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Note: If you plan on adding an ending, the system is very finicky and will probably take you a few tries to get it right.

Each route has variations based on how many points out of 100 you get and some mild influence from dialogue options:

Scheherazade Credits
  • Dream of Roland (11 variations)
    • To obtain the 0-9 ending, you'd have to purposely miss the red obstacle, 'Diplomacy or Empathy', in New Orleans and also only complete the 'Courage or Self Knowledge' obstacle in Turkey, missing all other obstacles.
  • Friendship with Roland (11 variations (3 are presumably impossible to unlock in-game))
  • Dream of Felix (11 variations)
  • Friendship with Felix (11 variations (3 are presumably impossible to unlock in-game))
  • Dream of Nigel (11 variations)
  • Friendship with Nigel (11 variations (3 are presumably impossible to unlock in-game))
  • Dream of Sterling (11 variations)
  • Friendship with Sterling (11 variations (3 are presumably impossible to unlock in-game))
  • Dream of Ahmose (11 variations)
  • Friendship with Ahmose (11 variations (3 are presumably impossible to unlock in-game))
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  • Dream of Family (11 variations)

There is no 'canon' ending for each route. The 100 ending is not necessarily considered the best. The points way to get each ending is based on how many relationship or dream points you have in increments of ten. So, if you have 90-99 points, that ending will be different than if you had 80-89 or 100 points. The 100 point ending has the most drastic differences from the rest as the others are mainly just line changes.

It should be noted that since to start a guys' route you must have 30 relationship points with him, it is believed that there is no possible way to get the 0-9, 10-19, and 20-29 friendship endings for each guy.

The moral decisions Sadie makes can also effect the endings, how much though is uncertain. What we know about moral decisions:

  • Moral choices start effecting the game as soon as the game starts
  • Important moral choices can be dialogue options
  • Important moral choices can be how you beat an obstacle. Sometimes, using a smoke bomb to escape may be better than getting in a fist fight
  • Important moral choices can also be in side capers
  • Important moral choices can occur even when Sadie is alone. This seems obvious but if nobody is around to see Sadie break a priceless window instead of using the door, who is to say she did? Apparently, the game internally watches Sadie and judges her
  • You can see the influence of the moral choices by the gifts Sadie receives for her birthday
  • Moral choices will be more prominent in 1932

Dream of Family[]

Dream of Family Good

Appears for Dream of Family endings 50-59, 60-69, 70-79, 80-89, 90-99, and 100

100

Sadie slips into the driver's seat of the family car and drives out to Evelyn's house upstate. Although there's a lot of construction on the roads that evening, she knows enough of the back roads to bypass most of it, and it's only a short while later that she pulls up to the driveway.

She dashes into the house without even shutting the door, turning on the lights as she goes, and heads straight for the library. Among the old, dusty tomes (she really should come up and dust more often), she finds what she's looking for... the copy of the Iliad she'd seen in the photograph.

She opens it in a hurry and looks at the interior cover, noticing a handwritten dedication: 'To the Keatings, see you nowhere and neverwhen, K.K.'

'Nowhere and neverwhen? Why didn't Mom and Dad have any normal friends?' Sadie sighs. 'All right, Mr. Kneller. It's a start.'

She's tempted to stay overnight and look deeper into the book, but the galling truth is that it would probably be best to get the book safely back home to Evelyn's place.

Grinning, she closes her fingers around the locket on her neck. Then it's just a matter of hopping back in the car, driving home, and - finally - slipping into the apartment without alerting Bigglesworth or Aunt Evelyn.

Of course, that's easier said than done. Though it's well after midnight when Sadie creeps in, Bigglesworth's still tidying up the living room... and he has an envelope for her.

'It came about an hour after you left, miss. Was left on the doorstep... no name, just addressed to you.'

Sadie opens the envelope to find a basic white notecard. It said, 'You beat me to it, Miss Keating. Now let the games begin.'

90-99

Sadie slips into the driver's seat of the family car and drives out to Evelyn's house upstate. Although there's a lot of construction on the roads that evening, she knows enough of the back roads to bypass most of it, and it's only a short while later that she pulls up to the driveway.

She dashes into the house without even shutting the door, turning on the lights as she goes, and heads straight for the library. Among the old, dusty tomes (she really should come up and dust more often), she finds what she's looking for... the copy of the Iliad she'd seen in the photograph.

She opens it in a hurry and looks at the interior cover, noticing a handwritten dedication: 'To the Keatings, see you nowhere and neverwhen, K.K.'

'Nowhere and neverwhen? Why didn't Mom and Dad have any normal friends?' Sadie sighs. 'All right, Mr. Kneller. It's a start.'

She's tempted to stay overnight and look deeper into the book, but the galling truth is that it would probably be best to get the book safely back home to Evelyn's place.

Grinning, she closes her fingers around the locket on her neck.

Then it's just a matter of hopping back in the car, driving home, and - finally - slipping into the apartment without alerting Bigglesworth or Aunt Evelyn.

She throws herself down on her bed, opens the book up and begins to read...

80-89

Sadie slips into the driver's seat of the family car and drives out to Evelyn's house upstate. Although there's a lot of construction on the roads that evening, she knows enough of the back roads to bypass most of it, and it's only a short while later that she pulls up to the driveway.

She dashes into the house without even shutting the door, turning on the lights as she goes, and heads straight for the library. Among the old, dusty tomes (she really should come up and dust more often), she finds what she's looking for... the copy of the Iliad she'd seen in the photograph.

She opens it in a hurry and looks at the interior cover, noticing a handwritten dedication: 'To the Keatings, see you nowhere and neverwhen, K.K.'

She's just about to pore through the book in greater detail when a sound from the front door makes her turn around. As much angry as nervous, she yells out, 'Who's there?'

The noises immediately stop, and when Sadie runs to the door, whoever was there is gone.

Still, it's enough to give her pause. If someone was trying to break in, perhaps this isn't the safest place to do her reading.

Besides, she needs time to go through this properly.

Grinning, she closes her fingers around the locket on her neck; perhaps this'll be the key to finding her parents! Hopping back in the car, she drives home, slipping into the apartment without alerting Bigglesworth or Aunt Evelyn.

She throws herself down on her bed, opens the book up and begins to read...

70-79

Sadie slips into the driver's seat of the family car and drives out to Evelyn's house upstate. Although there's a lot of construction on the roads that evening, she knows enough of the back roads to bypass most of it, and it's only a short while later that she pulls up to the driveway.

She dashes into the house without even shutting the door, turning on the lights as she goes, and heads straight for the library. Among the old, dusty tomes (she really should come up and dust more often), she finds what she's looking for... the copy of the Iliad she'd seen in the photograph.

She's just about to open the book and peruse it when a sound from behind makes her turn around.

In the doorway, outlined in shadow by the light from behind, is a tall and menacing figure.

Snapping the book shut, Sadie yells, 'Whoever you are, you picked a really bad month to break into my house.'

The shadowy figure starts, then makes a dash for the adjacent room, too fast for Sadie to block him. She gives chase, but only gets there in time to see him slip out the window and into the dense underbrush before disappearing.

'Applesauce,' Sadie mutters to herself. Perhaps he knew something about what was going on?

Still, she has the book, at least! Her fingers itch to open the thing right here and now, but she pauses; the intruder could come back, and besides, it might take a while to find what she's looking for. Better to bring the book home where it's safe and go over it in private.

Buzzing with curiosity, she drives home, slipping into the apartment without alerting Bigglesworth or Aunt Evelyn. It seems things have taken another twist, and she has some late-night reading to do...

60-69

Sadie slips into the driver's seat of the family car and drives out to Evelyn's house upstate. Although there's a lot of construction on the roads that evening, she knows enough of the back roads to bypass most of it, and it's only a short while later that she pulls up to the driveway.

Immediately, she notices something's wrong; the door's hanging open and swinging in the wind, and she can hear some fairly violent crashes inside. Without thinking, she dashes into the house without even stopping to turn on the lights.

It's not a bad call.

She reaches the library and cries out in a wordless kind of outrage as she sees a shadowy figure looming over the partially-ransacked bookshelves, pawing over one of the books. Finally, Sadie's furious squawk turns into words. 'Hey, you! Stop right there! I have a brick in my bag and I'm not afraid to use it!'

The shadowy figure starts, drops the book, and makes a dash for the exit, too fast for Sadie to block him. She gives chase, but as soon as he makes it outside, the figure melts into the night and out of sight.

'Applesauce,' Sadie mutters to herself, but she returns inside to see what he dropped. Sure enough, he'd had the copy of the Iliad she was looking for... lucky she got there when she did!

Her fingers itch to open the book right here and now, but she pauses; the intruder could come back, and besides, it might take a while to find what she's looking for. Better to bring the book home where it was safe and go over it in private.

Sighing, she places the other books back on the shelf and drives home, slipping into the apartment without alerting Bigglesworth or Aunt Evelyn.

It seems things have taken another twist, and she has some late-night reading to do...

50-59

Sadie slips into the family car and drives out to Evelyn's house upstate, but her progress is frustrated by the fact that almost every worker in the city has decided to do roadwork or construction. She manages to find a few shortcuts, though, and a few hours later, she pulled in the driveway.

Immediately, Sadie notices something's wrong; the door's hanging open, swinging in the wind, and she can hear some fairly violent crashes inside.

Without thinking, she dashes into the house without even stopping to turn on the lights.

It's not a bad call.

She reaches the library, and cries out in a wordless kind of outrage as she sees a shadowy figure looming over the partially-ransacked bookshelves, pawing over one of the books. Finally, Sadie's furious squawk turns into words. 'Hey, you! Stop right there! I have a brick in my bag and I'm not afraid to use it!'

The shadowy figure starts, then makes a dash for the exit, too fast for Sadie to block him. She gives chase, but as soon as he makes it outside, the figure melts into the night and out of sight.

'Applesauce,' Sadie mutters to herself, heading back inside to confirm what she already suspects.

Sure enough, the one book he escaped with was the one she needs, the copy of the Iliad.

Still, it seems like she interrupted him in the process of a more thorough pillaging, as if he'd tried to grab more books... Maybe there are clues in the other books as well?

It's worth a look, but it would take a long time to go through everything, and she has to get back soon before Aunt Evelyn worries about her or calls Anna or something.

Sighing, she places everything back on the shelves and calls the groundskeeper to make sure the house stays watched over. It seems things have taken another twist, and she has some thinking to do...

Dream of Family Bad

Appears for Dream of Family endings 0-9, 10-19, 20-29, 30-39, and 40-49

40-49

Sadie slips into the family car and drives out to Evelyn's house upstate, but her progress is frustrated by the fact that almost every worker in the city has decided to do roadwork or construction. She manages to find a few shortcuts, though, and a few hours later, she pulls in the driveway.

Immediately, Sadie notices something's wrong; the door's hanging open, swinging in the wind, and she can hear some fairly violent crashes inside. Without thinking, she dashes into the house without even stopping to turn on the lights.

Then she reaches the library and cries out in anguish; the bookshelves have been partially ransacked, and tomes lie all over the floor. A quick glance confirms her suspicions; the book she wants - the copy of the Iliad - is gone.

