CARNAL

XXXV

Mijako's slender fingers danced deftly across her laptop's keyboard as she logged into their shared bank account. The large sum of cash that caught her eyes on the screen filled her with a mix of excitement and trepidation. Though they had worked tirelessly to amass this fortune through by stealing from Don, cryptocurrency investments, and clandestine deals with influential figures, Mijako couldn't help but question if their actions had been worth the risk.

Meanwhile, Siraj focused on securing their belongings scattered around the car. Thoughtfully chosen items were methodically organized and stored into durable suitcases, bags, and boxes that filled every available inch of space within their getaway vehicle. Comforts from their homes such as cherished books, photographs, and mementos found a place next to practical essentials like clothing, papers bearing false identities, and an array of gadgets that would aid them in their new lives far away from the US.

The engine hummed softly in the background as the light rain pattered against the car windows, creating a soothing rhythm that masked any sounds of their movements. With delicate care, Mijako tapped away at her computer, initiating wire transfers to various offshore accounts in multiple currencies. She knew how essential it was to disperse their funds among several financial institutions to avoid raising suspicion and keep their wealth secure.

As each wire transfer found success, Siraj's thumbs nimbly tapped over his smartphone's screen, sending encrypted messages to his network of contacts around the globe. He updated them on his progress and sought approval for the initiation of exit plans. He had positioned themselves carefully over time – forging relationships with key individuals who could ensure their escape went smoothly.

Every action had been planned down to the last detail, leaving nothing to chance. Their faces betrayed no emotion, but behind those stoic visages, Mijako and Siraj were acutely aware of the tremendous stakes riding on their swift and discreet departure. There would be no second chances if they were caught; it was either the shackles of justice or the sweet taste of freedom.

The tapping sounds from the keyboard drew to a close as Mijako murmured softly, "All funds transferred, we're clear." Siraj gave a quick nod in her direction before turning his attention back to securing their belongings. In that moment, their eyes locked – two pairs of determined eyes sharing unspoken words of understanding and camaraderie. Their story was not over, but it was time for a new chapter.

With renewed determination and unwavering resolve, Mijako closed her laptop and slid it into a sleek leather case, while Siraj performed one final check on his well-planned packing job. As they fastened seat belts and exchanged tense glances, Mijako switched gears into drive — inching slowly toward the entrance of their secluded rendezvous point.

As they pulled away from the parking lot under the cover of night, their journey to an unknown destination had begun. The road before them stretched on for miles; a testament to the winding path that had led them to this critical juncture in their lives.

Without warning, a radiant light shone from within Mijako's chest, casting an unsettling glow across the car's interior. It grew brighter and brighter until it finally took shape before her eyes. A figure emerged from her chest; it was Aphrodite, stepping forth with elegant grace and a seductive smile that hinted at mischief.

Mijako's eyes widened in disbelief at the new display while Aphrodite occupied the passenger seat as though it had always been hers. Aphrodite glanced beside her at Siraj who had been sitting quietly.

Siraj gawked at this beautiful apparition before him, utterly dumbstruck. After several seconds of silence, he found his voice. "What was the reason?" he stammered.