the small comm device she'd swiped from a guard's locker earlier. Pressing the button, she whispered, "James, can you hear me?"
A moment passed before his voice crackled through the line. "Loud and clear, Jess. Cameras are down, door's unlocked. Nice work."
Jessica let out a shaky breath, leaning against the wall. "Be careful. There are more guards than we expected."
"I'm always careful," Logan replied, his voice laced with wry humor. Then, more seriously, "Stay safe, Jess. I'll see you on the outside."
The line went dead.
:-:-:-:-:
Logan moved through the corridors like a shadow, his enhanced senses guiding him. The guards were better armed and more alert than he'd hoped, but that didn't matter. His claws slid out with a soft snikt, and he sprang into action.
The first guard barely had time to raise his weapon before Logan slammed into him, knocking him unconscious with a brutal punch. The second guard fired a shot, the bullet grazing Logan's shoulder. He growled, lunging forward and disarming the man in a single fluid motion.
Blood seeped from the wound, but it didn't slow him. His healing factor was already at work, knitting the skin back together as he pressed on.
:-:-:-:-:
Back in the infirmary, Jessica stayed in motion, drawing attention away from Logan's escape route. She deliberately knocked over a tray of medical supplies, sending syringes and vials clattering to the floor.
"Miss Martin!" a nurse snapped, glaring at her. "What are you doing?"
"Sorry!" Jessica said, feigning nervousness. "It's chaos in here. I was just trying to help."
The nurse muttered something under her breath and waved Jessica off, too preoccupied to notice her slipping away.
Jessica ducked into another utility room, her hands shaking as she checked the comm device. "James, are you out?" she whispered.
Static crackled, followed by Logan's voice: "Almost. Gotta say, these guys don't go down easy."
Jessica clenched her fists. "You can do this. The service door is clear. Just keep going."
:-:-:-:
Logan reached the service door, his breathing ragged. He shoved it open, the cold night air hitting his face like a slap.
:-:-:-:
But before he could step outside, a squad of guards rounded the corner, rifles raised.
"Freeze!" one of them shouted.
Logan growled, his claws sliding out again. "Guess we're doin' this the hard way."
The fight was brutal. Logan moved like a predator, his claws slicing through weapons and striking with precision. But the guards were relentless, their training and numbers wearing him down.
Suddenly, a burst of gunfire rang out, and Logan stumbled, a tranquilizer dart embedded in his side. His vision blurred, and he swayed on his feet.
:-:-:-:
Jessica watched from a distance, her heart in her throat as Logan faltered. She had followed him against his wishes, knowing the guards would increase their patrols. Now, seeing him cornered, she knew she couldn't stay hidden.
Steeling herself, she grabbed a fire extinguisher from the wall and rushed forward.
"Over here!" she shouted, throwing the extinguisher with all her strength. It smashed into one of the guards, knocking him off balance.
The distraction was enough. Logan surged forward with a snarl, taking down the remaining guards with a desperate burst of strength.
"Jess," he growled as he staggered toward her, his claws retracting. "Told you to stay outta this."
Jessica slipped her arm around his waist, supporting him as they moved toward the loading dock. "You're welcome," she shot back, her tone equal parts exasperated and relieved.
:-:-:-:
They made it to the edge of the woods just as the sun began to rise, the golden light filtering through the trees. Logan leaned heavily on Jessica, his body still fighting off the tranquilizer.
"You okay?" Jessica asked, her voice tight with worry.
Logan nodded, though his movements were sluggish. "I'll be fine. Just need… a minute."
They sat against a tree, the distant sounds of alarms and shouting fading into the background. Jessica brushed a strand of hair from her face, her hands still trembling.
"We did it," she said softly, more to herself than to Logan.
Logan glanced at her, a faint smile tugging at his lips. "You did it, Jess. Don't sell yourself short."
Jessica shook her head, tears pricking at her eyes. "I couldn't have done this without you."
Logan reached out, his hand resting lightly on hers. "You're tougher than you think."
For a moment, they sat in silence, the gravity of what they'd just done settling over them. Then Logan pushed himself to his feet, offering Jessica his hand.
