For the second time in what seemed as many minutes, Max watched helplessly as blood pooled around Chloe's dying body. An uncontrolled scream left her lips as she struggled fruitlessly against the bindings holding her to the chair. After a few seconds, she gave up, pulling upon every ounce of self control that she had to remain coherent. Vainly, she tried to piece together what happened. It felt just moments ago that she was by the lighthouse, with Chloe. They shot her-and she took it back. But too much? It was uncontrollable, forcing her back and back in time, until her head exploded. Then she was here, in this decrepit shack, captured by the very assholes she tried to save them from.
S-She got me a photo. God, there's already so much blood on it! H-how long was I out for? How did she even find me? Did they lure her here? Did she know what was going to happen? And where-when am I going back to? Fuck it.
Max didn't leave herself any more time to recollect where or when the photo was taken. She could see herself in it, and that was all the information she needed. Throwing caution to the wind, she gazed into it, trying to remember how this power worked. She had only used it once before. She remembered that it felt automatic-it happened without thinking.
"Well. This is certainly fucked," Jacob complained. "Dad's not going to be happy your girlfriend killed his best friend's son. No tears lost there, though. Bit a creeper if you ask me."
If it's one thing I will regret, it'll be undoing Nathan's death. Fucker deserved it.
Max remained silent, shifting her frame as close as she could to the photo, peering into it with all available attention.
Jacob laughed. "I knew you liked photography, but now really isn't the time, Maxine. Suppose I should say something cliché, like make peace with your god. But I don't really give a shit. Plus, you don't seem the religious type." Jacob raised the gun. This time it was pointed at Max's head.
As if on cue, Max felt that fundamental shift in reality. Like everything was becoming a dream. The world within the photograph began to feel real, as if it contained its own universe. Uncanny currents began to twist all five senses in an impossible manner. Chloe's voice drifted from the picture, filling Max with hope. She sounded happy, her voice full of excitement and expectation.
I'm coming, Chloe. For the last time. No way you're dying again.
And good-bye, asshole. I just wish you could exist to regret this.
Her power took hold, and everything faded to white.
"Max? You okay? Your face just went hella pale."
Chloe lowered Max's polaroid camera to her chest. Her eyes gave Max a concerned look.
"Dude, I've told you a million times already," Chloe continued. "You don't have shit to be nervous about. Just remember I'll be in-"
Max didn't give her a chance to finish the sentence. "Chloe," she cried, flinging herself forward. Chloe had to practically drop the camera to catch her. Max allowed herself to go limp against Chloe's chest, letting the taller girl hold her, while she struggled to keep from breaking down into sobs. While she recovered, Max realized she was in her costume.
That's-that's right. Chloe took a picture just before we left for the play.
A veritable shudder of relief flowed through Max. She had only gone back a day or so. She still didn't know how long she was out for, after unlocking her powers again.
"M-Max? What's... what's going on?" Max knew that voice. Chloe was already figuring it out. Not wanting to waste any more time, Max pulled away, so their eyes could meet.
"Chloe, tomorrow... Nathan and Jacob are going to try to kill us. If-if we don't change things, they'll get away with it! Listen, I-my Mom's going to pay us a visit. But I think she's just a scout for Eric. She's going to find the money, tell him, and than Jacob's going to go fucking ape shit. Chloe, she can't find that money. We have to do something, get it out of the house. I don't care."
Chloe's eyes narrowed a twitch. "Max, we already went over this..."
It was Max's turn for irritation. "I don't care, Chloe. I just-I just watched you get shot. Twice. I can't do this anymore, Chloe! I can't watch you die, again."
That gave Chloe some pause. She sighed, a resigned look falling across her expression. "O-okay, super Max. So... if you're here, from the future, then I guess that means we were wrong about your powers?"
"Only sort of. I'm still not exactly sure. They definitely disappeared when we predicted they would. But, then. Tomorrow. We were up at the lighthouse. They killed you, and, they came back. But it was too much! I... I passed out. Team fuckheads must've gotten to me first. But you were able to get me a photo, before they killed you again."
"I-shit. Okay. So what do we do?"
"First, don't let me go to the play, Chloe. It's going to be a disaster. Call Mr. Keaton and, I don't know. Claim a family emergency. Tell him Victoria will be more than happy to fill in for me. Then, we either get rid of, or seriously hide that money. Where nobody is going to find it. Then... I don't know. I haven't had a chance to think, Chloe. Everything's happened so quickly. I guess, just wait for me to come back? I think it was in the evening that I woke up. Also, be careful! I don't know if other-me will have powers or not. And both Jacob and Nathan aren't just assholes. They're one step away from going full psycho!"
