Should I wake her? If I do, how will she react? I probably shouldn't and just let her sleep. I-... I need a drink. Lightly stepping backward, he closed the room's door, and made his way to the alcohol cabinet. Upon opening, a note was attached to a glass bottle.What's this?

"G,

Lay off of the heavy booze, okay? Or at least try to. You're better than that. I left this as a replacement. It's a recommendation from me to you. Enjoy.

- B"

Next time I see you, remind me how we're friends. 11 at night. Huh. I think this couch is soft enough to sleep on. Removing his jacket and propping it down on the cushion next to him, his eyes caught sight of the "reward" Caroline gave the night before. Guess I forgot to take this out. Not so much a surprise that she gave me $400, but for finding someone she doesn't care for? Or...

The bedroom door been opened and a small knocking had caught his attention. Glancing up from the cash in his hands, the girl had come into his sight. She leaned against the wall and weakly waved. Hello.

You made everyone worried! How did you even get in here?

I did? Chell briefly scanned the room and stretched out her arms, yawning. And I don't remember. She pointed to his hands. Where did you get that?

It's... It's a reward.

For? Why does it have the Seal of Aperture on the band?

It was given to me by Her. She...

'She...' what?

Rewarded me with this for finding you. Aggravated, she started for the front. Hey, where are yo- wait!

I am not some bounty that can be collected. She felt one of his hands around one of her arms. Let me- ... Ceasing to struggle to break free, she turned to face him, seeing that he was holding up two decorative slips. Are those-...

Passenger tickets that'll get us on the Borealis. It leaves in a week's time and I can catch us a ride to the station. You can forget about this place, you can forget about Caroline, everything. Think abou- hnngugh.

That was for when you did that to me.

Okay, okay. I got it. He lifted his shirt to reveal where she had punched. That left a bruise.

Good. She glanced out the window behind him, noticing the lack of distinct color outside. It's too dark to go back "home". Can I stay?

Only fair. You didn't destroy my apartment, so that's a relief. Letting go of her and placing the tickets back into his pocket, he had walked back to the couch and turned on the radio. Take a seat, if you'd like. She sat adjacent and lay down. Um...

She lifted her head up. Hm?

N-nothing. Are you comfortable like that? She rested her head back down and paid him no attention. I'll take that as a 'yes'. The soft music had lulled Chell into a peaceful her up in his arms, he carried her back into his room. Noting that she was fast asleep, he had taken additional precautions to avoid making the slightest sound. Laying her head upon the pillows and pulling the blanket over her, he wrote a message and left her hat on the nightstand. We all left a surprise for you at that ice cream shop we went to. Sleep well and hopefully this'll be the first thing you see when you wake up.

Gordon exited his apartment, walked down the hall to the roof access staircase, and proceeded up. As soon as he stepped outside, the cold wind brushed against his body, and the cool temperature blended nicely with the dark blue-black sky. This is one of the tallest structures in the city, I can see everything from here. He perched himself upon the top of the access stairs casing, increasing the view. Stars are shining, albeit faintly, and the glow from the lights of the city are a perfect companion. I don't have to run for my life from the Metros again. It's a beautiful night. He sensed a bit of emptiness inside. Just wish I had somebody to share it with.


"This stupid key..! Work dammit!" Barney struggled trying to win the fight against the lock, wriggling the key around, eventually managing to open it. "There we go, you dumb thing." As he put his keys back into his pocket, he muttered under his breath "I have to replace you, again." Clearing his throat, he stepped inside. "I don't have much here, but the guest room should last you until morning. Or, at least until you're back on your feet. Stay as long as you'd like, I could use a roommate."

"Thanks." Doug removed his scuffed black shoes before entering. "Damn, I just waxed these and the shine is already gone." Distraught, he set his footwear down by the door. "Were you serious about the roommate thing?"

"Yeah." Barney was by his glass cabinet, taking out two averaged sized cups. "That guest / spare room is available, I've got no takers, and you look like you need a place."

"I have two spare keys, but they're in my work desk. I'm not sure when I'll be able to even go back there. Given I haven't had all my possessions thrown out without me knowing."

"Hey, don't worry yourself too much about it. You've just got to think positively, 'kay?" Calhoun brought out two cans of soda, poured the contents into the cups, and offered Rattmann one. "Thirsty?"

"Am I ever." There was a faint pep in his voice as he took one of them and drank out of it. "So, if you don't mind me asking, how long have you been disguising yourself?"