"C'mon," he said. "We gotta keep movin'. They'll be after us soon enough."
Jessica took his hand, her resolve hardening. "Then we better not let them catch us."
Together, they disappeared into the woods, leaving the hospital—and its horrors—behind.
:-:-:-:
Jessica sat on the edge of the bed, her fingers tracing the faded floral pattern of the bedspread. The events of the past 24 hours replayed in her mind—the alarms, the gunfire, Logan's blood staining her hands. Her chest felt tight, a mix of fear and relief that they'd both made it this far.
Across the room, Logan leaned against the window, his silhouette framed by the dim orange glow of the streetlamp outside. He had stripped off his torn shirt, revealing his muscular frame, the faint scars on his skin already fading as his healing factor did its work.
"You're quiet," Jessica said softly, breaking the silence.
Logan glanced over his shoulder, his expression unreadable. "Just thinkin'."
"About what?"
"About how close that was," Logan replied, pushing off the wall and crossing the room. He stopped in front of her, his gaze dropping to her hands. "You didn't have to do this, Jess. You could've walked away."
Jessica looked up at him, her jaw tightening. "Don't you get it? I couldn't. I wouldn't."
Logan crouched in front of her, his hands resting lightly on her knees. "You risked everything for me. Why?"
Her breath caught in her throat, the raw emotion in his voice cutting through her defenses. She hesitated, then reached out to brush her fingers along his jaw. "Because you're not just some experiment, James. You're… more than that. To me."
For a moment, neither of them spoke, the weight of her words hanging in the air. Logan's eyes softened, his usual guarded demeanor slipping. He leaned forward, his forehead resting lightly against hers.
"You're somethin' else, Jess," he murmured.
Their lips met in a kiss, slow and tentative at first, but deepening as the unspoken tension between them finally broke. Jessica's hands slid up his arms, anchoring herself to him as Logan pulled her closer, his strength tempered by surprising gentleness.
They didn't speak as Logan guided her back onto the bed, his touch reverent, as though she might disappear if he wasn't careful. In that moment, the chaos of the world outside melted away, leaving only the two of them and the fragile connection they had built.
:-:-:-:-:
Jessica lay awake, her head resting on Logan's chest, listening to the steady rhythm of his breathing. His arm was draped protectively over her, his fingers idly tracing patterns along her shoulder.
"James," she said quietly, breaking the silence.
"Yeah?"
"What happens now?"
Logan let out a long breath, his hand stilling. "I don't know, Jess. But I do know this ain't over. They'll come after me. After us."
Jessica sat up, pulling the blanket around her shoulders. "Then we'll keep running. Together."
Logan shook his head, sitting up to face her. "You can't, Jess. You got a chance to lay low, maybe even disappear. If you stick with me, they'll find you. And I can't let that happen."
Her eyes filled with tears, but she held his gaze. "I'm not afraid of them, James. I'm afraid of losing you."
Logan reached out, his hand cupping her cheek. "You saved my life. I'll never forget that. But I gotta keep you safe, Jess. Even if it means lettin' you go."
The Goodbye
By dawn, they were standing outside the motel, the air crisp and quiet except for the distant hum of a passing car. Logan's jacket was slung over his shoulder, his expression a careful mask of calm.
"You'll go to the contact I gave you," Logan said, his voice steady. "He'll get you set up somewhere safe."
Jessica nodded, clutching the piece of paper he'd handed her the night before. "And you?"
Logan smirked faintly. "Don't worry about me, Jess. I've been doin' this a long time."
Her heart ached as she stepped closer, her hand brushing against his. "I'm going to worry about you, whether you like it or not."
For a moment, Logan didn't respond. Then he leaned down, pressing a soft, lingering kiss to her lips. When he pulled back, his voice was barely above a whisper. "Take care of yourself, Jess."
Tears blurred her vision as she watched him turn and walk away, his figure disappearing into the early morning mist. Jessica wrapped her arms around herself, the cold biting through her sweater.
:-:-:-:-:
Jessica stood at the nurse's station, scribbling notes onto a patient's chart. The hum of fluorescent lights and the soft beeping of monitors filled the otherwise quiet ward. It had been a long shift, but she didn't mind the work. It kept her busy, gave her something to focus on other than the ache in her heart.
