How far would you go to help an enemy?

Anna and Lev are enjoying a rustic fall hike when a rainstorm forces them into proximity with a testy teenager. When River’s disdain for technology in general and HALEY in particular provokes unexpected violence, Anna is more than ready to banish the troublesome acquaintance from her thoughts. But when the teen’s impetuous temper leaves her gravely injured, neither Anna nor Lev can abandon her to her fate. What will they be willing to risk to rescue the girl who’s wronged them?

A short story, previously published in Seize the World

Coming February 2025