Shadows of Protection

Chapter 60: Shadows of Protection

The soft hum of emergency power filled Zed's home as he activated the backup systems through his Dimensional Simulator panel. The familiar glow of holographic displays flickered to life, casting an ethereal blue light across the room. Zeller's fingers danced across her AR [Augmented Reality] interface, her brow furrowed in concentration as she worked to bring the house's smart systems back online.

"I'll be right back, Mom," Zed said, his hand resting gently on Jadyn's lower back as he guided her towards the door. "Just need to make sure Jadyn gets home safe."

The night air was crisp as they stepped outside, the city's skyline a glittering tapestry of lights against the dark sky. Jadyn's hand found Zed's, squeezing it gently.

"You gonna be okay?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

Zed managed a small smile, though it didn't quite reach his eyes. "Always am, aren't I?"