Before she can process the discovery, however, a slight shadowy flutter to the side makes her whirl around with a forceful 'Who's there?'

From the darkness, a large, stocky figure makes a break for the door. Yelling in anger, Sadie chases the intruder outside, determined to stop the thief and get her book back... but the mysterious figure melts into the nearby underbrush and is gone.

Swearing a few things no polite lady should say out loud, Sadie returns to the house to set the other books back in order. Whatever the thief wanted, he disappeared and took with him whatever chance Sadie had of finding out the truth behind her parents, the puzzle they'd left, and the photograph.

She drives home fuming and storms back into the apartment, ignoring Bigglesworth and Aunt Evelyn and throwing herself on her bed in a funk.

Still, whatever it takes, she's going to get to the bottom of this somehow!

30-39

Sadie slips into the family car and drives out to Evelyn's house upstate, but her progress is frustrated by the fact that almost every worker in the city has decided to do roadwork or construction. She manages to find a few shortcuts, but it still takes a few hours to get there, and the sky's dark by the time she pulls in the driveway.

Immediately, Sadie notices something's wrong; the door's hanging open, and a shadowy figure's slipping out of the house.

Yelling, she jumps out of the car to give chase, but the figure disappears into the nearby woods and out of sight. Sadie runs inside quickly, worried about what he might have stolen; she doesn't even stop to turn on the lights.

Reaching the library, she cries out in anguish as she finds the bookshelves ransacked, tomes lying all over the floor where they'd been thrown. Whoever had been there had been in a hurry, even before hearing the sound of her car.

She stumbles around the library and begins picking up her parents' books and placing them back on the shelves, with as much care as her shaking hands can manage. It's only after she finishes that she realizes the book she sought - the copy of the Iliad - is gone.

She can't help yelling out a very rude word; she'd been so close!

Frustrated, she manages to drive home without destroying the car, any pedestrians, or any major landmarks.

She parks in the garage, takes the elevator up to home, ignores Bigglesworth and Aunt Evelyn, and goes straight to her room, throwing herself on her bed and yelling angry invectives into her pillow.

20-29

Sadie slips into the family car and drives out to Evelyn's house upstate, but her progress is frustrated by the fact that almost every worker in the city has decided to do roadwork or construction. She manages to find a few shortcuts, but it takes hours to get there, and the sky's dark by the time she pulls in the driveway.

Immediately, Sadie notices something's wrong; the door's open and hanging in the wind.

Tensing up, she runs inside without a second thought about... she doesn't even stop to turn on the lights.

Reaching the library, she cries out in anguish as she finds the bookshelves ransacked, tomes lying all over the floor where they'd been thrown. Whoever had been there had been in a hurry.

Desperately, she looks around to see if the culprit's still around the house - he's not.

She stumbles back to the library and begins picking up her parents' books and placing them back on the shelves, with as much care as her shaking hands can manage. It's only after she finishes that she realizes the book she sought - the copy of the Iliad - is gone.

With tears in her eyes, she manages to drive home... slowly.

She parks the car, ignores Bigglesworth and Aunt Evelyn, and goes straight to her room, throwing herself on her bed and curling up to cry.

10-19

Sadie slips into the family car and drives out to Evelyn's house upstate, but her progress is frustrated by the fact that almost every worker in the city has decided to do roadwork or construction. It takes hours to get there, and the sky's dark by the time she pulls in the driveway.

Immediately, Sadie sees that something's wrong; the door's open and hanging in the wind.

Tensing up, she runs inside without a second thought... she doesn't even stop to turn on one of the lights.

Reaching the library, she cries out in anguish as she finds that every book of the collection is gone. Someone removed every volume... but left all the other valuables in the house!

Whatever the thief wanted, he's long gone, and with him whatever chance Sadie had of finding out the truth behind her parents, the puzzle they'd left, and the photograph.

With tears in her eyes, she manages to drive home... slowly.

She parks the car, ignores Bigglesworth and Aunt Evelyn, and goes straight to her room, throwing herself on her bed and curling up to cry.

0-9

Before Sadie could get in the car, Aunt Evelyn came running down the stairs. 'Sadie, wait, please come back in the house. I'm sorry, I didn't mean to be dismissive of you... you don't have to go. Please, come back so we can talk...'

Sadie wavered, the possibility of learning what happened to her parents beckoning her on. And yet... with a heavy sigh, she turned back to Evelyn. The mystery of her parents would have to wait for another day. After all, they weren't the only family she had, and the family right here was important. That book would still be there another day, right?

Dream of Roland[]

Dream of Roland
100
Sadie does as she’s told… she closes her eyes and, sure enough, seconds later Roland’s lips touch hers gently in a soft, lingering kiss.

In that moment, it’s like the rest of the world vanishes, and there’s only her dashing, charming, brave and honorable spy.

‘Oh, Roland…’ she whispers as their lips part.

‘I love you,’ Roland says simply before dipping down again to kiss her.

They kiss again, and again, and again… Sadie can’t get enough.

Between kisses, they murmur sweet nothings to each other, Roland’s reserve melting for once as he whispers promises and praises in her ear. They also speak in quiet tones about the time they spent together, about their feelings and their hopes for the future together.

By the time Sadie returns to the party, escort on arm, her face is pink, and the party’s over… but when Aunt Evelyn notices them both holding hands, they both smile proudly at her, unashamed and hopeful for the future.

Clapping her hands in joy, she says how happy she is. Over and over again.

She soon has them both on the couch, and busies herself with pouring them tea, and chatting about their plans.

They’re just planning a lovely family dinner (plus a certain boyfriend) for the following week when there’s a knock at the door. Moments later, Bigglesworth appears in the living room with a polite frown on his face.

‘Terribly sorry to interrupt, ma’ams and sir, but there seem to be a number of police officers waiting outside for Mr. Smith… and I’m afraid they have an arrest warrant.'

90-99
Sadie does as she’s told… she closes her eyes and, sure enough, seconds later Roland’s lips touch hers gently in a soft, lingering kiss.

In that moment, it’s like the rest of the world vanishes, and there’s only her dashing, charming, brave and honorable spy.

‘Oh, Roland…’ she whispers as their lips part.‘I love you,’ Roland says simply before dipping down again to kiss her.

They kiss again, and again, and again… Sadie can’t get enough.

Between kisses, they murmur sweet nothings to each other, Roland’s reserve melting for once as he whispers promises and praises in her ear. They also speak in quiet tones about the time they spent together, about their feelings and their hopes for the future together.

By the time Sadie returns to the party, escort on arm, her face is pink, and the party’s over… but when Aunt Evelyn notices them both holding hands, they both smile proudly at her, unashamed and hopeful for the future.

Clapping her hands in joy, she says how happy she is... over and over again. It’s late at night before Roland can finally extricate himself from her eager inquiries and compliments and go home to sleep.

For herself, Sadie thinks she might never sleep again… or if she does, it’ll only be with dreams of a perfect moonlight kiss.

80-89
Sadie does as she’s told… she closes her eyes and, sure enough, seconds later Roland’s lips touch hers gently in a soft, lingering kiss.

In that moment, it’s like the rest of the world stopped existing, and there’s only her dashing, charming, honorable spy and her.

‘Oh, Roland…’ she whispers as their lips part.

‘I love you,’ Roland says simply before dipping down again to kiss her.

They kiss again, and again, and again… Sadie can’t get enough.

Between kisses, they speak in quiet tones about the time they spent together, about their feelings and their hopes for the future.

By the time Sadie returns to the party, escort on arm, her face is pink, and the party’s nearly over.

Happily, Aunt Evelyn’s far too polite to pass comment – in public, at least – and busies herself with seeing the guests off while conveniently leaving Roland and Sadie alone in the living room.

And if they seem a little flushed when she returns… well, a lady never comments on such things, does she?

70-79

Sadie does as she's told... she closes her eyes and, sure enough, seconds later Roland's lips touch hers gently in a soft, lingering kiss.

It's such a simple gesture, and yet it makes her heart want to beat right out of her chest.

As they part, her eyelids flutter open. 'Roland... I...'

Roland looms over her, his eyes warm and smoky. 'Have I told you recently, love, how beautiful you look in the moonlight?'

They kiss again, and again, and again... Sadie can't get enough.

Between kisses, they speak in quiet tones about the time they spent together, about their feelings and their hopes for the future.

By the time Sadie returns to the party, escort on arm, her face is pink, and the party's nearly over.

Happily, Aunt Evelyn is far too much the consummate host to say anything, and if someone were to ask her why the couple returned to the party for mere minutes before slipping outside again together, she'd say that everyone needs a bit of fresh air from time to time.

60-69

Sadie does she's told... she closes her eyes and, sure enough, seconds later Roland's lips press against hers in a soft, lingering kiss.

It's such a simple gesture, and yet it's the most thrilling experience she's ever had.

As they part, her eyelids flutter open. 'Roland... I...'

Roland looms over her, his eyes warm and smoky. 'Have I told you recently, love, how beautiful you look in the moonlight?'

'How gentlemanly of you' Sadie breathes.

With a smile, Roland proceeds to demonstrate just how gentlemanly he can be. By the time Sadie returns to the party much later, escort on arm, her face is pink and she looks slightly breathless.

Happily, Aunt Evelyn is far too much the consummate host to say anything, and if someone were to ask her why she spends the rest of the evening seating the two lovebirds together at poker, on the couch, and so on, she'd swear that it's just a happy coincidence.

50-59

Sadie does as she's told... she closes her eyes and, sure enough, seconds later Roland's lips press against hers in a soft, lingering kiss.

As they part, her eyelids flutter open. 'That... that was wonderful. Where did you learn to...'

The corner of Roland's lip twitches a little. 'A gentleman never kisses and tells, my dear Sadie, particularly when one's experiences are in the service of King and country.'

'How gentlemanly of you' Sadie breathes.

With a smile, Roland proceeds to demonstrate just how gentlemanly he can be. By the time Sadie returns to the party, escort on arm, her face is pink and she looks slightly breathless.

Happily, Aunt Evelyn is far too much the consummate host to say anything, and if someone were to ask her why she spends the rest of the evening seating the two lovebirds together at poker, on the couch, and so on, she'd swear that it's just a happy coincidence.

40-49

Sadie does as she's told... she closes her eyes and, sure enough, seconds later Roland's lips press against hers in a soft, lingering kiss.

As they part, her eyelids flutter open. 'That... that was wonderful. Where did you learn to...’

The corner of Roland's lip twitches a little. 'A gentleman never kisses and tells, my dear Sadie, particularly when one's experiences are in the service of King and country.'

'Well, experience is all well and good... as long as I'm the one to profit off of them,' Sadie says with a smile.

Reaching up, she pulls Roland down for another kiss, holding it until they break apart, breathless and laughing.

Helping her up and taking her hand in his, Roland escorts her back into Evelyn's party, where they spend the evening playing cards, chatting about their travels, and charming the other guests.

And if anyone - particularly Aunt Evelyn - finds it unusual that they sneak out onto the balcony for lengthy periods of time, they're too polite to comment.