She placed the chart back in its slot and rested a hand on her growing belly, the gentle curve now unmistakable beneath her scrubs. A small smile tugged at her lips as she felt a flutter—her baby stretching or turning.
"Not much longer now," she murmured.
The baby was her constant companion, a source of hope and strength in the quiet moments when her mind wandered to James. She hadn't seen or heard from him since that morning at the motel, but she understood why. He was protecting her the only way he knew how.
"Jessica, you okay?"
She turned to see another nurse, Karen, watching her with concern. Karen was in her early forties, with kind eyes and a no-nonsense attitude that reminded Jessica a little of her own mother.
Jessica smiled faintly. "Yeah, just tired."
Karen raised an eyebrow. "Well, you've earned it. You've been pulling extra shifts all week. Go home, get some rest. That little one's going to need you at full strength."
Jessica chuckled softly. "You sound like my doctor."
"Maybe because I'm right," Karen replied with a smirk. "Go on. I'll cover for you if anything comes up."
Reluctantly, Jessica nodded and gathered her things. She appreciated Karen's kindness, even though she hated leaving her coworkers short-handed.
:-:-:-:-:
The apartment was small but cozy, a far cry from the life she'd imagined for herself a year ago. Jessica set her bag down on the kitchen counter and flicked on the light, the faint hum of the refrigerator the only sound in the quiet space.
She ran a hand over her belly as she kicked off her shoes, her mind drifting to James. She missed him every day—the way he could make her laugh, the quiet strength he exuded even in the face of danger.
But she also knew he was doing what he had to do. Staying away meant keeping her and the baby safe, and she couldn't fault him for that.
Jessica walked into the small nursery she'd been putting together over the past few weeks. The walls were painted a soft yellow, and a secondhand crib sat in the corner, its bars freshly sanded and painted white. She'd done most of it herself, saving every penny she could from her job at the hospital.
"Not much longer," she whispered again, tracing a hand over the edge of the crib. "We'll be okay. I promise."
:-:-:-:-:
Jessica settled onto the couch with a cup of tea, her feet propped up on the coffee table. She opened her notebook, flipping past pages of budget calculations and baby supply lists to the back where she'd written a letter she hadn't dared to send.
James,
I don't know if you'll ever see this, but I wanted you to know that we're okay. I'm okay. You were right—I've managed to stay under the radar. The people who were after you haven't come looking for me, and for that, I'm grateful. But I miss you. I think about you every day, wondering if you're safe, if you've found a place to rest.
I wish you were here. Not just for me, but for the baby. I wish you could see them, feel them kicking. They're strong, James. I know they'll be just like you.
Jessica traced her fingers over the page, a lump forming in her throat. She closed the notebook and set it aside, leaning her head back against the couch.
"Stay safe, James," she whispered into the quiet room. "Wherever you are."
:-:-:-:-:
Jessica was at the nurse's station, reviewing patient charts, when she noticed a man in a suit lingering near the reception desk. He was tall, clean-cut, and carried himself with the confidence of someone used to getting answers.
Her stomach flipped as she watched him flash a badge to the receptionist. Though she couldn't hear what he was saying, the receptionist's nervous glance in her direction set her on edge.
Jessica quickly turned away, pretending to be engrossed in her work. Her heart raced as the man approached, his polished shoes clicking against the tile floor.
"Miss Martin?" he asked, his voice smooth and professional.
Jessica forced a polite smile. "Yes?"
"I'm Agent Reynolds," he said, flashing his badge again. "I'm with the government. I just have a few questions about your previous employment."
Her hands tightened on the clipboard. "I'm sorry, I don't discuss past employers with anyone. Confidentiality agreements, you understand."
Reynolds smiled thinly. "Of course. But I think you'll find this matter… important. It's about Project Sentinel."
Jessica's blood ran cold, but she kept her expression neutral. "I'm sorry, I don't know what you're talking about."
Reynolds tilted his head, studying her. "We have reason to believe you may have information about a former subject of interest. A man known as Logan."
