“Atlas?” My voice cracked. I raced forward, stumbling over nothing until I was in front of him.

He tried to sidestep me but I grabbed his wrist. “W-what are you doing? Where are you taking out kids? What are these…?” I gestured at the luggage.

“What you are seeing is reality,” He croaked, avoiding my eyes. “I told you, Julia. You are free to return to the life you want. You are free to chase your dreams, but you…” He folded his hands in front of me, a tear rolling down his cheek.

“You’ll have to forgive me for not tagging along.”

I shook my head. “Nonsense! You can’t leave,...