30-39

Sadie does as she's told... she closes her eyes and, sure enough, seconds later Roland's lips press against hers in a gentle kiss.

As they part, she blushes. 'Wow, that was, uh...

The corner of Roland's lip twitches a little. 'I would do it again, but I'm afraid I just used up my week's allotment of daring, reckless, and courageous gestures.

‘Well, I guess I'm going to have to dip into mine, then,' Sadie says with a smile.

Reaching up, she pulls Roland down for another kiss, holding it until they break apart, breathless and laughing.

Helping her up and taking her hand in his, Roland escorts her back into Evelyn's party, where they spend the evening playing cards, chatting about their travels, and charming the other guests.

And if anyone - particularly Aunt Evelyn - notices them holding hands the whole time, they're too polite to say anything.

20-29

Sadie does as she's told... she closes her eyes and, sure enough, seconds later Roland's lips press against hers in a gentle kiss.

As they part, she blushes. 'Wow, that was, uh...'

The corner of Roland's lip twitches a little. 'I would do it again, but I'm afraid I just used up my week's allotment of daring, reckless, and courageous gestures.'

'Week's allotment, huh? You mean I have to wait another week before I get a kiss like that again?' Sadie jokes.

Laughing, he raises her from the dip and takes her hand in his. He escorts her back into Evelyn's party, where they spend the evening playing cards, chatting about their travels, and occasionally holding each other's hands when they think no one's looking.

If Aunt Evelyn's eyes sparkle a bit more brightly than normal as she sees them together, they certainly don't notice.

10-19

Sadie does as she's told... she closes her eyes and, sure enough, seconds later Roland's lips press against hers in a gentle kiss.

As they part, she blushes. 'Wow, that was, uh...

The corner of Roland's lip twitch a little. 'I would do it again, but I'm afraid I just used up my month's allotment of daring, reckless, and courageous gestures.

Sadie laughs. 'Fair enough. Better let me up before you get a crick in your back or something!'

He obliges, and, taking her hand in his, escorts her back into Evelyn's party, where they spend the evening playing cards, chatting about their travels, and occasionally exchanging awkward but warm gazes when they think no one is looking.

0-9

As Roland dips Sadie low, however, he loses his grip on her and drops her on the ground with a thud.

'OW!' Sadie yelled, rubbing the back of her head. 'Was that really necessary?'

'I suppose the mood is rather killed, now?' Roland asked glumly.

'Deader than dead, I'm afraid. Come on, help me up... I just hope nothing's broken,' Sadie groaned. Limping, she went back inside, Roland following morosely behind.

Friendship with Roland[]

Friendship with Roland
100

Unwilling to return to the party, Sadie suggests they go to one of her favorite nearby cafes and have a cup of tea together.

It's a little nerve-wracking - after all, don't the Brits have the ultimate high standards for tea? - but as he sips, she works up the courage to ask, 'How is it?'

Roland smiles. 'It's delicious, my dear, but I admit... I'm probably biased by the truly excellent company I'm enjoying. Tea is only as good as the people you drink it with.' He clears his throat a bit. 'It may sound a little maudlin and sentimental, but... meeting you and becoming your friend is the best thing that's happened to me in a long, long time.'

'I feel the same way,' Sadie says, raising her cup in toast.

The two of them spend several hours talking openly about all the experiences they had over the past year, the good and the bad, and their hopes and dreams for the future... and what adventures they'll have together.

As the cafe closes up for the evening, Sadie asks Roland to come back with her to Aunt Evelyn's party, and he eagerly agrees.

He's an instant hit at the party, playing a mean hand of poker with Sadie and charming Evelyn and her guests. Even after the others leave, he still remains, chatting and joking with Sadie and Evelyn effortlessly, keeping the two of them laughing until the wee hours of the morn.

In fact, he's just in the middle of a hilarious impersonation of, in his words, 'The Stuffiest Duke of Northumberland I've ever met,' when there's a knock at the door.

Moments later, Bigglesworth appears in the living room with a polite frown on his face. 'Terribly sorry to interrupt, ma'ams and sir, but there seem to be some police officers waiting outside for Mr. Smith... and I'm afraid they have an arrest warrant.

90-99

Unwilling to return to the party, Sadie suggests they go to one of her favorite nearby cafes and have a cup of tea together.

It's a little nerve-wracking - after all, don't the Brits have the ultimate high standards for tea? - but as he sips, she works up the courage to ask, 'How is it?'

Roland smiles. 'It's delicious, my dear, but I admit... I'm probably biased by the truly excellent company I'm enjoying. Tea is only as good as the people you drink it with.' He clears his throat a bit. 'It may sound a little maudlin and sentimental, but... meeting you and becoming your friend is the best thing that's happened to me all year.'

'I feel the same way,' Sadie says, raising her cup in toast.

The two of them spend several hours talking openly about all the experiences they had over the past year, the good and the bad, and their hopes and dreams for the future. As the cafe closes up for the evening, Sadie asks Roland to come back with her to Aunt Evelyn's party, and he eagerly agrees.

He's an instant hit at the party, playing a mean hand of poker with Sadie and charming Evelyn and her guests. Even after the others leave, he still remains, chatting and joking with Sadie and Evelyn effortlessly, keeping the two of them laughing until the wee hours of the morn.

Ignoring the significant glances from her aunt, Sadie sees Roland to the door as he finally heads off on his way, glad to have such a good friend at her side.

80-89

Unwilling to return to the party, Sadie suggests they go to one of her favorite nearby cafes and have a cup of tea together.

It's a little nerve-wracking - after all, don't the Brits have the ultimate high standards for tea? - but as he sips, she works up the courage to ask, 'How is it?'

Roland smiles. 'It's delicious, my dear, but I admit... I'm probably biased by the truly excellent company I'm enjoying. Tea is only as good as the people you drink it with.'

'Here's to that,' Sadie says, raising her cup in toast.

The two of them spend several hours talking openly about all the experiences they'd had over the past year, the good and the bad, and what the future might hold for them.

As the cafe closes up for the evening, Sadie asks Roland to come back with her to Aunt Evelyn's party, and despite still being tired from the trip, he agrees. Luckily, thanks to his stamina and his cup of tea, he's able to last until the end of the party, playing a mean hand of poker with Sadie and charming Evelyn and her guests.

As the partygoers leave, Roland stays a little longer to chat with Sadie and Aunt Evelyn, politely deflecting the occasional blatant hints she made about his 'relationship' with her niece.

Eventually, however, exhaustion catches up with him and he bids them farewell. Sadie takes special care to squeeze Roland's hand, look him in the eye warmly, and promise to meet again soon.

70-79

Unwilling to return to the party, Sadie suggests they go to one of her favorite nearby cafes and have a cup of tea together.

It's a little nerve-wracking - after all, don't the Brits have the ultimate high standards for tea? - but as he sips, she finds the courage to ask, 'How is it?'

Roland smiles. 'My dear Scheherazade, surely you realize it's not the tea you drink but rather who you drink it with?'

'I can't think of anyone I'd rather share a cup of tea with,' Sadie says, raising her cup in toast. The two of them spend several hours talking about all the experiences they shared over the past year, the good and the bad, and what the future might hold for either of them.

As the cafe closes up for the evening, Sadie asks Roland to come back with her to Aunt Evelyn's party, and he agrees, though only for a few hours; he's still tired from the long trip.

Luckily, thanks to his stamina and his cup of tea, he's able to last until the end of the party, playing a mean hand of poker with Sadie and charming Evelyn and her guests.

Sadie enjoys having such a good friend at her side in the crowd, and as the guests all take their leave, she takes special care to squeeze Roland's hand, look in in the eye warmly, and promise to meet again soon.

60-69

Unwilling to return to the party, Sadie suggests they go to one of her favorite nearby cafes and have a cup of tea together.

It's a little nerve-wracking - after all, don't the Brits have the ultimate high standards for tea? - but as he sips, she finds the courage to ask, 'How is it?'

Roland smiles. 'My dear Scheherazade, surely you realize it's not the tea you drink but rather who you drink it with?'

Laughing, Sadie agrees. The two of them spend several hours talking about all the experiences they shared over the past year, the good and the bad, and the things that brought them closer together.

As the cafe closes up for the evening, Sadie asks Roland to come back with her to Aunt Evelyn's party, and he agrees, though only for an hour; he's still tired from the long trip.

Still, he's a welcome addition to the party, both as a source of wit and charm for Evelyn and the guests and as a friendly face for Sadie.

As he takes his leave, she squeezes his hand and promises they'll meet again soon.

50-59

Unwilling to return to the party, Sadie suggests they go to one of her favorite nearby cafes and have a cup of tea together. After all, an Englishman always likes a spot of tea, didn't he?

Unfortunately, as they take their seats and are served their tea, it turns out this particular Englishman also has rather high standards. Still, he manages to hide his grimace and smile at her.

'Very nice, thank you. Like a taste of home.'

'Oh Roland, you're so polite,' Sadie laughs. Changing tacks, she asks about his trip home to Britain and what his superiors said about his success, his friendship with her, and so on.

They spend a pleasant few hours talking about his time in England before Roland gallantly offers to walk Sadie back to her aunt's. She invites him to join the party, but he politely declines, begging exhaustion from the trip.

They part at Evelyn's front door with a friendly handshake and a promise to meet again within the week.

Sadie returns to the card party with a smile, glad to count Roland among her friends.

40-49

Unwilling to return to the party, Sadie suggests they go to one of her favorite nearby cafes and have a cup of tea together. After all, an Englishman always likes a spot of tea, didn't he?

Unfortunately, as they take their seats and are served their tea, it turns out this particular Englishman also has rather high standards. Still, he valiantly tries (and fails) to school his face in a smile.

'Absolutely... lovely. What kind of tea is this?'

'Oh Roland, you're so polite,' Sadie laughs. To distract him from the rapidly cooling cup in front of him, she asks about his trip home to Britain and his plans for the near future.

They spend a pleasant few hours chatting about inconsequential but friendly topics before Roland gallantly offers to walk Sadie back to her aunt's.

She accepts, and they part at Evelyn's front door with a friendly handshake and a promise to meet again within the week.

Sadie returns to the card party with a smile, glad to count Roland among her friends.

30-39

Unwilling to return to the party, Sadie suggests they go to one of her favorite nearby cafes and have a cup of tea together. After all, an Englishman always likes a spot of tea, didn't he?

Unfortunately, as they take their seats and are served their tea, it turns out this particular Englishman also has rather high standards. Still, he valiantly tries (and fails) to restrain himself from screwing up his face in disgust.

'Ugh, I'm sorry, but this is vile. What did these poor unsuspecting tea leaves do to warrant such abuse?'

'Well, you remember the Boston Tea Party. We 'Yanks' aren't willing to brew tea without at least five hundred gallons of sea water,' Sadie jokes.

Roland, eyes twinkling, fires back with a wry quip about American ideas about 'tea parties,' and soon they're engaged in spirited, friendly banter over their respective countries.

After a few hours, Sadie says a warm goodbye and returns to Aunt Evelyn's party, where her aunt - already three sheets to the wind - has barely noticed her absence.