Chloe's lips parted, her eyes full of worry. "Okay. Bail on the play, hide the stash. Old school pirate style. We can do this, Max. I promise: when you get back, I'll be here."
Max tried to stifle a sob, but it broke through anyway. She flung herself once again against Chloe, her arms wrapping around her frame tightly. "You'd fucking better, Chloe."
Max didn't hear Chloe's reply. For a second time, the world began to shimmer and contort, her consciousness slipping away into a swirl of white.
The junkyard? Again?
A burst of raw panic flirted through Max's body upon recognition of her surroundings. Chloe had taken here once or twice, in the past. Apparently it was one of her and Rachel's favorite hangouts. But although the location was the same, the situation was entirely different. Relief replaced panic when Max realized she was standing, not bound to a chair. Her heart leapt when she heard a voice behind her.
"So how much longer do you think it'll be?"
Max spun, slamming herself into Chloe with all her strength.
"Whoa! Ahhh, guess I have my answer?"
Tears falling from her cheek, Max nodded, her head still buried in Chloe's chest.
"Welcome back, Max," Chloe said, after a solid minute had passed. This time, her tone was soft. Relief hung from every word. "I can't imagine what hell you've gone through, but I promise, all that shit is over now."
A banging noise from the concrete shack behind them broke Max from spell of Chloe's comforting words. Hands remaining on Chloe, she pulled back a few inches, concerned.
"Right. So, some crazy shit went down while you were on your time trip. Like you guessed, other-you didn't have any powers. So... we had to make due. You know-improvise. You were right about Jacob though. Fucking psycho."
The banging sound increased. Max could swear she heard muffled screams from inside.
"I guess you'd better just see for yourself." Chloe stepped towards the shack, beckoning Max to follow.
Whatever it is, we'll deal with it. Chloe's alive! I... I fixed it. Again.
Max stopped short in the doorway. Chloe stood in the middle of the small space. Beside her, tied to a chair and gagged, was Jacob Landhauser.
Max couldn't resist it. Despite the turmoil and hell of the past day, with all its horror and malice, a smile broke onto her face.
"Chloe, what-how-"
"As I said, Max. Shit got weird. Hella weird. This fucker actually followed us! Like he was a secret agent or some shit. Too bad he sucks at stealth-I had his ass pegged from the moment we left home."
"He was still after us? What happened with Vanessa?"
Chloe began to pace the room, clearly enjoying her opportunity to be the one "in the know."
"Oh, she showed up alright. And got her sorry as booted off the doorstep. Joyce didn't even get a chance to know she was there. We let her know she wasn't welcome."
Max considered Chloe's words. "So I skipped school today?"
"As if I was going to let you out of my sight for one goddamn minute," Chloe snapped. "I mean, yeah. You tried. But I pulled executive girlfriend privileges."
Max blushed a little, raising one arm to her side. She took a moment to comprehend the scene a little more. Jacob, unsurprisingly, appeared agitated and angry. He continually swore and screamed into the cloth tied into his mouth, and struggled relentlessly against his bindings. The money suitcase lay resting by the small couch. Max raised an eyebrow when she saw it.
Noticing where Max was looking, Chloe explained. "We figured the junkyard would be a suitable booty cove to hide our treasure in. You wouldn't let me draw a map though. But then this," Chloe paused to give Jacob a swift kick, "little shit followed us straight from our house. The fucker was literally parked just down the street."
"Not to complain, or anything, Chloe," Max started, "but I was kinda hoping we would hide the money ASAP. I mean, I bet Jacob tailed us because we gave Vanessa the boot."
Chloe raised a hand to her chin in mock consideration. "Yeah, I know. But I had a lot of time to think about what you said, Max, and I guess I figured there's no way I was going to let that banshee step foot in our house. And with that being the case, didn't seem necessary to immediately find a new place to hide the money. Plus, it was already dark when you came back to warn me, so I figured we'd wait until the next day. Really, hiding the stash seemed an after thought. Was only doing it 'cause you were so insistent, and I promised. But hey, look what it got us! One trussed up Jacob."
Jacob fought ever more violently, but Chloe had apparently shown little kindness in the knots she used. Jacob remained in place.
"Right," Max agreed. "And how exactly did this happen?"
"Promise you won't get mad?" Chloe hunched forward, both hands pressed firmly together in a pious gesture. Max rolled her eyes, but giggled all the same.
With a smirk, Chloe continued. "I bought a gun a while ago, when we first got back to the Bay. When I noticed Jacob following us, I pulled it out of the truck after we parked. Was just a simple matter of marching ahead of him, and then pullin' the old stick 'em up routine. Wish you could remember it, it was awesome. Dude's eyes almost popped out, loony tunes style. "
Jeez, Chloe. I mean, yeah, I would've been mad. But you could've told me you bought a gun. Still... I'm glad she did. A this point, well, whatever it takes. Speaking of which... what are we going to do with Jacob?
