The box drone stopped scanning, and a bright light erupted from it. In the next moment, the cube transformed into a sleek chest-like container. Its surface gleamed like polished white metal, reflecting their appearances like a mirror. It floated gently toward them before stopping an arm's length away. "Elvira, let me open it first." Ben stepped forward, his voice firm. He figured his body was tougher than hers, and if this was some kind of trap, he could tank it. Besides, he had a ton of biomass to regenerate—he was the best choice, no question.
But Elvira thought differently. A warm smile curled her lips. "Alright, my beloved." Her gaze lingered on him instead of the box, her heart pounding faster. A complicated warmth spread through her chest—fondness mixed with guilt.
