May 17, 2032
Billy had been kind enough to let them all live together in better quarters in an effort to please Michael and make him trust him. But Michael, of course, knew better than to do that after his recent betrayal (and, because of the bodyguards that followed them around and always kept watch over them). But nonetheless, he enjoyed the company of Elena and Sidra.
Billy had allowed Elena to work with Doctor Zhirkov at the medical ward but he had been stubborn about allowing any ease for Joey. Michael had begged him many times and in the end, the respawner had very reluctantly only him to talk to him under strict surveillance.
Michael sat in front of Joey in an interrogation room outside which everyone was closely watching. Joey looked like he had seen better days. There were bruises and cuts all over his face, his nose seemed to have become crooked, and his eyes were reddened. He looked like he had aged a lot more than before. The white in his hair was a lot more prominent than it used to be.
But there was still spark in those eyes and Michael was glad to see the man hanging on. Michael was not quite sure how to start the conversation.
"How's Elena holding up?" asked Joey full of concern. "I've been worried about her."
"She's fine and well. She's working at the medical ward and seems to be enjoying it – as much as she can, at least."
Joey let out a pleased laugh. "Doing what she loves and does best. Nothing out there can prevent her from helping others in need. Nothing. The girl's tough as nails."
Michael nodded. That she definitely is.
"So what are you here for?" asked Joey. "Did the bastard send you to get some information out of me?"
Michael shook his head. "No, I just came here to check on you. Elena… she was very worried about you so I told Billy to let me see you."
"Well, tell her I'm doing fine. All these injuries you see on my face are nothing I can't handle but," He leaned closer. "Between you and me, don't mention these to her. I don't want her to worry anymore than she already is."
Michael nodded.
"You came back for us," said Joey studying Michael's face. "I did not expect you to do that." "I wasn't going to leave you guys behind."
Joey smiled. "I would not have believed you if you had told me that before. But, now I do. You've got to keep Elena safe. She's the only thing I've got left. Please, protect her and if anything happens to me, guard her with your life. You have got to promise that to me, Michael."
"I will. I promise." I already have.
When Michael got up to leave, Joey stopped him.
He looked Michael in the eye and said. "I thought you were just a boy when I met you first. But it looks like you're starting to finally become a man."
Michael could not help beaming when he left.