Max returned her attention to the boy in the chair. He had ceased his futile struggling, seemingly resigned to listen to the girl's conversation. Max felt torn. Over the past few hours, she had seen Jacob and Nathan murder Chloe twice. They kidnapped her. And she would've been dead, if Chloe didn't bring that photograph. She had every reason to hate Jacob. Every reason to want him dead.
Can we do it though? Sure, he deserves it. Even if he hasn't done any of those things in this timeline. I suppose that's a pretty gray line of thinking. Punishing someone for what they've done, in an alternate timeline? Plus, the situation is different now. We're the ones in control. When I killed Calvin, it was because he forced my hand. There was no other way. But this feels different. Jacob's no threat to us right now. Killing him wouldn't be self defense. It would be murder. Even though he deserves it, could I live with myself? Could Chloe?
Looking up, she took in Chloe's posture. She was staring at Jacob, her face in a scowl. Clearly she wanted what she saw as justice. Max fidgeted when she realized Chloe probably would kill Jacob, if asked. The thought made Max suddenly uncomfortable.
Damnit. We can't... we can't just outright murder him. Even though he'd do the same to us, if given the opportunity. But. We can put the fear of god into him. It's time Jacob understands fucking with us is not a good idea.
"Chloe," Max asked. "Can we talk outside?"
Chloe nodded. They both left the shack, leaving Jacob rocking the chair, and cursing into his gag. Once they were both out of earshot, Max explained her plan. Chloe frowned, clearly unhappy with aspects of it. But ultimately, she agreed to go along with it. Max breathed a sigh of relief.
"Let's make a savepoint though," Max remembered. Chloe nodded, grabbing the Polaroid camera from her truck, and took a quick picture. Settled on their course of action, they both returned to the shack.
Chloe stepped up to Jacob, grinning, and moved to undo the cloth around Jacob's mouth. Jacob spat, cursed, and growled. He slowly lifted his head to look at Max, who remained situated in the doorway. His eyes burned with anger.
"Let me tell you what's going to happen, Jacob," Max started, her voice more calm than she expected.
Jeez, maybe all that practice for the play paid off.
Jacob scoffed in response, but otherwise remained silent.
"We're going to let you go," Max explained. "You will drop out of Blackwell, and return to Seattle. Today."
Jacob shifted, looking somewhat nervous. Despite his body language, he laughed. "We both know I can't just do that. Dad would fucking disown me."
"Sounds like a personal problem," Max answered. "One you'll have to dealt with. But, it's important you understand something."
Jacob rolled his eyes. "I'm all ears."
Alright. Chloe doesn't like this, but I think it'll work. Besides... we have the photo. I can always reset.
Max strolled up to Jacob, and leaned forward to whisper into his ear. She pressed the gun she took from Chloe just earlier against his temple, earning a surprised whimper from Jacob. But before saying a word, she activated her power, rewinding the past few seconds.
Exiting the rewind, she wasted no time. "I know where you sleep," she emphasized. If not for his restraints, Jacob would've left the chair, possibly hitting his head on the ceiling. "Remember, Jacob. We can find you, anywhere, any time."
Max took a few steps back to the shack's entrance, and rewound another few seconds. Jacob's face went white. A small pool of liquid began to form at the base of his shoes.
"Dude," Chloe exclaimed, while walking backwards, and holding her nose shut with one hand. "That reeks."
"Cut him lose, Chloe," Max ordered. With a shrug, Chloe flipped open a switchblade and released Jacob. The boy immediately sprung from the seat, but apparently over judged his ability to walk, and fell forward, catching himself with the palms of his hands. Chloe burst into laughter, pointing at a dark smear on the back of his pants.
"Max, you"-Chloe paused to stifle a fit of laughter-"literally scared the shit out of him."
Max stepped aside, suddenly wanting to keep some distance between her and the source of the smell. She scrunched her nose at the odor. Embarrassed and belittled, Jacob rose to his feet, barreling his way out the door, muttering and cursing something about "witches" and "demons."
"And if you come back, we'll make you walk the plank, ye scallywag," Chloe yelled. Despite themselves, both Max and Chloe burst into a fit of laughter.
Wiping a tear from her eye, Chloe said, "Let's bail, Max. Smells like a overused honeybucket in here."
The sound of Jacob's car starting, and screeching away, gave them both a sense of satisfaction.
"No arguments Chloe. I-" Max stumbled forward, and Chloe rushed to catch her before she hit the ground. Reaching up with a hand, Max found a dribble of blood coming from her nose. Faintly, she heard Chloe calling her name, but the world surrendered to black.
"Max? Max? You there?"
