Schizogenesis [chapter 37]

The phone rang. Tina turned to Jackson who nodded his okay, moved beside her and leaned down to listen.

“Hello?”

“Tina, it’s me, Ming. Are Blender and his goons there yet?”

She looked at Jackson. He shook his head no.

“Yeah, they’re here. They said you told us to give that thing to him.”

“I did, but things have changed. I must talk with him.”

“He’s out in the garage, with Dave. That’s where it is.”

“Hold on.” Ming went away for half a minute. Tina wondered if they’d lost their connection, when Ming returned. “Ed and Dora are here. Listen, Tina. We’re all coming over your house. Tell Blender it’s important that he wait for me to explain.”

“You’re coming here?”

“Yes. Tell Blender I changed my mind. Tell him, don’t destroy the machine. It is of extreme importance that he wait for me to explain.”

Tina hesitated, and Jackson indicated with a quick head shake for her to agree to Ming’s demand.

“Okay, Ming. I’ll tell him.”

“We’ll be there soon. Bye.”

Tina hung up the phone and faced Jackson. The agent did not move out her space, instead leaning closer.