ManyWriters

My spouse, who had always indulged me, donned a Santa outfit to entertain his female assistant and elicit her laughter.
He deceived my grandmother into consuming a sleeping aid and confined her in an automobile with the heating on. Sadly, she perished from intoxication.
I phoned him repeatedly, but received no response.
Concurrently, the female assistant's online broadcast attracted thousands of viewers who observed as "Santa" lavishly presented her with 1,001 gifts in a public display of adoration.
The following day, he finally sent me a message: [Darling, I apologize, an urgent task arose and I had to leave for a business trip. I can't be with you for Christmas! I've arranged tonight's citywide fireworks display, wishing you and grandmother a joyous Christmas!]
I remained with my grandmother's remains throughout the night, gazing at the brilliant pyrotechnics outside.
At daybreak, I noticed the assistant post a collection of nine images on social media featuring the two of them observing the aurora borealis. The caption read: [You always recall every small desire of mine. I'll cherish you for eternity!]
My emotions turned completely numb. After laying grandmother to rest, I contacted that enigmatic number.
"Miss Natalie, are you certain you've decided to participate in the classified national experiment? If you join, your identity will be erased and you'll be unable to communicate with the outside world for five years," someone stated.
I answered with calm determination, "I confirm my decision to participate!"

Betrayed by Santa, My Husband's Christmas Eve Deception

"From now on, your former identity will be completely wiped out and hidden. Deactivate your mobile device, messaging apps, and all online profiles," the official instructed.


"Got it," I replied. I extracted the SIM card from my phone, broke it in two, and threw it out the vehicle's window.


Forty-eight hours later, I reached a covert national research facility tucked away in the Patagonian wilderness.


"Welcome to the Classified National Experiment. Starting today, you'll be known as 077." This designation became more than just an identifier; it became my new identity.


I spent the first half-day getting acquainted with the surroundings, and the following day, I plunged into the rigorous and challenging research tasks.


The individuals here were direct, their thoughts entirely focused on information and apparatus. Unexpectedly, this straightforwardness appealed to me. For the first time, I experienced a deep sense of connection.


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