It took a few moments to recognize the surroundings. Her room. Her and Chloe's room. A wave of relief rushed over her. She was lying on her bed. She immediately recognized Chloe's presence beside her. No, around her. She felt Chloe run a hand over her forehead, and through her hair. Reflexively, Max snuggled closer.
"Mmmm," Max muttered in response.
"Jesus dude, it's been hours. I've been hella worried."
Max realized she was still incredibly woozy. The urge to just fall back asleep was incredible, but she wanted to offer Chloe some reassurance.
"I think," Max mumbled, shifting slightly in Chloe's embrace, "I just overdid it, Chloe. Again."
"Guess we should probably put a spending cap on the time travel from here on out."
Max nodded lazily in agreement. She breathed a slow breath in and out, keeping her eyes shut. After the horror of the past day, being in her room, her bed, with Chloe, was heaven itself. Downstairs, she heard the quiet thuds of people milling about.
David must be home. Probably talking over the day with Joyce. God. Is... is it really over? Wait. How long was I out for?
Suddenly concerned, Max shifted around to face Chloe directly. "How-how long was I out?"
"Only a few hours, super Max," Chloe answered with a smile, running a hand through Max's hair. "Don't sweat it. After the hell you want through, you hella need a break. Just go back to sleep," Chloe's grin turned more sheepish, and she leaned in closer, her mouth scant inches from Max's face. "I like to watch you sleep," she said with her best creepy voice.
Max giggled, twisting about when Chloe began to tickle her. After a minute they settled down, and Max snuggled in, suddenly wanting sleep again more than all else. But doubtful thoughts lingered.
"Chloe," she whispered, face still half buried in the pillow. "Do you really think it's over? Did I do the right thing, showing Jacob what I can do?"
"I don't have any answers, Max," Chloe answered, wistfully. "But I believe in you. You got the power, girl."
"I think, from here on out, I should reserve my power. Especially now, we don't know how long it'll last. Or if those visions will come back."
"Right there with you, Max0rs," Chloe muttered, squeezing them two of them together. "Let's just live life. Powers for emergencies only."
Max smiled, shuffling in close to Chloe's warmth. The draw of sleep pulled heavily at her eyelids, and for the first time in what felt like forever, she drifted off to a peaceful sleep.
At last, the school bell rang, releasing the class room's occupants from the remnants of the teacher's ongoing lecture.
"Alright, alright," Ms Grant declared as students shuffled their bags, "remember that the assignment is due tomorrow. No excuses!"
A soft murmur filtered through the room. Max rose slowly, both eager and hesitant. Jacob hadn't attended class, which was an excellent sign. But she needed to know more. Confirm that he was gone. Victoria, on the other side of the classroom, remained seated, glued to her phone's screen. Max decided to pay her a visit.
"Victoria," Max began. She decided on flattery. "Thanks for filling in on the play yesterday. You were a godsend."
Max's words tore Victoria's attention from her phone. It took a moment to digest them, and she looked confused, slightly angry, then almost petulant. "I-yes. Thanks Max. With truly talented artists on stage, everything went to plan. So glad you could see reason."
"I was wondering," Max continued, "if you'd seen Jacob today? Had a question for him."
It was Victoria's turn to look disturbed. "I... I haven't seen him. It's weird. We were supposed to meet today... but... according to Nathan, he's just..." Victoria trailed off, not finishing her sentence. Collecting herself, she looked up sharply at Max. "What do you even care?"
Max raised both hands in mock defense. "I don't. Was just wondering something, no big."
Victoria's expression furrowed, but in moments she returned attention to the phone.
Awesome. So he's gone? For good?
"What the fuck did you two dykes do?" Nathan accused, striding into the classroom, as if he owned the place. "I don't know what the fuck happened, but Jacob just took off last night. His room is fucking empty. Is this your fault, Victoria?"
"Fuck you, Nathan," Victoria countered. "I'm as in shock as you are. You wanna blame somebody, why not Maxine? Ugly fox probably threatened him or something."
Nathan turned his eyes to Max, who had to suppress a nervous shiver. A flashback of Nathan holding a gun, pointing it at Chloe, and pulling the trigger, fluttered through her mind.
"He's your guy's friend, not mine. Don't project."
Nathan huffed, stamping about uncertainly. "All I know is one day he's on about finally getting some serious closure about some dumbass legal case, and then he's a fucking ghost. There's bullshit here, I can smell it. And one of you two fuckers are behind it."
Max raised her hands in a empty gesture. Nathan scoffed again. "This isn't over, bitch," he swore as he turned heel, and left the room.
"T-thanks, Max," Victoria muttered, obviously a bit perturbed by Nathan's sudden outburst. "Nathan's... well. He's a bit hot headed for my tastes."