It's probably for the best... Sadie needs some time to come up with more witty one-liners for her next encounter with Roland.

20-29

Unwilling to return to the party, Sadie suggests they go to one of her favorite nearby cafes and have a cup of tea together. After all, an Englishman always liked a spot of tea, doesn't he?

Unfortunately, as they take their seats and are served their tea, it turns out this particular Englishman also has rather high standards. Still, he valiantly tries (and fails) to restrain himself from screwing up his face in disgust.

'Ugh, I'm sorry, but this is vile. It's like someone gathered cigarette butts in an old sock and dumped it in tepid brine. Good God.'

'Well, I'm sorry that our backwater colony tea isn't up to your exacting standards,' Sadie fires back, taking a big sip of her own tea (which, yes, does have a hint of old sock to it).

Roland retorts with a wry quip about Yanks and their lackluster tea-brewing abilities. Soon they're engaged in spirited banter over their respective countries, ending at last with an 'agreement to disagree' and friendly farewells on both sides.

Sadie returns to Aunt Evelyn's party, where her aunt - already three sheets to the wind - has barely noticed her absence.

10-19

Unwilling to return to the party, Sadie suggests they go to one of her favorite nearby cafes and have a cup of tea together. After all, an Englishman always liked a spot of tea, doesn't he?

Unfortunately, as they take their seats and are served their tea, it turns out this particular Englishman also has rather high standards. Roland tries and fails to restrain a scrunched up look of disgust as he tastes it.

'Ugh, this is vile. It's like someone gathered cigarette butts in an old sock and dumped it in tepid brine. Why are Yanks so incapable of brewing a decent cup of tea?'

Sadie frowns, a little hurt by his comment, but tries to hide it by sipping her own cup. Roland notices her change in mood, however, and gallantly lightens the mood with a wry quip about his superiors back in England.

Feelings soothed, Sadie spends a pleasant hour chatting before bidding Roland good luck with his work and heading back home to Aunt Evelyn's poker party.

0-9

Unwilling to return to the party, Sadie asked Roland if he'd like to join her for tea at her favorite tea shop around the corner. Roland hesitated, but agreed.

He took a huge sip of the brew placed in front of him, then spat it out in disgust. 'What on earth is this? Are you trying to poison me?'

'The thought has crossed my mind,' Sadie retorted, glaring at him over her teacup.

Dream of Sterling[]

Dream of Sterling
100

As they kiss, Sadie would almost swear she feels the world shine a little brighter. It's so sweet, Sadie can scarcely believe it's real.

Eventually, they come up for air, whispering sweet nothings of love into each others' ears.

Time passes all too quickly, and before they can blink, sunlight's streaming through the window. Sadie makes a move as if to go... but Sterling stops her and holds her close.

'Stay a while longer,' he murmurs, kissing her again. 'Let me go get us breakfast.'

He slips from the room, throwing one last tender glance back at her before shutting the door. Happily, Sadie starts to flip through Sterling's adventure journal.

Here, the picture of them in the office.. there, they ride on an elephant, and there... there!

Confronted with the drawing on the last page, Sadie blinks; she can scarcely believe her eyes. After a few moments, she drops the journal, and bolts out of the room.

Hailing a cab in desperation, she bursts into tears in the back seat, waving off the cabbie's worried questions. She's barely holding herself together as she gets to Aunt Evelyn's front door, slips inside, and shuts herself in her room.

Finally alone, she throws herself on the bed in tears.

How could Sterling do this?!

90-99

They kiss for a long time. Eventually, they come up for air, whispering sweet nothings of love into each others' ears.

They tell each other things they've never told anyone... they speak of the future, of the past, of everything in between. They talk about everything they've shared and are just a bit amazed at how similar their world views really are.

Time passes all too quickly, and before they can blink, sunlight's streaming through the window.

Sadie can barely stand to be away from Sterling, but she doesn't want to worry Aunt Evelyn overmuch. She gives Sterling a kiss, and promises to come back within a few hours.

Then she steals away into the reddening dawn and slips into her bedroom before her aunt or butler have even begun to stir.

80-89

They kiss for a long time. Eventually, they come up for air, whispering sweet nothings of love into each others' ears.

Sterling smiles, and pulls out his journal. He begins sketching her by the scant light of moonlight through the window. Once he's finished, he shows the drawing to her, and she gasps.

She sees herself as he does; strong, beautiful, and softened by the brush of love.

She snuggles up next to him, and they talk for hours about their hopes and dreams for the future.

Sadie stays until dawn, then sneaks out of the room, hoping to make it home before Bigglesworth notices her absence. A little while later, she sneaks in the front door to find the apartment dark, Bigglesworth and Aunt Evelyn still asleep.

Breathing a sigh of relief - and a sigh of longing as well - she glides into her bedroom and turns the lights off.

70-79

They kiss for a long time. Finally, Sadie lets her eyelids flutter open, and she gazes deeply into Sterling's eyes and kisses him again, then again.

'I love you, Sterling,' she whispers between kisses. 'I love you so much.'

Sterling coughs – a raspy sound – and pulls the curtains aside to let a little moonlight in.

He clutches her close, humming a sweet song as they dance. Sadie closes her eyes; she never knew it was possible to be so happy.

Suddenly, a nurse bursts into the room. 'I heard music in here! What are you doing out of bed?'

Sterling laughs, and flings open the window. With one last, passionate kiss, Sadie flees out into the night, hailing a cab and returning to Aunt Evelyn's place.

Everyone's already asleep, and Sadie knows that her aunt will have some questions first thing in the morning... but right now, her heart is dancing too wonderfully for her to care.

60-69

They kiss for several moments.

Sadie lets her eyelids flutter open, and she gazes deeply into Sterling's eyes and kisses him again.

Eventually, she pulls away. 'I'm so happy I'm with you,' she whispers, and the skip in his heartbeat is all the answer she needs.

Sterling pulls the curtains aside to let a little moonlight in. They talk into the night about their friends, their families, their hopes and their dreams. Sadie snuggles up next to Sterling, and he strokes her long, silky hair.

When she starts to fall asleep in the wee hours of the morning, Sterling lets her for a moment, watching her peaceful face.

Then, he shakes her awake and tells her gently that it's time to get home.

Sadie protests for a moment, then realizes how late it is and regretfully pulls away.

Minutes later, she hails a cab and goes straight home to Aunt Evelyn's place, cringing as she realizes everyone else is already asleep.

There'll probably be some stern questions in the morning... but after a night like this, she can deal with them.

50-59

Sadie leans into the kiss. She enjoys simply being with him for a moment... then she pulls away and says, 'I'm so happy to have met you, Sterling.'

Even though she can't see his face, she can feel his sharp intake of breath answer her.

After a charged silence, Sterling pulls a book of matches from his sleeve and relights the candle.

They chat for a while, lazily, about simple things. She snuggles into the crook of his arm and revels in the warmth of his chest.

Before too long, her eyelids start to flutter closed. Sterling shakes her awake, reminding her how prone Aunt Evelyn is to worry.

Sadie's heart leaps at how considerate he's being, and she doesn't want to leave – but Sterling's adamant and sees her to the door.

Before she goes, Sadie gives him another gentle kiss, and promises to see him again the next day.

A little while later, back at home, she slips in the front door and ignores (or pretended to ignore) Aunt Evelyn's questioning glance as she goes into her bedroom, curls up the bed, and sighs longingly over her valiant treasure hunter.

40-49

Sadie leans into the kiss, enjoying the moment with him.

After a few moments, she pulls away and blinks a few times, then smiles happily.

Sterling pulls a book of matches from his sleeve and relights the candle. His hospital room has a radio, and he switches it on; the soft sounds of jazz fill the room.

He pulls her to him, and they dance a slow, sweet rhythm together, losing themselves in the music and the moment.

After a few moments, a nurse bursts into the room, alerted by the music! Laughing, Sterling helps Sadie out the window before she can get in trouble. Of course, he steals a few kisses from her before closing the panes behind her.

Laughing, Sadie hails a cab and heads home, getting in late enough that Aunt Evelyn wonders aloud where she had been.

Smiling to herself, Sadie shrugs, then dances into the kitchen for a midnight snack, moving to music only she can hear…

30-39

Sadie leans into the kiss; unconsciously, Sterling touches his hand to her face. She sighs, happily, and cups her own hand to his.

Sterling pulls a book of matches from his sleeve and relights the candle. He offers to read her a few more stories from his adventure book, and Sadie snuggled into the crook of his arm for the length of a few more tales of his past exploits.

Before too long, her eyelids start to flutter closed.

Sterling shakes her awake, reminding her how prone Aunt Evelyn is to worry. She thanks him for being a gentleman, and makes her way home – but not before giving Sterling another gentle kiss.

Back at Aunt Evelyn's, she slips into her bedroom quietly, sighing dreamily as she sinks onto the bed and cuddles with her pillow.

20-29

Sadie leans into the kiss. She closes her eyes, losing herself for a moment – then pulls back, her stomach aflutter.

She giggles, and Sterling slides out a book of matches to relight the candle.

Tenderly, he looks into her eyes with the flame flickering between them.

Sadie's the first to look away, feeling excited but nervous, and she slides a pack of cards of her sleeve to ease the tension. She teaches him a few card tricks, giggling at his hopeless attempts to impress her with sleight of hand.

The moon rises, and Sadie remembers how late it is and how prone Aunt Evelyn is to worry. Sterling walks her to the door of his room, giving her another tender kiss before she goes.

Sadie hails a cab and returns home, slipping in the front door with a blush on her cheeks and the memory of his kiss on her lips.

10-19

Sadie's the first to pull back; she giggles a little bit, and Sterling clears his throat to mask the tension.

He slides out a book of matches and uses it to relight the candle.

Nervously, Sadie slides a pack of cards out of her sleeve and suggests a quick game of gin rummy. They play for matchsticks and bits of crumpled up paper until late at night, talking, laughing, and joking with each other - and Sterling cheats less than he ever has before.

Before Aunt Evelyn can get too worried, Sadie decided to leave. Sterling walked her to the door of his room, giving her a long hug before she goes. Sadie hails a cab and returns home, slipping in the front door with a blush on her cheeks and a smile on her lips.

0-9

Sadie was the first to pull back; she giggled a little bit, and Sterling cleared his throat to mask the tension. He slid out a book of matches and used it to relight the candle.

Nervously, Sadie slid a pack of cards out of her sleeve and suggested a quick game of gin rummy. They played for matchsticks and bits of crumpled up paper until late at night, talking, laughing, and joking with each other. Sterling cheated less than he ever had at cards.

Before Aunt Evelyn could get too worried, Sadie decided to leave. Sterling walked her to the door of his room, giving her a long hug before she goes. Sadie hailed a cab and returned home, slipping in the front door with a blush on her cheeks and a smile on her lips.

Friendship with Sterling[]

Friendship with Sterling
100
Sadie blinks as she watches Lorelei move to Sterling's side, almost protectively.

She asks if Lore and Sterling are dating, and he nods, slowly. With a mix of embarrassment and pride, he reveals that Lorelei visited him frequently in Turkey, and they fell for each other.

