Tyren smiled. “Ever considered joining the military? We could use a strong, young person like you.”
Military. The thought had never crossed my mind. I wondered if I could rescue girls like me who were held captive. Dish out justice to their abductors.
What other choice did I have? I nodded and shrugged. “I’m open to possibilities.”
“Don’t worry,” Tyren said, locking his gaze on me. “You’re safe now.”
Twenty-Four
3 January 2040
Reed,
How the hell are you? Tyren promised me this letter would get to you. I trust him. He’s one of the good guys. Maybe the only one besides you.
You won’t believe where I am. I’m in the MILITARY.
Basic training—Marines.
Me, of all people.
The most rebellious person you know becoming a jarhead. Weird, right?
But you know what? I’m doing okay here. I feel like it’s the first time I belong somewhere.
You’re probably scratching your head and wondering how the hell I ended up here in the first place. Well, it’s a long story, and it ain’t pretty.
Let’s just say the couple who “adopted” me were evil assholes. They held me against my will for a few months.
A SWAT team raided the place and rescued me. It was badass. Captain Reginald Tyren is the man in charge. I guess he felt sorry for me because he offered for me to join his military outfit.
What other choice did I have?
So, I accepted and wound up in basic. I’m at a camp in Germany—across the world. Can you believe it?
It’s nice here—green forests with lots of tall trees. But it rains a lot which is a drag because my boots get so damn muddy.
Basic is all right. When I first arrived, they gave me a lot of medical tests. The bastards inserted a chip in my arm which I protested. But Tyren told me it’s standard procedure. He has one too.
After that, I took an Initial Strength Test. It was a joke. They make new recruits run a mile, then see how many sit-ups and pull-ups we can manage to see if we’re in good enough shape to start boot camp. Well, I aced the sucker and outperformed all the others. Tyren was impressed.
They wake us early every day and we start out with a five-mile run before we pile into mess hall. Then, I head to martial arts (my favorite), first aid, and a few other classes about values and nonsense like that.
I’ve been getting to know some other recruits. They’re okay, I guess. Mostly, I keep to myself. It’s been tough since the lab. For some reason, I can’t remember everything that happened there.
I heard the training will get more intense over the coming weeks. This first part is a cakewalk. I’m up for a challenge, but nervous too.
What’s happening with you at Woodlawn? Is that asshole Kilpatrick still in charge? Are the other kids treating you better these days?
I miss hanging out in the yard with you. Write me back at this address and let me know what’s going on. Tyren said any letter will reach me here, but it might take a little longer.
Sorry our communications are so old-school. Who the hell writes letters on paper anymore? But Tyren says the rules are the rules, and this is how it’s always been for new Marine recruits. We can’t have any tech or comms devices when we’re in training.
Be sure to write me. Soon!
Ida
12 January 2040
Dear Ida,
Holy crap! I did a dance for joy when I received your letter. I had no idea what had happened to you or where you had moved. Kilpatrick wouldn’t tell me anything. He said it was confidential. He’s most likely reading these letters, just so you know.
I miss you a lot. Things here are same as ever except the bigger kids mostly avoid me now. Actually, all the kids avoid me. Even the loners and little kids got frightened when you beat up Marc.
It doesn’t matter. I’ve been doing some research, and I’ll apply to join the Marines too! That way, we can both be in the military and meet up again soon.
I have to figure out the exact details, but I’m working on it. You’ll be way ahead of me, of course. But, that’s no surprise.
Mostly, I want out of Woodlawn.
I’m really glad you made it somewhere. Basic training sounds tough, but you’re the strongest person I’ve ever met. If anyone can succeed there, you can.
They’ll probably put you in charge one of these days!
There have been several visitors la--
[unintelligible smudges
and cross-outs]
heard the kids who got adopted ended up in good homes. It’s great to see others finding families. For a long time, I wondered if anyone would adopt me, but I’ve given up hope. I’m a runt compared to the other kids. Who would want me?
No matter. My heart is set on the Marines anyway because that’s where you are.
I’m dying to know what else is happening there. How’s your training going?
Write back ASAP!
In sincerest friendship,
Reed Russell
20 January 2040
Hey Reed,
I was glad to hear back, but I’m worried. Someone scratched out part of your letter. (I think we both know who).
You don’t want to get “adopted,” trust me. I have a lousy feeling about all the kids getting placed in homes lately.
Just do me a favor, and keep a low profile, okay? I’m glad the bullies are staying away from you. If they do mess with you, don’t fight back. Ignore what I told you about standing up to them. The people who kidnapped me are looking to take away strong people. The more you can be weak and boring, the better.
I respect you for wanting to join the Marines, but I’ve got to level with you. You’re not cut out for it. It has to be said. The training is intense.
Maybe you could join another military branch? I heard Space Guard is looking for scientists. You’re brilliant, Reed. Seriously, it’s like you’re a genius or something.
There’s a lot of
