I didn't leave.
Not right away.
While the Thunderbolts stood outside the compound-arguing, reeling, trying to make sense of me-I stayed behind a tree just past the clearing. Hood up. Back to the bark. Breathing quiet.
I listened.
They always filled the silence like it owed them answers. But tonight... they didn't sound angry. They sounded hurt.
Then I heard him.
"I think... she doesn't want to be found."
Bob.
Damn it.
He was right. And I hated that.
They left eventually, still talking. Still looking over their shoulders like maybe I'd change my mind.
I didn't.
Not yet.
Once their engines disappeared, I stepped out, uncovered the bike, and slid on my helmet. No music this time. Just the road and the ache in my chest I refused to name.
⸻
Back at the bunker, I moved on autopilot-jacket off, boots kicked into the corner, water so hot it nearly scalded.
I didn't cry.
I don't do that anymore.
Later, I sat on the bench with a microwave meal and a half-warm beer, towel still draped over my shoulders, hair dripping down my spine. A knife rested beside the plate. Habit. Just in case.
That's when the computer pinged.
Sharp. Unmistakable.
I stood up fast.
The screen was already awake when I walked in-soft blue glow against metal walls.
Unknown signal pinged
Source: Network Fragment A17X
Encryption Key Matched: Frankie.V
OPEN FILE?
I froze.
No one should have that key.
I didn't send anything.
And I sure as hell didn't leave my encryption trail open.
Whoever did this... they knew who I was.
And they wanted me to know they knew.
YOU ARE READING
Code Name: Untraceable
FanfictionShe's not on the roster. She's not in the system. She's not even supposed to be alive. Every mission the Thunderbolts run, she's there-appearing out of nowhere, tearing through enemies like a storm, then vanishing without a trace. One time? Coincide...