Sadie sees Sterling's smiling eyes and immediately realizes that he's happier than she's ever seen him. She can see the love in Sterling's face immediately; Sadie knows him that well.

But what's really surprising is that, under the haughty defiance and smug pride, she can see the same feelings in Lore's eyes.

Her initial feelings of anger and distrust fade, and Sadie finds herself surprisingly happy for her best friend. True, Lorelei would not have been her first choice, or second, or third, but she obviously cares for Sterling, and he for her.

Quashing her pride, Sadie smiles and rushes to Sterling's bedside, pouring all three of them cups of cold juice from a nearby pitcher and toasting to Sterling's happiness. Taken aback by Sadie's warmth, Lore smiled in spite of herself.

The ice broken, Sterling helps ease the tension even further by announcing dramatically that he's famished and that he needs food.

Five minutes later, they find themselves in the ward's staff kitchen, Sterling and Sadie attempting to whip up an omelet while Lorelei rolls her eyes and barks the occasional order as overseer of the project.

The last vestiges of tension between Sterling and Sadie are gone, and they laugh and joke just like old times. Even Sadie and Lorelei chat in a friendly manner.

As Sadie gets ready to leave at the end of the night, Sterling stops her and, with a shy grin, hands over his sketchbook.

'A record of our crazy adventures together,' he says with a smile.

Later, back in her room at Aunt Evelyn's, Sadie starts to flip through Sterling's adventure journal.

Here, the picture of them in the office.. there, they ride on an elephant, and there... there!

Confronted with the drawing on the last page, Sadie blinks; she can scarcely believe her eyes. After a few moments, she drops the journal and throws herself on the bed in tears.

How could Sterling do this?!

90-99

Sadie blinks as she watches Lorelei move to Sterling's side, almost protectively.

She asks if Lore and Sterling are dating, and he nods, slowly. With a mix of embarrassment and pride, he reveals that Lorelei visited him frequently in Turkey, and they fell for each other.

Sadie sees Sterling's smiling eyes and immediately realizes that he's happier than she's ever seen him. She can see the love in Sterling's face immediately; she knows him that well.

But what's really surprising was that, under the haughty defiance and smug pride, she could see the same feelings in Lore's eyes.

Her initial feelings of anger and distrust fade, and Sadie finds herself surprisingly happy for her best friend. True, Lorelei would not have been her first choice, or second, or third, but she obviously cares for Sterling, and he for her, so that's as good a start as any.

Quashing her pride, Sadie smiles and rushes to Sterling's bedside, pouring all three of them cups of cold juice from a nearby pitcher and toasting to Sterling's happiness.

Taken aback by Sadie's warmth, Lore smiles (probably in spite of herself).

The ice broken, Sterling helps ease the tension even further by announcing dramatically that he's famished and that he needs food.

Five minutes later, they find themselves in the ward's staff kitchen, Sterling and Sadie attempting to whip up an omelet while Lorelei rolls her eyes and barks the occasional order as overseer of the project.

The last vestiges of tension between Sterling and Sadie are gone, and they laugh and joke just like old times. Even Sadie and Lorelei chat in a friendly manner, and Lorelei goes so far as to offer to drive Sadie home in the car she'd rented.

The drive's mostly quiet, but civil, with Lorelei restricting any plans for 'revenge' to simply boasting about how wonderful Sterling was and how they'd grown close.

Sadie smiles, says truthfully that she's glad for them, and thanks Lore for the ride as they arrive at Aunt Evelyn's.

Tired and overwhelmed but ultimately happy, Sadie collapses into bed and falls into a deep, satisfied sleep.

80-89

Sadie sees Sterling's smiling eyes and immediately realizes that he's happier than she's ever seen him.

She asks if Lore and Sterling are dating, and he nods, slowly. With a mix of embarrassment and pride, he reveals that Lorelei visited him frequently in Turkey, and they fell for each other.

Sadie's first instinct is to feel angry and distrustful of Lorelei, but after a moment, she quashes that feeling. If Sterling's happy, that's what matters, and she resolves to support him.... until Lore shows her true colors, that is.

Sticking out a hand to Lorelei, she congratulates them both; Lore, after looking at Sadie's hand as if it were about to bite, cautiously takes it and shakes it coolly.

Sterling, glad to see that everyone's being civil, uses the opportunity to lighten the atmosphere by complaining about hospital food. When Lorelei points out that there's a small staff kitchen that patients can use to cook... well, it somehow results in all three of them clustered around the stove, attempting to cook an omelet.

While none of them are stellar chefs, they're able to produce something resembling food - and in the process they're able to make highly awkward but genuine attempts at friendly chatting.

After a while, Sadie leaves the hospital to give the other two time alone, promising to come by the next day.

Back at Aunt Evelyn's, she takes a deep breath and releases it.

She can deal with this. Sterling's still her friend. And whatever Lore's endgame is, Sadie will be there to support Sterling to the very end.

70-79

Concerned for her friend, Sadie demands an explanation for Lore's presence.

With just a touch of embarrassment, Sterling reveals that Lore visited him frequently in Turkey, and they fell for each other.

Sadie's first response is to feel angry and distrustful of Lore, and though she quashes it as best as possible, she makes no serious attempt to hide her reluctance when she holds out her hand for Lore to shake.

The German academic, in her turn, stares at it like Sadie's open palm is a snake. Giving up, Sadie congratulates Sterling on his new-found happiness and heads for the door.

'Wait, Sadie...' Sterling whispers something to Lorelei, who sighs and leaves the room, avoiding contact with Sadie as she slips out. 'I don't want this to be awkward. I'm with Lorelei, but... you're still one of my best friends. Can't we at least spend time together like that?'

Sadie's initially reluctant, but he's so good at that puppy-dog gaze...!

In the end, she lets him convince her to join him in the staff kitchen in the ward where they can cook 'a real, honest-to-God meal,' as Sterling puts it.

Slowly, with each ingredient, the awkwardness fades a little, and Sadie listens respectfully as Sterling talks honestly about his time with Lorelei, the way their relationship has developed, and his hope that he and Sadie can still be friends.

Assuring him that that would always be true, Sadie leaves him to eat his omelet (though it looks more like an unappetizing yellow quilt than anything to do with eggs) and heads back to Aunt Evelyn's, troubled but somewhat hopeful about her friend's new step in life.

Now if only she and Lorelei can learn to bear being in the same room together...

60-69

Sadie takes one look at Lore and blinks in surprise. Calmly, coolly, she asks, 'Sterling, can we please talk somewhere? In private?'

Sterling apologizes to Lore, and steps outside with Sadie. He guides her to a small kitchen where the staff and some patients can do some cooking.

Awkwardly, he begins whipping up an omelet as a way to distract himself and defuse the tension. As he clumsily begins the mixing, he explains that Lore visited him frequently in Turkey, and they fell for each other.

'I know she comes over a bit cold and heartless,' he explained, whipping egg yolk everywhere, 'but she really isn't. Underneath all that, she's... like anyone else, really. Confused, vulnerable, wanting to love and be love. I'm crazy about her, Sadie... and she is about me.'

Sadie's still confused and a little hurt, but Sterling's wild gesticulations with the egg whisk can't help but make her laugh. After a moment, she admits that it'll take some time to get used to, but in time, she hopes she can be as happy for both of them as they deserve.

After promising to speak with Sterling again soon, she calls a cab and asks the driver to take her home.

Once there, she goes straight up to her room and falls into bed.

From somewhere inside, a little voice asks her why she cares so much.

50-59

Sadie takes one look at Lore and blinks in surprise. Calmly, coolly, Sadie asks, 'Sterling, can we please talk outside? In private?'

For a moment, both Sterling and Lore's eyes flare with something like hurt before Sterling's expression hardens.

'Sadie, whatever you want to say to me, you can say to Lore. I'm not going to have any secrets from her.' He pauses. 'Not when we're a couple.'

The emotions in their eyes - embarrassment and happiness in one, triumph and genuine pride in the other - confirm his words.

Confused and a little hurt, Sadie decides to leave, muttering some excuse. Before she leaves, however, she stops by the door and drops a small package - a bag filled with cookies she baked specially for him.

Once outside the hospital, Sadie flags down a cab and asks the driver to take her home.

As she walks in the door, she looks sadly into the kitchen, still a mess from baking the cookies in a last minute rush.

She wonders if he'll eat them or if Lorelei will throw them out. For a brief moment, she imagines Sterling in that kitchen with her, the two of them joking together and making a mess.

Shaking her head, she turns away. She'll just have to come to terms with it, she supposes... just not right away.

40-49

Sadie takes one look at Lore and blinks in surprise.

'Ms... Krause? Sterling, is this what it looks like? I mean, I know she saved your life, and I know I said you had to move on, but... with her? Are you sure about this?'

Sterling gazes at Sadie regretfully for a moment, but nods. Confused and a little hurt, Sadie decides to leave. She wanted Sterling to be happy, but she has too many bad memories of the German academic to cheer him on in this.

Once outside the hospital, Sadie flags down a cab and asks the driver to take her home.

As she walks in the door, she looks sadly into the kitchen, still a mess from when she'd decided last-minute to bake him some get-well cookies, the bag's weight almost forgotten in her hands.

For a brief moment, she imagines Sterling in that kitchen with her, the two of them joking together and making a mess.

Shaking her head, she turns away. She spends the night in her room, gossiping over the house phone with Anna about Sterling's new alliance.

Poor Bigglesworth barely gets a wink of sleep.

30-39

'Wait, are you... what is she...?' Sadie gulps, the implications sinking in.

Sterling looks at her sadly. 'Sadie, you told me I had to move on, and I did.'

'But with her?' To her horror, tears come to Sadie's eyes. 'I'm sorry, I can't deal with this right now.' And with that, she turns on her heel and leaves.

Sterling raises a hand to stop Sadie. His arm lingers for a moment, trembling outstretched, but Lore tenderly guides his fingers to the bed. She folds him into a hug. 'You have to let her go,' Lore whispers. 'She'd never understand us anyway.'

Once outside the hospital, Sadie flags down a cab and asks the driver to take her home.

As she walks in the door, she looks sadly into the kitchen, still a mess from when she'd decided last-minute to bake him some get-well cookies, the bag's weight almost forgotten in her hands.

For a brief moment, she imagines Sterling in that kitchen with her, the two of them joking together and making a mess.

Shaking her head, she turns away. She spends the night with her Aunt Evelyn, talking about the encounter and why she feels so upset.

She should feel happy for both of them... shouldn't she?

20-29

'Far be it from me to tell you how to live, Sterling,' Sadie mutters, 'But you should be more careful of the company you keep!'

Sadie turns up her nose at Lore and sashays out of the room.

Sterling cries out, but Lore enfolds him in a hug. 'If she's not even willing to talk to you about this, good riddance,' Lore whispers. 'She'd never understand us anyway.'

Once outside the hospital, Sadie flags down a cab and asks the driver to take her home. As she walks through the door, she looks sadly into the kitchen, still a mess from when she'd decided last-minute to bake him some get-well cookies (now thrown in a garbage can at the hospital).

