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I’m already forever changed, no longer the person I used to be.
The experiences of the past two weeks made sure of that.
Rhia always encourages me to push my comfort zone. Well, I’m gone well beyond that.
Everything important to me has been taken away from me. I’ve lost the job I loved, my apartment that has been home for the past five years, my Highland bull pet, as well as numerous friends.
And Rhia…
Even though we’ll be able to stay in touch, it won’t be the same as living in the same place. The distance between us will hurt.
A new name, a new identity, a new life… that’s what awaits me now. My stomach turns in protest. But it’s the only way forward.
“Gualtiero will expect me to change my name, and he’s got the best hackers working for him. How long will it be before he’ll figure out my new identity?” I ask.
“If we do a good job, never. But you’re right. He’s not stupid and once you get to America, it will be best to change your identity again. We’ll have more time then and can set everything up with a lot more care. But this will do for now. Even a temporary identity will muddy your tracks and allow you a fresh start.”
I let out a long breath. Right, let’s pick the name for the new me… well, a temporary name anyway.
I stare at the list of names. Rhia has done a fine job. Each one has a note with the meaning and half of them are crossed out already.
Addison, child of Adam… crossed out. Good, I don’t want to be an Addison.
Charlie… could I be a Charlie? Hmmm, the meaning doesn’t grab me. Free man, strong.Well, I am a free man as in mankind, and I better be strong. How can I get through this chapter of my life otherwise?
I cross it out with the pen Ethan has handed me and skip all the crossed-out names. I trust Rhia’s judgment; she wouldn’t steer me wrong.
Drewmeaningwise… yeah, I like that.
Dylan,great tide, the sea…no, that has no relevance to me other than that I’ll be traveling to my new life on an ocean cruiser.
Greer, a watchful, vigilant guardian… I don’t know why, but it speaks to me. I certainly have to be vigilant and watchful from now on, and I am the guardian of my life.Greer, Greer… I repeat in my head. I like it. I have only heard the name once though in a book. It’s unusual and hence could stand out. I’m surprised it’s on this list. No, I need a name that is so common and can be easily forgotten.
Jesse, wealthy or God’s gift,Morgan, traveling or circling the sea,Riley, courageous and brave, andRene, rebornhave all made Rhia’s shortlist.
There’s alsoAsh, happy, andNicky, victory of the people.
I tap the pen against my chin as I think.
Decision time.
If this is indeed a temporary name, I could just pick any of these.
“Okay,” I say to the guys who have been on their computers the entire time. “I’ve made my choice. I’ve picked two names, one for now and one for when I get to America, in case you want to set that up already.”
The guys look at me expectantly.
“Ash Morgan for this sea journey. And Riley James for later.”
James meanshe who supplantsand isn’t that appropriate?
“What about middle names? Do you want us to pick them, or do you have a preference?” Garrett asks.
Oh, I was so focused on first and last names, it didn’t even occur to me to think about those.
“How about Ash Rene Morgan? A happy reborn sea traveler is quite fitting, don’t you think?”
It makes the guys laugh. “And what about Riley James?”