"You and me both, Victoria," Max replied.
"Don't think just because you chickened out on the play, and gave me the part, like you should've done from the beginning, that we're friends now, Max."
Max rolled her eyes.
Of course. Heaven forbid we not be enemies.
"Wouldn't dream of it, Victoria," Max answered while shouldering her bag. She gave Victoria, and the room, a final look before heading out. It was her last class of the day, and it was time to go meet Chloe.
So Jacob's gone, Nathan's wings are clipped, and Victoria isn't being an absolute bitch. And I made it all the way through that conversation without using my powers!
So it worked? Landfucker is gone?"
Chloe paused to take another small bite from her ice cream cone. Max had gone immediately from Blackwell to downtown Arcadia Bay, to meet Chloe at one of the town's few ice cream parlors. Chloe got her usual-mint pistachio. Max opted for chocolate orange. It was early afternoon, and they sat at one of the provided tables that dotted the sidewalk.
"I think so, Chloe," Max nodded, giving her own cone a lick. "Nathan and Victoria were completely in the dark. I think we really put the fear of god into Jacob."
"Honestly thought that shitting your pants was just an expression. I just hope he doesn't do anything stupid."
Max shrugged. "Even if he does tell people what he saw, who's going to believe him?"
"Touché," Chloe replied, before stopping to rub her temple. "Ugh, sorry. Brain freeze."
Max giggled. "Slow down, seriously. This isn't a race."
"Says you," Chloe grinned, giving Max a mock punch in the arm. "I-the hell?"
Max turned in her chair to see what caught Chloe's attention. He stomach somersaulted. A police cruiser had pulled up to the curb, its tinted windows hiding the identity of the officer inside. When the door opened, a tall man, who looked to be in his mid-thirties, stepped out, and took a moment to stretch. His tag read Officer O'Conner.
"Oh, god," Chloe sighed, her expression becoming deadpan.
"Well hello to you too, Chloe," O'Conner replied. "And your lovely friend. Fine day, isn't it?"
Chloe leaned back in her chair, eyes furrowed. "What do you want, Neil?"
"No need to get testy, Chloe. We at the station are all thrilled that you seem to be getting your life together. And no, before you ask, you're not in any trouble."
O'Conner's reassurances did little to curb Max's sense of growing anxiety.
Sure, uh huh. Getting some serious deja vu from this situation...
"Then, if you don't mind," Chloe started, "I'd like to get back to my date? As in, please fuck off?"
O'Conner frowned, putting both arms on his hips. Max couldn't help but notice the holstered sidearm beside his right hand. "Listen, something's come up. I'd like to do this the easy way, so check that attitude, Chloe." Chloe huffed in response, taking another bite from her cone. Max, on the other hand, had almost lost her appetite.
If he asks us to get in that car, I swear. I will lose my shit.
"Why don't you two girls grab your things, and hop into the backseat? There's a few things we need to discuss down at the station."
Chloe crossed her legs, remaining seated, turning to face O'Conner directly. "We under arrest, pig?"
O'Conner bristled at the insult. His hand moved to rest atop his weapon."Not yet. Don't push me, Chloe."
Screw that. I'm done reacting all this bullshit. Time to get to the bottom of this.
Max gave Chloe a kick from under the table to grab her attention. Chloe shot Max an inquisitive glance. "Gonna control-Z this."
A wide grin formed over Chloe's face, and her head cocked at the formulation of an idea.
Oh god, what's she going to do this time?
"Sure, officer, don't get your panties in a knot," Chloe relented while rising from her chair. In a fast move, she planted her remaining ice cream cone into O'Conner's face.
"Fuck! That tears it, Chloe," O'Conner shouted, while wiping his face, which had become contorted with anger. Unphased, Chloe took a step back to admire her work.
"You realize you just assaulted an officer? I was going to do this the hospitable way, but now-"
Max raised her hand, undoing the events of the past few minutes. She waited patiently, as the cone flung back into Chloe's hand, as O'Conner returned to his vehicle, and drove backwards, and around the corner. Finally, she exited the rewind.
"Dude," Chloe asked. "Did you just use your powers? Could've sworn you just flickered."
"Chloe," Max said while rising to her feet. "We have to go. Now."
Chloe's playful expression morphed into her serious game face, and she followed Max's orders without hesitation. Max grabbed Chloe's hand and pulled them both away from the store, heading down the sidewalk. To their right, she spotted an alley, and she pulled them both down it.
"The hell is going on, Max?"
"Cops," Max answered, after they were completely out of sight from the street. "Trying to get us to go for another ride."
"Fuck that."
"It's time to stop reacting, Chloe. Let's figure out what's going on."
"One hundred percent behind you, girl. What's the play?"