For a brief moment, she imagines Sterling in that kitchen with her, the two of them joking together and making a mess. Shaking her head, she turns away and puts him out of her head.

She spends the night with her Aunt Evelyn, trouncing her soundly at chess. She doesn't think of Sterling at all. Well, maybe once or twice.

10-19

Sadie takes one look at Lore and bolted from the room. She can take a lot of things, but not this, not after everything that had happened with Ruddy, and the library, and everything else in Turkey.

Sterling cries out, but Lore enfolds him in a hug. 'If she's not even willing to talk to you about this, good riddance,' Lore whispers. 'She'd never understand us anyway.'

Once outside the hospital, Sadie flags down a cab and asks the driver to take her home. By the time she gets in, Aunt Evelyn's out, and the place is deserted. She looks sadly into the kitchen, still a mess from when she'd decided last-minute to bake him some get-well cookies (now thrown in a garbage can at the hospital).

For a brief moment, she imagines Sterling in that kitchen with her, the two of them joking together and making a mess. Shaking her head, she stomps off to bed and curls up, refusing to think of Sterling again. Well, maybe once or twice.

0-9

'I think I'm about to throw up,' Sadie declared primly, whirling on her heel and leaving. Once she got back to Aunt Evelyn's place, she locked herself in the bathroom and didn't come out until she stopped heaving.

Back in the hospital room, Sterling blinked. 'Wow, I didn't realize you disgusted her that much, Lore!'

Lore smiled sweetly at her poor, deluded man. 'Oh Sterling, I think it was you she was puking about.'

Dream of Felix[]

Dream of Felix
100

The kiss is everything Sadie had dreamed of... strong, sweet and gentle, just like her Felix. With his arms around her, cradling her gently, it's so easy to drift off and get lost in the moment - and she does so with great pleasure, letting their lips meet again and again.

Afterwards, they walk through Central Park together, Felix's arm around her shoulders. They talk in low, tender tones about their feelings, their future together, and the strange twists and turns that had brought them together... about Sadie's visions of them as children, about how Felix had been thinking of her throughout his sister's wedding, about how both had felt empty without the other at their side. Nothing's held back now that they've truly found each other again.

Eventually, the night grows a little chilly, and Sadie asks Felix to return to Aunt Evelyn's place with her to spend a little more time together. He agrees, and when the door opens and Aunt Evelyn gawks at the way they're holding hands, he merely smiles and squeezes tighter.

Of course, Aunt Evelyn's more than happy with the turn of events, switching between eagerly chatting with the two of them over hot chocolate and cookies and mysteriously vanishing to find 'some old thing I've forgotten,' while Sadie and Felix are conveniently left alone.

At last, Felix has to head home, apologizing both for having to leave and for keeping them up.

As the door shuts behind him and Aunt Evelyn bustles around cheerfully looking for another drink before bed, Sadie begins cleaning up the cups and saucers on the table, whistling a romantic tune... only to find something resting on the side table where Felix had been sitting.

Her eyes widen as she recognizes a fragment of a fertility idol she recovered from Turkey... one that should have been in one of the crates at the museum.

90-99

The kiss is everything Sadie had dreamed of... strong, sweet and gentle, just like her Felix. With his arms around her, it's so easy to drift off and get lost in the moment - and she does so with great pleasure, letting their lips meet again and again.

Afterwards, they walk through Central Park together, Felix's arm around her shoulders. They talk in low, tender tones about their feelings, their future together, and the strange twists and turns that had brought them together... about Sadie's visions of them as children, about how Felix had been thinking of her throughout his sister's wedding, about how both had felt empty without the other at their side. Nothing's held back now that they've truly found each other again.

Eventually, the night grows a little chilly, and Sadie asks Felix to return to Aunt Evelyn's place with her to spend a little more time together. He agrees, and when the door opens and Aunt Evelyn gawks at the way they're holding hands, he merely smiles and squeezes tighter.

Of course, Aunt Evelyn's more than happy with the turn of events, switching between eagerly chatting with the two of them over hot chocolate and cookies and mysteriously vanishing to find 'some old thing I've forgotten,' while Sadie and Felix are conveniently left alone. There are more than a few blushes over the course of the evening, and more than a few moments of happiness, love, and belonging.

As Felix leaves for the night, Sadie can't wait for the next day, and the day after that, and the day after that...

80-89

The kiss is everything Sadie had dreamed of... strong, sweet and gentle, just like her Felix. With his arms around her, it's so easy to drift off and get lost in the moment - and she does so with great pleasure.

Afterwards, they walk through Central Park together, Felix's arm around her shoulders as he guides her along the path. They talk about the strange twists and turns that brought them together... about Sadie's visions of them as children, about how Felix had been thinking of her throughout his sister's wedding, about how both had felt empty without the other at their side. Every moment they spend together brings them even closer.

Eventually, the night grows a little chilly, and Sadie asks Felix to return to Aunt Evelyn's place with her to spend a little more time together. He agrees, and to his credit he doesn't blink when Aunt Evelyn gives him The Look and The Knowing Smirk when she sees them holding hands.

The rest of the night passes pleasantly, with Aunt Evelyn eagerly chatting with Sadie's 'dear old friend,' between conveniently 'forgetting' things in another room and leaving them alone for a few minutes.

By the time Felix heads home, both he and Sadie are slightly red in the face, but the smiles on their faces (and on Evelyn's when they aren't looking) are genuine and giddy.

70-79

The kiss is everything Sadie had dreamed of... strong, sweet and gentle, just like her Felix. It's so easy to drift off and get lost in it, and she does so with great pleasure.

Afterwards, they walk through Central Park together, Felix's arm around her shoulders as he guides her along the path. They talk about anything and everything... about Sadie's personal revelations of her feelings, about Felix's new position, and about the strange twists and turns that brought them together. Every moment they spend together brings them even closer.

Eventually, the night grows a little chilly, and Sadie asks Felix to return to Aunt Evelyn's place with her to spend a little more time together. He agrees, but the minute Aunt Evelyn fixes him with The Look and The Raised Eyebrow, he turns red - and then he stays quiet for the rest of the night.

Still, he earns a quick wink from his host as he leaves... and a sweet goodbye kiss from Sadie.

60-69

Sadie melts as their lips touch. The kiss was just like Felix: strong, shy, and sweet. She's quite happy to let it drag on for an eternity, or until they run out of breath, whichever happens first...

When they do part, they're both breathing a little hard. Felix grins. 'Not bad for a department assistant with a knack for gadgets, hmm?'

Sadie laughs and suggests they take a little walk. They end up strolling hand in hand in Central Park, talking and laughing over their newfound romance and the occasional break to 'practice kissing,' as Sadie puts it.

As the evening wears on, Felix walks her back to Aunt Evelyn's place and Sadie invites him in, sure that Aunt Evelyn would be over the moon about the news. Felix, however, blushes and says he'll need to gather his courage a bit more before facing her 'interrogation.'

They agree to meet again the next day, and part with one last, expertly practiced kiss.

50-59

Sadie melts as their lips touch. The kiss is just like Felix... shy and sweet, but with a certain strength to it. She's a little dizzy afterwards, but manages to murmur, 'Wow, that was... nice!'

Felix blushes a bit, but he can't help but smirk. 'I'm glad to know I have other talents besides lifting heavy boxes and building radios.'

Laughing, Sadie suggests they go for a stroll in Central Park. It's a new experience to be with Felix, hand in hand, talking in an awkward, sincere way about things like Sadie's trip home from Turkey or Felix's sister's wedding. And if their conversation's occasionally interrupted by the odd kiss here and there, who are they to complain?

As the evening draws to a close, Felix walks her to her door and kisses her one last time, savoring the moment, before promising to see her the next day.

'My dear, what happened to you? You're almost glowing!' Aunt Evelyn exclaims as Sadie floats inside. Sadie, for her part, is far too busy sighing dreamily to answer.

40-49

Sadie melts a little as their lips touch. The kiss is just like Felix... shy and sweet.

She blushes as they pull away. 'Wow... that was... nice.'

Felix turns red, but the grin on his face says everything.

They walk around Central Park together, hand in hand, switching between nervous but happy conversation and a comfortable silence. It's a new feeling now that they're more than friends, but Sadie thinks she might get to like it.

Eventually, as the night draws on, Felix walks her to her door and says good night... but not before kissing her again, making her turn into a little puddle of happy goo on the doorstep.

It's all she can do not to blurt out everything to Aunt Evelyn, but Sadie satisfies herself with cuddling up with a pillow on the couch and smiling in a dreamy way.

30-39

It's a bit of a clumsy kiss - there's definitely a nose bump in there somewhere - but Sadie still smiles as they break apart.

Felix grins, blushing. 'Ah, I haven't done this very much.'

Sadie gazes up at him tenderly. 'Felix, I'm with the boy I love, there's a beautiful sunset, and everything in the world is wonderful. As kisses go, this was definitely one of the better ones.'

Felix looks relieved at that, and suggests they walk together in Central Park. Hand in hand, they wander the paths in a sort of happy confusion. Everything's so new and different, and even though it's really awkward - the sweaty palms, the nervous tongue-tied conversation, the uncertainty of how fast or slow to walk together - it's still one of the best evenings either of them has ever had.

Felix walks her to Aunt Evelyn's door, where he musters up the courage for Attempt Number 2 at a kiss.

It's shy, and sweet, and utterly adorable, and Sadie's still walking on air when she shuts the door, dancing by a curious Aunt Evelyn to a tune only she can hear.

20-29

It's a bit of a clumsy kiss - there's definitely a nose bump in there somewhere - but Sadie still smiles as they break apart.

Felix grins, blushing. 'Ah, I haven't done this very much.'

'I guess we'll just have to practice some more.' Sadie blushes as well at her own daring, but she manages a saucy wink that makes Felix laugh.

Despite the suggestion, they hold off for the time being, deciding instead to take a walk around Central Park together, hand in hand. They're unusually quiet, a mixture of happiness and nerves making them both tongue-tied, but as far as awkward silences go, this is one of the best. One look at the smile on Felix's face only confirms it.

They hold hands all the way to Aunt Evelyn's door, where Felix takes both her hands in his and gazes at her warmly. Sadie wonders if he might kiss her again... but alas, he only squeezes her hands and promises to see her the next day.

Feeling a little giddy and silly, she heads inside and curls up on her bed, grinning at the memory of the kiss and the anticipation of many more like it.

10-19

It's a bit of a clumsy kiss - there's definitely a nose bump in there somewhere - but Sadie still smiles as they pull apart. Felix coughs, blushing. 'Ah, I haven't done this very much.'

'Never mind, Felix. It's early days, yet.' Sadie blushes as well, as she straightens up. 'We just need to relax and enjoy it.'

The two go for a walk around Central Park, hand in hand, not speaking much. Sadie can't think of a time she felt more nervous or tongue-tied, and her palms are damp with sweat - but as far as awkward silences go, this is one of the best.

They hold hands all the way to Aunt Evelyn's door, where Felix leaves her with a tender look and a smile. Feeling a little giddy and silly, she goes inside and curls up on her bed, grinning at the memory of the day.