Jessica's stomach churned. She met his gaze evenly. "I'm afraid you have the wrong person, Agent Reynolds. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have work to do."
Without waiting for a response, she turned and walked away, her heart pounding in her chest. She could feel his eyes on her, but she didn't look back.
:-:-:-:
That evening, Jessica packed a bag with essentials—clothes, documents, cash. She knew better than to assume Agent Reynolds would give up easily. If they were asking about Logan, it was only a matter of time before they connected the dots.
As she zipped the bag closed, she placed a hand on her belly, feeling the baby's faint movements. "Don't worry," she murmured. "I won't let anything happen to you. Or to him."
Jessica glanced out the window at the darkening sky, her mind racing. She'd built a new life in Sunnydale, but now it seemed that life was at risk. She had to be ready for whatever came next.
:-:-:-:-:
Jessica had just finished her shift and was walking toward the bus stop when a voice stopped her in her tracks.
"Jessica?"
She turned, and her breath caught. Standing a few feet away was Anthony Harris. His face was thinner, and his expression softer than she remembered, but there was no mistaking the familiar blue eyes.
"Anthony," she said, the name catching awkwardly in her throat.
He approached cautiously, his hands shoved into his jacket pockets. "I heard you were back in town. Thought I'd stop by and see how you're doing."
Jessica glanced down, her hand instinctively resting on her pregnant belly. "I'm… fine," she said, though her tone betrayed the truth.
Anthony's gaze flickered to her stomach, and something unreadable crossed his face. "You look… good," he said awkwardly.
Jessica gave a faint smile. "Thanks. It's been a while."
"Yeah," Anthony said, rubbing the back of his neck. "I, uh, I heard about your mom. I'm sorry."
Jessica's chest tightened. Losing her mother shortly after leaving the organization had been another blow she hadn't fully recovered from. "Thanks," she said softly.
There was an uncomfortable pause before Anthony cleared his throat. "Look, I know things didn't end well between us, but… if you need anything, I'd like to help. You shouldn't have to go through this alone."
Jessica hesitated, studying his face. There was a sincerity there she hadn't seen in a long time, and despite everything that had happened between them, a part of her was grateful.
"Alright," she said finally. "But just as friends, Anthony. That's all I can offer."
Anthony nodded quickly. "Of course. Friends."
Anthony became a regular presence in Jessica's life, showing up with groceries, helping her set up the nursery, and offering her company on the nights when the loneliness became too much.
One evening, as they sat together assembling a crib, Anthony looked over at her. "You ever think about what's next? After the baby comes?"
Jessica tightened the bolt on the crib and sighed. "Every day. I just… I want to give them a better life than what I've had. Somewhere safe, somewhere far away from everything."
Anthony frowned. "You're really planning on leaving Sunnydale?"
Jessica hesitated, then nodded. "I don't see another choice. There are things… from my past. People. I can't take any chances."
Anthony didn't press, but the concern in his eyes was clear. "Well, whatever you decide, I'll help however I can."
Jessica glanced at him, her heart softening. "Thank you, Anthony. I mean that."
Jessica gripped Anthony's hand tightly as another wave of pain surged through her. The room was a blur of motion and sound, but her focus remained on one thing—delivering her children safely into the world.
"You're doing great, Jess," Anthony said, his voice steady despite the beads of sweat on his brow.
Jessica managed a faint smile, though her exhaustion was evident. "Just… get them out safe," she whispered.
Moments later, the cries of a baby filled the room, and the doctor smiled. "It's a boy."
The nurse carefully placed the baby in Jessica's arms. Tears blurred her vision as she looked down at him. "Alexander," she said softly, her voice trembling with love and relief.
Anthony grinned beside her. "He's perfect, Jess. Just like his mom."
But before she could fully process the moment, another contraction hit.
"Alright, Jessica," the doctor said, his tone calm but firm. "One more to go."
Jessica closed her eyes, summoning the last of her strength. Minutes later, a second cry filled the room.
"It's a girl," the doctor announced.
Jessica's exhaustion gave way to a flood of emotion as she saw her daughter for the first time. "Alexander and Laura," she murmured, naming them both.
