What Doesn’t Kill You Makes You Stronger novel Chapter 100

Security protocols meant switching cars and drivers at each transfer point. The vehicles were draped in heavy fabric—even the drivers couldn't see who rode inside.

After Calista settled into the car, Ken emerged from the house. "Don't worry, Dad. I'll get these researchers safely to the handover site."

He slid into the driver's seat and eased the car forward.

Calista sat in silence, her thoughts a tangled mess. What a strange way to say goodbye. At the transfer point, Ken opened the compartment, letting the passengers file out. Calista kept her head down, hat pulled low, as she passed him.

Ken's heart clenched. He found himself staring at one particular figure before quickly looking away. His mind must be playing tricks—it couldn't be Calista.

Then a gust of wind snatched the hat from her head.

"Your hat!"

Ken turned at the shout, and his world stopped. It really was Calista. Their eyes met, and the color drained from his face.

"Calista, why are you—"

"She's a satellite researcher," someone laughed. "Where else would she be?"

Understanding crashed over Ken. He sprinted toward her, wild with desperation.

"Calista, don't go!" He reached for her, fingers grasping at empty air. "We grew up together! We promised we'd never be apart. How can you leave me?"