0-9

Felix leans in to kiss Sadie, but unfortunately their noses bump... hard. There's a snapping sound as they bounce back, holding their respective noses.

'OWW! You broge by dose!' Sadie yells.

'You did id firsd,' Felix snorts.

Ah, young love...

Friendship with Felix[]

Friendship with Felix
100

They speak for an hour or so about Felix's new position, then about Sadie's adventures in Turkey. When she lets slip that several crates' worth of artifacts from the expedition just arrived at the museum, Felix perks up and demands (or, really, asks very sincerely) to help her sort them.

'It's the least I can do to be part of the expedition without, you know, being part of the expedition,' he joked. 'Besides, it's my job to be at your beck and call, right?'

Sadie smiles warmly. 'You know that that's not it. You're my brother, Felix... I can't imagine life without you.'

Still, said brother is eager to help, so they spend several hours at the museum, talking honestly with each other as they carry large crates and boxes into place. No topic is out of bounds, not even Sadie's terrible showdown with Ruddy.

Once they finish, without either needing to suggest it, they walk to Central Park together and talk endlessly as they wander the tree-lined paths. When Felix walks her home, Sadie doesn't even need to invite him in; in her eyes, he belongs there - and if he has any doubts, Aunt Evelyn's warm welcome puts them to rest. The three stay up long into the night, sipping on teas and other stronger drinks, chatting and laughing as a family until it's almost midnight.

At last, Felix has to head home, apologizing both for having to leave and for keeping them up. As the door shuts behind him and Aunt Evelyn bustles around cheerfully looking for another drink before bed, Sadie begins cleaning up the cups and saucers on the table... only to find something resting on the side table where Felix had been sitting.

Her eyes widen as she recognizes a fragment of a fertility idol she'd recovered from Turkey... one that should have been in one of the crates at the museum.

90-99

They speak for an hour or so about Felix's new position, then about Sadie's adventures in Turkey. When she lets slip that several crates' worth of artifacts from the expedition just arrived at the museum, Felix perks up and demands (or, really, asks very sincerely) to help her sort them.

'It's the least I can do to be part of the expedition without, you know, being part of the expedition,' he joked. 'Besides, it's my job to be at your beck and call, right?'

Sadie smiles warmly. 'You know that that's not it. You're my friend... no, you're like a brother.'

Still, said brother is eager to help, so they spend several hours at the museum, talking honestly with each other as they carry large crates and boxes into place. No topic's out of bounds, whether it's Felix's thoughts about his sister's wedding or Sadie's opinion of the dean or what their dreams for the future are.

Once they're done, without either needing to suggest it, they walk to Central Park together and talk endlessly as they wander the tree-lined paths.

When Felix walks her home, Sadie doesn't even need to invite him in; in her eyes, he belongs there, and if he had any doubts, Aunt Evelyn's warm welcome puts them to rest.

The three stay up long into the night, sipping on teas and other stronger drinks, chatting and laughing as a family until the stroke of midnight.

80-89

After an hour or so of talking excitedly over Felix's new student status, he unexpectedly blushes a little.

'Hey, Sadie... I know this might be a weird question, but is there anything I can do to help with the whole Turkey thing while you're here? I mean, I feel bad for not being there, and I'd love to hear more about it, so...'

Sadie smiles warmly. 'Oh Felix, that's so sweet of you... as a matter of fact, we did just get some crates of artifacts shipped over to the museum that need to be sorted... but I can't ask you to spend your time doing that!'

Felix won't hear any protests, however, and they soon find themselves at the museum, lugging large boxes around and talking heart-to-heart about everything that's happened since their reunion, and about where life was going to take them next.

The work goes quickly, and they spend the last few dwindling hours of the evening walking around Central Park, talking about Professor Hemsworth and Anna and all the other friends they have in common. When Sadie asks him back to the apartment to see Aunt Evelyn, Felix happily accepts (once promised that there would be no parties).

Aunt Evelyn, for her part, is more than happy to see Sadie's old friend, and keeps him there long into the evening, finally thrusting a concoction she calls a 'nightcap' into his hand as he leaves.

'You're family,' she says, and Sadie's glad to see that Felix doesn't even begin to disagree.

70-79

The two old friends sit and talk for almost half an hour - and then Sadie has to interrupt.

'Felix, I'd love to stay and chat more, but I have to get back to the museum... we brought back a lot of artifacts from Turkey, and I promised Professor Hemsworth I'd get the crates moved and sorted...'

Felix grins. 'I was wondering about that. Actually, I'd love to come and help you... it's the least I can do for not being able to join you, and seeing what you brought back is almost like going myself.' His smile turns wry. 'Besides, it's been at least a month since you last asked me for a special favor...'

Sadie laughs. 'Oh, I didn't realize I'd left it that long! We'll have to fix that...'

Together, they head to the museum and begin sorting through the boxes and crates from Turkey. The work goes fast as Felix and Sadie discuss every subject under the sun: her experiences in Turkey, Felix's new position, their happy memories of the past and their dreams for the future.

As soon as they finish, they go to Central Park to continue their discussion, strolling around the park grounds while they laugh, sigh, and smile together. They easily lose track of time and place, and it's dark before Felix brings Sadie home to Aunt Evelyn's... but even then, despite the late hour, they stand in the hallway outside the apartment, chatting and joking.

Finally the door opens and Aunt Evelyn, with a smile and knowing wink, calls Sadie inside and bids Felix farewell.

60-69

The two old friends sit and talk for almost half an hour - and then Sadie has to interrupt.

'Felix, I'd love to stay and chat more, but I have to get back to the museum... we brought back a lot of artifacts from Turkey, and I promised Professor Hemsworth I'd get the crates moved and sorted...'

Felix smiles bashfully. 'Actually... think I could come and help? I feel bad I wasn't able to go with you this time, and... well, if you wouldn't mind, I'd enjoy a tour.'

How could she turn down such a kind offer? They go to the museum together and soon get cracking on the pile of boxes and crates from Turkey. With the two of them working together, the work seems to go quickly, and it's certainly a lot more enjoyable than it would've been if Sadie had been alone. She's almost startled by how much fun it is to describe Turkey to Felix, to tell him all about her adventures without holding anything back.

Even after they finish, they sit in the museum storeroom for an hour before they decide to find better surroundings. They walk back to Aunt Evelyn's place slowly, talking the whole way about the year ahead at NYU.

Evelyn's pleased to see them both, and although Felix has to head home far too soon, she's able to keep him long enough for a 'nightcap' and a bit of light chat.

50-59

The two old friends sit and talk for almost half an hour - and then Sadie has to interrupt.

'Felix, I'd love to stay and chat more, but I have to get back to the museum... we brought back a lot of artifacts from Turkey, and I promised Professor Hemsworth I'd get the crates moved and sorted...'

Felix smiles warmly. 'And you think I'd leave you to tackle those by yourself? Come on, heavy lifting is what I do. Let's go together.'

With the two of them working together, the work seems to go quickly, and it's certainly a lot more enjoyable than it would've been if Sadie had been alone. She and Felix laugh and reminisce over the past year and dwell for a while on how lucky they'd been to reunite.

Even after they finish, they sit in the museum storeroom for several hours, Sadie telling Felix all about Turkey and the fun he'll have when he goes there for himself.

As the evening draws to a close, Felix walks her home, seeing her off at the door before returning home himself (and escaping Aunt Evelyn's well-meaning but exhausting hospitality).

Ignoring the twinkle in her aunt's eye as she comes in, Sadie collapses on the couch with a smile, glad to have Felix back in her life for good.

40-49

The two old friends sit and talk for almost half an hour - and then Sadie has to interrupt.

'Felix, I'd love to stay and chat more, but I have to get back to the museum... we brought back a lot of artifacts from Turkey, and I promised Professor Hemsworth I'd get the crates moved and sorted...'

Felix smiles and shrugs with good grace. 'Why don't I come with you and help? Carrying heavy objects is kind of my thing, in case you haven't noticed.'

With the two of them working together, the work seems to go quickly, and it's certainly a lot more enjoyable than it would've been if Sadie had been alone. She and Felix laugh and reminisce over the past year and all the adventures they've had together. Neither of them pay any attention as the evening drags on and their muscles start to hurt.

At last, they shelve the last box and say goodbye, promising to see each other later that week.

It's late by the time Sadie catches a cab back to Aunt Evelyn's, but she wouldn't have traded her time with Felix for anything.

30-39

An hour later, Felix sighs as the two arrive at the museum to see a large stack of crates with the NYU seal waiting for him.

'You and the Professor brought all this back from Turkey? Admit it, you just buttered me up so I'd help move your stuff.'

Sadie smiles. 'Oh Felix, that's not all, and you know it. But... um... I {i}would{/i} still appreciate a bit of help...'

Felix shrugs with good grace and begins lifting some of the larger crates, while Sadie helps support them as best she can. The work's hard but fun, and the company's good, with plenty of jokes and teasing between the two of them.

Neither of them pay any attention as the evening drags on, and when Felix offers to finish up so Sadie can go home early, she turns him down. Like she would leave a friend to handle all this alone!

It's late by the time she catches a cab back to Aunt Evelyn's, but in her eyes it's still the perfect end to a great day.

20-29

Felix isn't so happy an hour later when the two finally arrive at the museum to see a large stack of crates with the NYU seal waiting for him.

'You and the Professor brought all this back from Turkey? Admit it, you just buttered me up so I'd help move your stuff.'

Sadie laughs. 'Oh Felix, like I would do something like that! Now grab that box over there...'

Despite his grumbling, Felix digs in with gusto, and Sadie helps out as best as she can. The work's hard, but the company's good, with plenty of jokes and teasing between the two of them.

Eventually Felix kindly suggests that Sadie head home to Aunt Evelyn while he finishes up.

After thanking him profusely and promising to return the favor, she returns home, happy with the day and with her old friend.

10-19

Felix isn't so happy an hour later when the two finally arrive at the museum to see a large stack of crates with the NYU seal waiting for him.

'You and the Professor brought all this back from Turkey? Admit it, you just buttered me up so I'd help move your stuff.'

Sadie smiles. 'Guilty as charged, I'm afraid. Now let's get started!'

Despite his grumbling, Felix digs in with gusto, and Sadie helps out with some of the smaller boxes. The work's hard, but the company's good, so that's something.

Still, eventually Sadie has to head home, leaving Felix to finish up.

It's late by the time she reaches Aunt Evelyn's apartment, and she's tired, but she's still ready to hit the sack with a smile on her face.

0-9

Unbeknownst to Felix, however, Sadie's true plan was merely to manipulate him into carrying all her heavy crates of artifacts around the museum. 'She-demon! You lied to me!'

Sadie can't help but laugh. 'Look, I'm sorry, but what did you want me to do, carry them myself? You're a big tough guy, I'm sure you can handle it.'

With a charming grin, she leaves him to finish things up and heads home to Aunt Evelyn's - where she falls asleep as soon as her head hits her pillow.

Dream of Nigel[]

Dream of Nigel
100

Nigel and Sadie, after making the proper appearances before the University's investors, sneak off back into his office. Even though they've been there many times before, this time feels different - the place is theirs, not Nigel's alone.

