Chapter 122: Aspen, Lumen

Monday. Creed of Truth Sanctuary, Brazil.

NORMALLY ASPEN ENJOYED THE afternoon slump right before dinner. The others working in the welcome center would inevitably slink off and she'd pretend not to notice until it was just her. Alone.

It was often pleasant.

She had a computer and unfettered access to the internet. Of course, she had to be careful what sites she went to and how she accessed things deemed inappropriate or off-limits. But there was always a way.

Was now a good time?

She glanced at the roll top drawer behind her. She'd stopped keeping anything she cared about in her room. They weren't allowed to lock their doors and there always seemed to be at least one person who liked to steal from others. Here at least Aspen could lock the drawer. She'd brought Mom's book here to read when Buzz told her to keep it. Now, how did she escape with it?

Rain placed a stack of stapled intake forms on the edge of Aspen's desk. "So, what next?"

"Oh, um, that's it for today."