Max glanced up at the darkened sky, fidgeting a bit. Anything to keep her nerves at bay. Even with her power, breaking and entering always put her ill at ease.
"Supergirl. Chin up. You're an ultra stealth ninja, remember?"
Max smiled, letting Chloe's confidence boost her own. They both stood across the street from the Arcadia Bay police department. It was close to midnight, and the town around then was completely dead, aside from the occasional passing car. The station itself was completely dark.
Thank god for small towns, and even smaller police budgets . Now. Chloe's right. It's time to get to the bottom of this.
They were both garbed in fully black outfits, complete with hoods to mask their face. Chloe had insisted they prepare thoroughly for the evening's escapades.
"You got the key ready?" Max asked.
Chloe grinned, holding up a masonry brick she had acquired earlier from the junk yard. "One skeleton key, at your service."
"I'll let you do the honors."
Together, they crossed the street. They had picked picked out an ideal spot that afternoon. The station had two large windows facing its south side, by its entrance. When they both came to a stop before them, Chloe performed some mock calisthenics, warming up her arm like she was a baseball pitcher.
"Just throw the damn brick, Chloe," Max giggled.
"You can't rush art, Max. You of all people should know that." Max gave Chloe a soft shove, earning another petulant remark. "Alright, alright. Here goes!"
Brick in one hand, Chloe whirled around twice, in a full circle, before letting the missile lose at the window. Her efforts were rewarded with a shocking burst of shattered glass. Which was followed immediately by an excruciatingly loud alarm. Max instinctively covered her ears. Chloe, on the other hand, hoped up to the make-shift entrance, leaning down and forming a cup with her hands.
"My lady," Chloe offered, as Max placed a foot into Chloe's palms. A second later, and Chloe hoisted Max through the elevated window. Max ungraciously tumbled into the building, taking care to avoid any shards of glass. Standing up, she turned around to face Chloe, who gave her a fake salute.
"Wish me luck," Max asked.
"Ninjas don't need luck. Especially pirate ninjas, like us. Now go kick some ass."
Max rewound, restoring the window to its original state. She immediately walked up to it, searching for Chloe. She breathed a sigh of relief-Chloe stood safe and sound, back on the other side of the street. Max gave her a wave. Chloe responded with two sold thumbs up, and a head bang.
Turning around, Max began the investigation. The first order of business was gaining computer access. And that would be reliant on finding a password. She banked her hopes on this being a small town, with little concern towards IT security. Chloe had mentioned that, in her IT classes, they said the biggest flaw isn't in software, but rather in the human element. Max rounded the front desk, and started rifling through the mess littered around the keyboard and mouse at the computer. But a sticky note attached to the monitor caught her eye.
You have got to be kidding me.
The sticky note had what looked like a password. Max hit space on the keyboard, waking the computer, which presented her with a lock screen. She typed the password, and was rewarded with a Windows XP desktop.
Wowsers. They seriously need to upgrade their computers. The 2000s were a whole decade ago!
The first application that caught her eye was Outlook. She brought it to focus, and began to pour through the inbox. One message in particular caught her eye. It was addressed from Sean Prescott. She double clicked it, and read the contents.
"My patience with your incompetence has expired. You will comply with my request, or you will seek alternative employment. You will bring Maxine Caulfield and Chloe Price in for questioning, or I will replace you with someone who will. Do not make me ask again."
Jesus. Hold up. Just what's going on here? This has got to be Eric Landhauser leaning on his buddy Sean. But why the sudden escalation? I guess... is it because other-me and Chloe didn't even let Vanessa in the house? And, I guess we also forced Jacob to run home with his tail between his legs. With the pressure of Mr. Amber's lawsuit, maybe Eric is feeling the heat, and is willing to take more drastic steps? What does he hope to accomplish, anyway? It's not as if killing us will get Mr. Amber off his back. But maybe simple revenge is enough, for him?
A thought sprang through her mind. Something that might put a serious damper in Mr. Prescott's influence. She clicked the "Forward" button, and typed in Mr. Amber's email address. In the message body, she wrote:
"My conscience has gotten the better of me. Please read this, and the following emails. I hope they provide the evidence you need to bring light to the corruption that in this department."
And... send! Sorry, "Danica," whoever you are, but you're going to be the sacrificial lamb for this operation.
Max did a search on all emails from Mr. Prescott, and forwarded every one of them to Mr. Amber. They dated back years.
Done! Now. Got to clean my tracks.
There was no doubt security cameras had recorded her every action of the past few minutes. Despite the ninja garb, Max wanted to scrub any evidence of her presence. Chloe had done a little research about security systems, and with that knowledge, Max located the VHS tape onto which the previous few hours had been recorded.
