Chapter 52

The goggles come down, snug against your cheeks and forehead, and the world turns black. You fumble into the chair, hands finding the controls easily. A few adjustments and the seat stretches out, reclining back, ready for action. You slip your feet into the heavy boots latched to the foot of the chair, ease your hands into the gauntlets, and wiggle your fingers until you’re comfortable. A steady throb already pounds your crotch, a flame of anticipation you savor for a moment before you thumb on the control inside the gauntlet and disappear.

* * * *

Rain.

The soothing sound pounds around you in a steady rhythm. Like a massage, the sound works the tension from your neck, your back, your arms. When you open your eyes you find yourself inside your car again. A tiny voice inside your mind whispers this isn’t real.

You know that. But this is exactly where you want to be.