"Disguising? Ah, you mean my 'day job'. I lost track, but I'm guessing a while. Now if you're wondering about my 'night job', I do have a partner for that. She and her parents just happen to be out of town and most likely won't be back for a while, so you didn't get the chance to meet her."

"Do you mind me asking the reason?"

"Business. And by business, I mean travelling for gigs here and there. Her parents are pretty much celebrities in their own respects. You're going to ask, right? I'll save you the time. They're the Vances."

"You know the big names, don't you? If I ever do meet them, I'll try to hold back the questions."

"I don't think they'd mind, but hey, do whatever. I still need to arrange that interview with Gina and Co-co for you."

"Don't worry too much about it. I don't think any of us are mentally stable to do anything. For a while."

"I've got a hunch you're right about that." Calhoun sensed his eyes droop, nearly dozing off from the hours on end he'd been awake. "Haven't caught any shut eye for more than a day. It's already midnight." The two walked over to the doors, turned their heads to face each other, and easily saw the sleepless looks on the other's face. "I'm off to sleep, so see ya in the morning."

"Oh wow, I'm in the same position." Rattmann turned the handle and the guest doorway opened. "Though I've been awake longer or lack a decent amount of sleep more than you. Good night and thanks again for letting me stay."


"Co-co! Wake up, Co-co!"

"Nnnn..." Colette mumbled, face down in the pillows. She picked her head up to look at the clock. "It's eight in the morning, you know I don't wake up until ten on days off."

Gina held a mug towards her. "Coffee?"

"Eh, sure." Colette extended her right arm, gripped the handle, and set the mug on the nightstand. "What do you want?"

"We have somebody new!"

Combating the urge to fall back asleep, Colette brought herself to be seated upward. She rubbed her eyes and yawned as she questioned. "How long have you been awake? And, oh really? Who are they?"

"Since seven and her name is Judith."

"My god, you are insane." She reached over for her drink and sipped. "Does her last name begin with 'M'?"

"'Mossman', yes. I don't think she's much of a threat, but she's now Breen's assistant."

"We haven't even met the woman and yet you're already set on trusting her with your life."

"I don't trust her yet. I'm just saying I'm, uh, happy we have a new person with us."

"...Right. Sorry. I still have last night on my mind. Never expected to do something like that. I just don't get how we're expected to have a strong dislike for Aperture. That girl with Freeman doesn't look like she'd double-cross anybody. Not us, not Atlas and PB, What's-Her-Face, and I hope not him. For his sake, poor guy's probably not so well."

"You're right. I think they're getting along. Not so sure that Caroline and Breen would approve, let alone allow them. Do you think he found her?"

"Don't get ahead of yourself. Did you at least make breakfast?"

"Yeah. I made eggs and toasted some bagels."

"I'm going to get dressed and I'll meet you downstairs." Green tousled her own hair, moving her blanket in order to stand. "Go on, I'll be down in a few." Respecting her girlfriend's privacy, Cross left immediately. "Hmm, I guess only brushing my hair is good for now. Unless we need to leave for something." Cup in her hands, she exited and headed for the living area. The scent of Gina's breakfast made its way to Colette. "It smells delicious!"

"Thanks! I tried some stuff that Magnusson showed me." With a plate in her left hand, Gina arranged some food into a presentable manner; cooked eggs cut into heart shapes, fresh-cut fruit, a toasted bagel sliced in half, and an accompanying scoop of cream cheese.

"So now there's an identity to this 'J.M.', but who's the other guy?"

"I'm still wondering about that. If we're called in, we might just meet her."

"What do you mean 'if'? He still has yet to give us our checks."

"Ah, right. When are you planning to go?"

"Tomorrow. Maybe." Colette evenly spread cream cheese on one bagel half and nibbled. "Do you think more of those 'things' are out there?"

"Honestly, I wouldn't doubt it. I have to say, though, your markswoman skills haven't rusted at all." She noticed Colette blush and avoid eye contact, smiling at how she made a hitwoman she'd known for most of her life embarrassed. "Forgot you're not one for compliments that often."


"New glass? It doesn't look too different from the others, but the 'new window' scent might be here for a while. I still wonder how -… Isn't this a pleasant surprise? Hello there, Caroline."

"Greg." Caroline scanned the surroundings and the newly replaced glass window above the shards of the previous threw her off. "Oh my god, what happened here?"

He shrugged his shoulders and responded nonchalantly. "There was an incident last night. Nothing too serious."