Again, seriously. This place is stuck in the nineties. Would've been a lot harder to erase my deeds if this footage was written to network storage, or something.
Tape in hand, Max approached the window. Chloe remained on the other side of the street, a dark shadow leaning against one of the buildings.
Okay. Time to wait a few minutes, and then have Chloe bust me out.
When the allotted time had passed, Max waved her hands, beckoning Chloe to action. She skipped across the street, and repeated her earlier gymnastics with a shatter. Max stood far back to avoid being bricked, or cut by the glass. Again the alarm blared, and again Chloe helped her down from the window. After a quick hug, Max offered Chloe a smile, a kiss, and rewound.
"Dude! We done already?"
Chloe stood in front of Max, brick in hand, ready to throw.
Max waved the security footage VHS tape triumphantly in her hand. "Mission accomplished. Let's go home, Chloe."
"Mmph," Max moaned. It took a second to realize Chloe was shaking her awake. Opening her eyes, the mattress of their bed came into focus. She rolled onto her back, and was greeted with a jubilant Chloe.
"Dude, get the fuck up! You've gotta see this shit." Chloe pranced back a few steps. She bounced on her toes, clearly unable to wait another moment for Max to rise from bed.
Intrigued, Max pushed herself up into a sitting position. "This better be good, Chloe."
"You have no idea."
I could think of a few things. God, last night really took it out of me. Using me rewind feels... harder. But, at least, those crazy visions seem to be gone.
Chloe practically pulled Max down the stairs by one hand. As they hit the landing, Max was still rubbing her eyes, releasing a giant yawn.
"Max," Joyce called from the living room. "Come see this."
Impatient, Chloe dragged Max down the hallway and into view of the TV. On the couch, both Joyce and David sat watching the TV. It was playing the local news. The headline read "bombshell investigation into corruption of local police department. FBI has confirmed an open investigation."
Holy shit. So quickly? Damn Mr. Amber, you work fast! And getting the FBI involved, wowsers. Maybe Mr. Prescott will finally see some consequences for his actions?
The news report continued. Apparently, multiple officers were under active corruption investigations.
"I always knew something was dirty with that department," David remarked.
Joyce shook her head. "I just can't believe something like this could happen here, in Arcadia."
"Like I've been saying all along," Chloe cut in. "Just burn the whole thing to the ground. Corrupt as shit."
"Chloe! Language!" Joyce scolded. Chloe just rolled her eyes, and moved to the kitchen to find some breakfast.
Wowsers. So, did we just neuter Mr. Prescott, and by extension, Eric? Fuckers. I hope so.
A million images flickered through Max's head. Calvin assaulting her with a taser after admitting he killed Chloe. Calvin killing Chloe in a decrepit barn. Jacob shooting Chloe in the head. Despite herself, Max's blood began to boil.
Eric, Jacob, Nathan, all of them. Even if they spend the rest of their lives in prison, they're getting off easy. They deserve so much worse.
It's not fair, is it? The only people in the world that know what I can do are the love of my life, and my worst enemy. I know Chloe is nervous about this, but if Jacob gets to know, then why not my best friends?
Night had fallen. Both Joyce and David had already left for their planned trip to Portland, leaving the house to Max and Chloe for the night. Joyce had mentioned something about "no wild parties," but didn't say anything about small gatherings.
"Max! Where should I put the snacks?" Warren wondered aloud, his arms full with a variety of bags.
"Just throw them on the coffee table," Max ordered. The night was theirs, and for the first time in what seemed forever, Max felt on airs about the future. Throughout the day she and Chloe had closely followed the rapidly updating news reports.
I guess I should've gone to school. But, screw it. There's no way I would've been able to concentrate. Not after last night, and today's fallout.
"Max, thank you so much for having me over. This is such a beautiful house!" Kate stood by the couch in the living room, both hands clasped in front of her in a simple gesture.
Max replied with a simple hug, motioning for Kate to sit down on the couch.
"Max? You okay?" Kate asked, while taking a seat. "You look so serious all of a sudden."
"Yeah, what's up, Maxwell?" Warren took a seat beside Kate. Chloe grabbed the armchair, while Max remained standing. "You look so grave."
"Guys, promise you won't freak out. But I'm going to show you something kind of crazy. You probably won't believe it. Or just think you're going insane."
Warren and Kate shared a glance. "I figured this was more than just about a movie night," Warren began. "You've been acting strange at school lately, Max. You know you can tell us anything, right?"
"I do know," Max answered. "And that's why I invited you here. Just... don't freak, okay?"
"Don't insult us, Max. Come on, what's this about?
Okay then. Time to do this.
Max walked around the back of the sofa, earning craned necks from Warren and Kate. She put her head directly between theirs, and reversed time.
"Boo!"