The nurses took Laura to a nearby bassinet for observation, explaining that she needed extra care due to her slightly smaller size. Jessica nodded, too overwhelmed with relief to notice the shadowed glances exchanged by the medical staff.
:-:-:-:-:-:
The hospital was quiet, the hum of fluorescent lights and the occasional distant beeping of monitors the only sounds. In the nursery, rows of newborns lay swaddled in bassinets, their tiny forms illuminated by the soft glow of a lamp in the corner.
Laura's bassinet was at the far end of the room. A nurse stood beside it, checking the monitors attached to the baby. She was young, her uniform crisp and her demeanor calm—but her movements betrayed a hint of unease.
"Is everything ready?" a low voice asked from the shadows.
The nurse turned, startled. A tall man in a suit stepped into the light, his face impassive. His presence radiated authority and intimidation.
"Yes, sir," she said nervously, glancing at the sleeping baby. "But are you sure this is… necessary? The mother—"
The man cut her off with a sharp look. "You've been well compensated to follow orders, Nurse Fields. Do your job, and keep your questions to yourself."
The nurse swallowed hard and nodded. Carefully, she disconnected the monitoring equipment from Laura's bassinet.
The man stepped forward, his gaze falling on the baby. "She's the one," he said quietly, more to himself than to the nurse. "Genetic markers match exactly. A perfect candidate."
"Will she be safe?" the nurse asked hesitantly.
The man smirked coldly. "Safe enough—for now."
He reached into his coat and pulled out a vial containing a clear liquid. "This will keep her sedated during transport. Administer it and prepare the vehicle."
:-:-:-:-:
Minutes later, the nurse pushed Laura's bassinet down the hallway, her footsteps echoing softly in the stillness. Her hands trembled as she reached the elevator, where another man in scrubs—clearly not a hospital employee—was waiting.
"The mother won't ask questions?" the man asked as they loaded the bassinet into the elevator.
The nurse shook her head. "She will be told that the baby passed away from respiratory complications. She'll believe her son is all she has left."
The man gave a curt nod. "Good. The less she knows, the better."
The elevator doors slid shut, and the nurse felt a pang of guilt as the floor numbers ticked downward.
:-:-:-:
In the hospital's underground parking garage, a black van idled near the service entrance. Two men in tactical gear stood by, their postures tense and alert.
The bassinet was carefully loaded into the van, and the man in the suit climbed in after it. He glanced at the baby, now peacefully sedated, before pulling a folder from his briefcase.
"Designation: X-23," he murmured, scrawling the label across the top of a document.
The van pulled out of the garage, disappearing into the night. Inside, Laura lay undisturbed, her tiny chest rising and falling with each breath.
:-:-:-:-:
Jessica stirred awake, her body heavy with exhaustion. The soft creak of the door drew her attention, and a nurse entered, her face pale but professional.
"Miss Martin," the nurse said gently. "I'm so sorry to tell you this, but your daughter… she didn't make it."
Jessica's heart stopped. "What?"
"She was experiencing respiratory complications shortly after birth. We transferred her to the NICU, but…" The nurse's voice trailed off, her expression carefully neutral. "There was nothing we could do."
Jessica clutched at her chest, her breath hitching. "No," she whispered. "No, she was fine. I saw her—"
The nurse shook her head. "Sometimes these things don't show right away. It was very sudden."
Tears spilled down Jessica's cheeks as Anthony rushed into the room. He froze at the sight of her, his face falling.
"Jess," he said softly, moving to her side. "I'm so sorry."
Jessica leaned into him, her sobs muffled against his shoulder. All she could think about was the weight of her daughter in her arms, the sound of her cries, and how quickly it had all been taken away.
:-:-:-:-:
The black van sped down a desolate highway, its destination a facility hidden in the hills. Inside, Laura remained asleep, oblivious to the world around her.
"She'll be prepped immediately," the man in the suit said to his companion as they reviewed the documents. "Begin the initial tests. We'll monitor her progress closely.
She won't remember this night, but they will shape her into something extraordinary—and dangerous."
The van turned onto a gravel road, disappearing into the shadows of the forest.