"I'll, uh..." She noticed the soapy smell mixed in with traces of blood and bullets. "I'll take your word for that. Is the gift I reserved still here?"

The man placed a bit of enthusiasm into his voice and a smile appeared upon his face. "Yes, the one for Mr. Johnson is. It's in the vau-"

"No, not that one. The other gift."

"'That' one. Hmm. I'll be right back." Greg opened the door behind him that lead towards the gift storage.

"Pfft." Caroline muttered under her breath. "That's reassuring."

"I don't think the other staff would mind, but come back with me."

Following his lead into the area, she nearly shut the door. "You have something to tell or show me?"

"Why else would I bring you back here? You do want to know what happened, right?"

"Well, yes."

"First, answer me this. Does Cave know that the Girl has your project?"

"What on Earth do you mean the project? The bracelets? I haven't told him yet but he hasn't come back from his travels either."

"Hmm, alright. My next question is does he even know about her."

"...No. Not even one bit. Mind if I ask why you're bringing her up."

"She wasn't here last night, but I assume the band of misfits that was here were looking for her. However, prior to the incident, I did see her with one of them."

"How much earlier?" Caroline tilted her head to the right and cocked an eyebrow up as she wanted an answer.

"Daylight. He was wearing, oddly enough, the colors of Black Mesa."

Caroline crossed her arms and bowed her head down. "And to think I paid the guy just to bring her back safely…"

Greg's eyes narrowed at Caroline's statement. "You did what?"

"Long story short, I brought her with me to a nightclub, we ran into Breen and what's his name."

"Gordon."

"Yeah, him. I think? It doesn't really matter to me. She ran off, I asked him to go after her, he brought her back, and I paid him."

"You're probably unaware, but he's most likely developed feelings for her." Greg went into the inner vault to search for Caroline's second gift, leaving the door ajar.

"You have got to be joking." Caroline slightly raised her voice to be heard.

"Not at all." Greg called back. The sound of boxes shuffling and wrapping paper rustling ceased. "…It's gone."

"Gone!? How is it gone?! It's in a white box and has my insignia on it!"

"False alarm!"

"You'd better hope it was a false alarm!"

"I've just found it."

"Do not give me a heart attack! Jesus, Greg. I know you're one of Cave's most trusted men, but please, don't worry me like that again."

"I almost forgot something. Received a message from Cave himself, he asked me to reserve something special. Said it's for a special event. Do you have any idea what he's talking about?"

"I do. An upcoming performance of mine."

"What type of performance?"

"Opera. It's a hidden talent that I prefer to keep under a pseudonym."

"That was another note. Your lovely singing voice. Our resident tailor is on the second floor and she's waiting for you."

"Cave didn't give you my measurements?"

"He did. Though when making clothing, Mel prefers to have whomever it's being made for present. That way, she feels accomplished and knows that her customer is satisfied with her work. Her assistant, Virgil, should be here in a minute."

"Hello?" A midsized male with neatly kept light brown hair walked in on Greg and Caroline's conversation. "You must be Caroline. Come along, she is eager to meet you."

"Virgil, I presume."

"Yes, ma'am. Miss Mel has various fine materials awaiting your choosing."

"I bet she does. Go on ahead and I'll follow."

"Sure thing!" Virgil led Caroline to the elevator, due to the stairs being closed off temporarily. "Sorry for not informing you of the stairs. Somebody spilled liquids and It has yet to be cleaned up."

"It's not a problem. I didn't feel like walking this morning." With the door sliding open, the elevator ceased to move, indicating the two were on the second floor. "Do you hear a telephone ringing?"

"It's coming from where Mel is. It's not too much of a walk from here. Follow me." He power-walked down the hall in order to answer the ringing as soon as possible. "Hello? Ah, it's you again! Yes, she's here. Uh huh. Caroline is here." Virgil glanced over and gestured for her to take the phone. "I'm handing it over."

Slightly confused and hesitant, Caroline held out one hand and was given the device. "Caroline here. May I ask who's asking for me?"

An all too familiar voice happily spoke. "Hey, how are you doing? I should be back next week."

The woman immediately gained a joyful mien. She knew exactly who had called. "Cave!"


Hnnnh, what time is it? Nine? It's really bright outside. The sunlight illuminated the bedroom, prompting her to squint her eyes in attempt to filter the light out. Did he just leave me here or is he still inside the building? She arose from the bed she was laying in, changed her clothes into one of the spare outfits she brought in her duffle bag, and walked towards the door. Reaching to open it, the door opened from the other side before she touched the handle. Hey, you.