Kate screamed, jolting away in surprise. Warren stayed in place, his eyes widening with wonder.
"Holy shit! Max! You... you just... teleported."
"Max?" Kate asked, her voice filled with trepidation. "H-How did you do that?"
Max stood up straight, and walked back around to face her friends directly. After waiting a moment, she rewound again. Upon exiting, she was rewarded with another shocked gasp from the two of them. Chloe, on the other hand, just burst into laughter.
"It's not teleportation, Warren," Max explained. "Tell me... how much do you know about time travel?"
Warren's eyes widened, and his jaw opened, then closed, then opened again. No words came out.
"I hate keeping secrets. So... yeah. I'm a human time machine."
After a long minute, Warren finally spoke. "Are you fucking kidding me? Max, that's... awesome!"
Kate looked more distressed. "I... don't understand, Max. Time travel?"
"Kate," Max addressed, "I don't know. This power... it was given to me. I don't know how, or why. But I have it."
Kate paused, giving Max a thoughtful look. "I'm sure there's a reason, Max. And I can't imagine a person more deserving."
"Both of you are missing the point here!" Warren exclaimed. "Max... this is insane! Completely unprecedented! There's nothing on record like this. We have to-"
Uh oh. Did I just stir the slumbering science beast?
"Easy, dude," Chloe cut in, earning Warren's attention. "This is Max's power. She can do whatever she wants with it. Like hell you're putting her in a lab."
"Of-of course," Warren backed off. "No pressure. But seriously, Max. People always talk about crazy powers, psychic stuff and what not, all the time. But it's not real. Otherwise there'd be tons of documented evidence. Except, shit. That just happened! You... you have powers Max! You're the real deal!"
Max couldn't ward of a small blush at the attention.
Well, I guess this went as well as I could've hoped. At least they're not trying to burn me at the stake, or anything.
"Max, how long have you been able to do this?" Kate asked.
Max chuckled. "Well, it's kind of a long story."
Warren tucked his legs into a cross, settling into the couch. Kate did the same.
"We've got all night, Max," he said.
"Well," Max began. "It all started back in Seattle..."
"Chloe, seriously. We're not in a rush!"
"Calm down, Max. We'll be fine."
Chloe's truck sped down the empty roadway. Desert surrounded them on all sides. They were headed south on the 95, and Chloe seemed to think the speed limit didn't apply.
"I just don't want to deal with any more cops," Max mused, assuming a more comfortable position in her seat.
"We're not going to get pulled over, Max. Besides, if we do, you can just rewind, right?"
"Sure. Because landing on my ass and sitting outside in the desert for you to pick me up is exactly how I want to spend my time."
"Don't be so dramatic. It'd only be a few minutes."
Max gave Chloe a punch, which she fended off by grabbing Max's arm. But instead of letting go, Chloe pulled Max in, forcing Max's head onto her lap. Max started to struggle, but instantly acquiesced when Chloe began running her hand through her hair.
Jeez. I'm such a sucker for the hand-in-hair tactic.
Max purred, enjoying the sensation. She closed her eyes, letting the rhythm of the truck and the warmth of Chloe's lap run through her. Chloe kept stroking her hand through Max's hair, like she was petting a cat.
"You're sure about this, right?" Max mumbled, remaining in her comfortable position.
"About you in my lap? Yeah, pretty cool with it, Max."
"No, dork!" Max rose up, giving her girlfriend a more serious look. "About... this. Going to Vegas, blowing the all the cash."
"Hey! You don't know we'll lose it. Besides, we could fucking own that town, if you'd live up to your power."
Max shook her head. "It'd draw too much attention, Chloe. I... just want to have a good time. And not worry about casinos thinking we're counting cards, or something."
"Like I said, Max. It's your power, your call. I'm just excited to rip this town up! Girl, we got forty grand, and a whole weekend to spend it. This town won't know what hit it."
Max closed her eyes, shuffling in close to lean against Chloe's shoulder. Chloe raised an arm around her in response.
Travel. There's so something romantic about it. Even if the destination if the proverbial city of sin. Still, I can't wait. Chloe's so excited to gamble, and to go to all those shows. Plus, all that alone time in our suite. Don't have to worry about noise! And I'm going to capture all of it with my polaroid. Except maybe that last bit. Hopefully I'll even have something to use for my photography class. And... maybe I'll use my powers. Just a little.
Snuggled close against Chloe, Max opened her eyes, taking in the scenery. The highway stretched off, a straight line into infinity before them. On either side, miles of desert painted the land. As if on instinct, Max grabbed the side of Chloe's face, forcing their eyes to meet. But no words were spoken. Their lips met, heartfelt, and Chloe slammed the petal, sending them screaming forward. Lost in space, and time, Max couldn't bring herself to care.