FIFTY

Juliette wakes before the twins when Winston knocks on the door. Still wearing Kenji’s oversized clothes, Juliette follows Winston through the quiet underground halls because Castle has arranged for Juliette to receive the custom clothing Omega Point made for Juliette.

As Winston leads Juliette along, Winston explains that Juliette should join breakfast, settle into Omega Point’s routine, and begin training to control Juliette’s ability. Winston says fifty-six people at Omega Point have abilities, while the rest are family, children, or allies. When Juliette asks about Winston’s gift, Winston reluctantly reveals that Winston is extremely flexible and can stretch; Juliette challenges Winston’s shame and insists the ability is remarkable, prompting Juliette to notice how much Juliette’s own view of herself is beginning to change.

Winston brings Juliette to the room where Adam and Kenji are waiting. Juliette is relieved and overwhelmed to see Adam standing, healed, and nearly normal after the injuries Adam suffered during their escape. Adam asks Winston and Kenji for a private moment with Juliette, and Winston agrees only after insisting that Juliette try on the custom suit while Winston waits outside.

Alone with Juliette, Adam thanks Juliette for saving Adam’s life. Juliette can only say that Juliette is happy Adam is okay. Adam gives Juliette the purple suit, turns away while Juliette changes, and Juliette discovers that the garment fits perfectly, is lightweight, comfortable, and designed for Juliette’s body.

When Adam turns back to zip the suit, Adam is visibly struck by how Juliette looks. Adam carefully helps with the zipper, compliments Juliette, and draws Juliette into his arms. Juliette jokes that Juliette looks like a gymnast, but Adam tells Juliette that Juliette looks like a superhero, reinforcing Juliette’s emerging sense of power rather than shame.