Good morning. You're up and you've changed into something else. Are you hungry? Gordon kissed Chell on her left cheek. I spent some time making breakfast.

Chell had kissed him back and saw herself to the food he prepared. This looks amazing! Even better than Caroline's professional chef can do.

I know somebody that's a pro, though they're not too happy with me because I ruined something of theirs. Once. Still hasn't moved on from that.

Can I use your shower? I feel gross.

Not a problem, just remember that the right is for cold water and the left is hot. There was a slight mishap with the pipes and whoever repaired them swapped the temperatures.

Noted. She ran her fingers through her messy hair and rubbed the back of her neck. I'll be back in a few. Wait for me, yeah?

No rush. Take your time. There's a spare towel already in the bathroom. And – The door shut. - Alright, never mind then. What's got into you, man? Who knows though, she might be the best match for you and you might never see her again if this goes wrong… Water started to run as the shower turning on emitted a quiet hum. Gordon removed his glasses, rubbing his eyes in attempt to clear his mind. Okay, okay, you're worrying yourself too much. Just make some toast and drink something.

Minutes had passed and the water ceased to flow. Moving out of the shower, Chell dried herself with the towel hung on the rail. A mirror was mounted upon the wall and she examined her physique. The bruises are still on my body. Perfect. At least the stink of sweat and what I presume blood is gone for now. Maybe he'll look past them? I wonder if She's thinking about where I am. Most likely not. Damn, I forgot my change clothes. She finished drying her body, wrapped the towel around herself, and found her clothes on the counter. No, wait, here they are. Patting herself with a smaller towel, she dabbed the excess water off. Looking at her spare clothes, she picked up the orange chemise. Undergarments, check. Shirt, check. I haven't worn this in a while, but at least it's still clean. And black shorts.

Huh, nothing interesting in this. Gordon flipped through numerous magazine pages, trying to find something worth reading. However, he only found the news stories from yesterday, clothing advertisements, and promotions for a series of upcoming concerts. Amidst the ads, one for the Borealis was printed double-page style. Just a few more days. Then we're off for wherever the ship takes us.

I didn't keep you waiting too long, did I?

Maybe a few minutes. So, not that long. I don't really know, I didn't keep track. Help yourself to whatever's here. Tea or coffee?

Tea, please. She introduced me to both, but I'm not too big on coffee. One of Her assistants gets all kinds. What do you have here? She was handed a palm sized chest full of flavored bags. Browsing through the various options, she picked out jasmine rose. Hmm, this one.

I had no idea that I still have one of that flavor. Good choice. The kettle whistled and a stream of steam escaped the spout. Oh, look, the water's done. Any sized glass or it doesn't really matter?

She shrugged. Surprise me.

Hmm, alright. He poured hot water into a midsized cup and set the bag. Here.

Thank you. She spread some jam on an English muffin with a silver knife and took a bite. Mmm, this is delectable.

Bought them this week, so I hope it is. You don't have to sit at the café table. I don't. I usually prefer to sit on the windowsill because of the view. But that's just me.

Perks of the top floor, right?

Right. Also extra cash and some creativity. He seated himself on the cushion adjacent the window; two drawers nestled beneath. Come here and see for yourself.

She positioned herself in front of him, leaning back to rest upon his chest, and peered outward. Her eyes widened as a clear smile formed. It's lovely. Chell saw the newspaper Gordon had in his hands. Is that today's?

What? This? Yeah, would you like to see it? She eagerly nodded and he handed it to her. The headline printed in large letters prompted a head tilt and an eyebrow raise. What the-… This can't be right…

She unfolded and straightened out the paper to view the front story. This is about an incident that's dated last night. But it says nothing happened.

I was out with a few people, we were minding our own business, and then… He formed a gun with his hand and pretended to fire. There were a few bullets. No one got hurt, but it's still on my mind. It's a good thing you weren't there because they were Aperture-affiliated.

I know what you're referring to. Were they dressed in white, black, and red? He bobbed in affirmation as she sighed. She calls them the Turrets. Chell folded the paper back, set it down on her lap, and both of them a swig of their beverages.

You know what'd make this situation better?

Huh? What?

I'm thinking… He nuzzled the side of her neck and wrapped his arms around to cuddle. Maybe this.

In response to his action, she laughed.