They start to talk to each other about... well, everything, from trivialities to big summer plans. One fact comes becoming clearer and clearer: Nigel's much more than a professor or even a boyfriend; just seeing him smile makes her as happy as she's ever been.

Suddenly, he swallows and smiles at her nervously.

'Sadie, I know it's silly. I don't want you to think I'm pushing you into anything... but I-I want you to have this. These, rather. You don't have to wear them if you don't want to...' He pulls a small box out of his jacket and opens it, revealing two sparkling chandelier earrings.

She takes the earrings into her hand, gingerly holding them in the light. She's just about to babble about how beautiful they were as Aunt Evelyn crashes into the room.

'Sadie!' she yelps, 'I've been looking for you all over this... Oh, hello, Nigel. Lovely to see you, but I need my niece for a moment or three!'

Aunt Evelyn grabs Sadie by the wrist and pulls her out the door. With one desperate wave, Sadie says goodbye to Nigel as she's pulled out the door.

90-99

A flashbulb pops and flares and a gossip reporter shouts, 'Hot Scoop!' - and Nigel and Sadie realize that their romance isn't much of a secret anymore.

'What do you say you and I go somewhere a little more…private?' Nigel asks.

He and Sadie, after making the proper appearances before the University's investors, sneak off back into his office. Even though they've been there many times before, this time feels different - the place is theirs, not Nigel's alone.

They start to talk to each other about... well, everything, from trivialities to big summer plans. As they part in the very early morning, Sadie realizes that Nigel's much more than a professor or even a boyfriend; just knowing he's out there makes her as happy as she's ever been.

80-89

Nigel smiles at Sadie, happy that they're finally together.

'You know, it would be a pity to waste such a beautiful night on a bunch of investors and a room full of stodgy academics,' Nigel whispers into her ear. 'I think you'll find one stodgy academic is all you need.'

Sadie smiles back at him, knowing what he means.

The two run to the street, catch a cab, and spend the night dancing at New York's finest clubs. Right before dawn, and after one more kiss, they leave each other, promising to meet again soon.

70-79

Sadie smiles back up at Nigel as he holds her in his arms, not wanting to let her go.

'And to think, this all happened because we crashed into each other in a hallway. I've never fallen into love very gracefully.'

Nigel laughs, assuring her he wasn't the most graceful guy either—he did fall into a tomb, after all. The two spend the next few minutes talking about their summer plans before both realize that they have much better things to do than make appearances at some stodgy party.

They spend the rest of the night at a dance hall, and then strolling, laughing, through Central Park. Sadie kisses Nigel one more time as the day begins to break.

As she walks home, all she can think about is how she wants to see him again.

60-69

After a few good seconds, they're interrupted. By Steven.

'Oh, for the love of God, even Professor Hemsworth's getting some action? I'm the only one who's not! This is the worst party ever. Hey, Sadie. Congratulations, I guess.'

Sadie smiles, a bit more amused than she probably should be. 'Thank you, Steven. Very good of you.'

Steven grins, hugs his fellow discoverers, and then wanders off in search of alcohol. As he leaves, he tells Sadie and Nigel that they can go run off and have a great night in the City—he's perfectly capable of schmoozing the guests on his own.

Sadie and Nigel exchange a knowing glance, then go running into the campus courtyard in their formal wear, eventually leaving the press and pomp far behind. They spend the rest of the night at a dance hall, and then strolling, laughing, through Central Park. Sadie kisses Nigel one more time as the day begins to break.

As she walks home, all she can think about is how she wants to see him again.

50-59

After a few good seconds, they're interrupted. By Steven.

'Oh, for the love of God, even Professor Hemsworth's getting some action? I'm the only one who's not? Man, I might as well be at one of my dad's parties. Hey, Sadie. Congratulations, I guess.'

Sadie smiles, a bit more amused than she probably should be. 'Thank you, Steven. Very good of you.'

Steven grins, hugs his fellow discoverers, and then wanders off in search of alcohol. As he leaves, he tells Sadie and Nigel that they can go run off and have a great night in the City—he's perfectly capable of schmoozing the guests on his own.

Sadie and Nigel exchange a knowing glance, then go running into the campus courtyard in their formal wear, eventually leaving the press and pomp far behind.

They spend the rest of the night at a late-night movie and, with one more kiss in the early morning, say good night.

40-49

A flashbulb pops and flares and a gossip reporter shouts, 'Hot Scoop!' - and Nigel and Sadie realize that their romance isn't much of a secret anymore.

'What do you say you and I leave this party to the professionals?' Nigel asks.

He and Sadie run into the campus courtyard in their formal wear, eventually leaving the press far behind. They spend the rest of the night at a late-night movie and leave each other, smiling, before daybreak.

They hardly remember the film, but they do remember having a fantastic evening.

30-39

Sadie and Nigel make summer plans as the night grows darker, but eventually they have to return to the party and spend a few hours entertaining the press and the local socialites. The attention's still suffocating, but they get through it by stealing a few more moments alone.

Right before dawn (and after one more kiss), they leave each other, promising to meet up soon.

20-29

After some more talking, Sadie and Nigel eventually return to the party, where they spend the next few hours entertaining the press and the local socialites. The attention's still suffocating, but they get through it, knowing they have each other's support.

Right before dawn, they both head home, exhausted. Right before dawn (and after one more kiss), they leave each other, promising to meet up soon.

10-19

'Oh, for the love of God, even Professor Hemsworth's getting some action? I'm the only one who's not! This is the worst party ever.'

Sadie and Nigel laugh with Steven and ask him to promise not to leak their relationship to the press. He does, of course, and congratulates the new couple and wishes them the best.

Sadie and Nigel reluctantly follow him in back into the party, being sure to smile at all the cameras and to promote the University whenever possible. The Dean's very pleased with the three discoverers' work.

Even though they all have busy summers planned, they all promise to meet each other again.

0-9

'Hemmy! Sadie! I was wondering where you two went! Whoa! Whoa! I knew you two had something going on. And you, Sadie, said my imagination was too active. Got any cash left for me, kitten?'

Sadie and Nigel laughed with Steven and asked him to promise not to leak their relationship to the press. He did, of course, and congratulated the new couple and wished them the best.

Sadie and Nigel reluctantly followed Steven in back into the party, being sure to smile at all the cameras and to promote the University whenever possible. The Dean was very pleased with the three discoverers' work. Even though they all had busy summers planned, they all promised to meet each other again.

Friendship with Nigel[]

Friendship with Nigel
100

After a flash of light and a gossip reporter proclaiming that he had found a 'Hot Scoop!,' Nigel and Sadie realize that they've been found.

'What do you say you and I leave go somewhere a little more... not here?' Nigel asks.

He and Sadie, after making the proper appearances at the party in front of the University's investors, sneak off back into his office.

Even though they've been there many times before, this time feels different. Now that the school year's behind them, they feel free to talk to each other about everything—from trivialities to big summer plans.

They talk for so long that they're both shocked to walk downstairs and find that the party's already over. As they part in the very early morning, Sadie realizes that Nigel is much more than a professor or even an acquaintance; he's a true friend that she'll forever treasure.

90-99

Sadie smiles back up at Nigel, not wanting to let him go.

'Nigel, promise me we'll keep in touch. Don't forget about me when you're out being a big, powerful professor, all right?'

Nigel jokingly makes Sadie promise the same. The two spend the next few minutes talking about their summer plans before both realizing that they have much better things to do than make appearances at some stodgy party.

They spend the rest of the night at a dance hall and laughing with each other as they stroll through Central Park.

They leave each other, smiling, before daybreak. Even though they both have big summer plans, they promise to see each other soon.

80-89

'I know you're on to bigger and better things,' Nigel says as they hug, 'But promise me you'll save some wacky, dangerous adventures just for me. I'll always be here if you need me.'

Sadie laughs, hugging Nigel one more time. She promises she'll see him as soon as she can. In fact, she has an idea for an immediate adventure!

Laughing, Nigel lets Sadie pull him away from the party. Sadie smiles back at him, knowing what he means.

The two run to the street, catch a cab, and spend the night dancing at New York's finest clubs.

Right before dawn and after one more hug, they leave each other, promising to see each other soon.

70-79

Nigel smiles at Sadie, happy to have a break from the party.

'What a pity to waste such a beautiful night on a bunch of investors and ancient Egyptian knick knacks,' Nigel says to Sadie, 'Especially with you undoubtedly leaving on another adventure soon.'

Sadie smiles back at him, knowing what he means.

The two run to the street, catch a cab, and spend the night dancing at New York's finest clubs.

Right before dawn and after one more hug, they leave each other, promising to see each other soon.

60-69

'I know you're on to bigger and better things,' Nigel says as they hug, 'But promise me you'll save some wacky, dangerous adventures just for me. I'll always be here if you need me.'

Sadie laughs, hugging Nigel one more time. She promises she'll see him as soon as she can.

The two laugh about their many adventures as the night wears on. Even after they're called back inside to the party to entertain the guests, they're still inseparable, always smiling and finishing each other's sentences.

Sadie knows, more than ever, that she'll never feel alone as long as she has Nigel in reach.

50-59

'Hemmy! Blondie! I was wondering where you two went! Ah, is this a group hug? Then I better join in!'

Steven squeezes his fellow discoverers and wishes them well, proclaiming that this was the best year of his life, all thanks to that Egyptian discovery. Then, seeing how much Nigel and Sadie seemed to dislike the party, he suggested that they go run off and have a great night in the City—he's perfectly capable of schmoozing the guests on his own.

Sadie and Nigel laugh and gave Steven one more hug before running into the campus courtyard in their formal wear, eventually leaving the press and pomp far behind. They spend the rest of the night at a movie and leave each other, smiling, before daybreak.

Even though they both have big summer plans, they promise to see each other soon.

40-49

After a flash of light and a gossip reporter proclaiming that he found a 'Hot Scoop!,' Nigel and Sadie realize that they had been found.

'What do you say you and I leave this party to the professionals?' Nigel asks.

He and Sadie ran into the campus courtyard in their formal wear, eventually leaving the press far behind. They spend the rest of the night at a late movie and leave each other, smiling, before daybreak.

Even though they both have big summer plans, they promise to see each other soon.

30-39

Sadie and Nigel excitedly share their summer plans with each other as the night grows even darker. They laugh and reminisce for hours before they return to the party... where they spend the next few hours entertaining the press and the local socialites of the area.

The attention's still suffocating, but they get through it, knowing they have each other's support.

Right before dawn, they both head home, exhausted, promising to see each other again sometime.

20-29

Sadie and Nigel eventually return to the party, where they spend the next few hours entertaining the press and the local socialites of the area. The attention's still suffocating, but they get through it, knowing they had each other's support.

Right before dawn, they both head home, exhausted, promising to see each other again sometime.

10-19

'Hemmy! Blondie! I was wondering where you two went! Ah, is this a group hug? Then I better join in!'

Steven awkwardly squeezes his fellow discoverers and wishes them well, proclaiming that this was the best year of his life and that there are plenty of attractive young socialites who've been asking about either Nigel or Sadie's whereabouts all night.

Sadie and Nigel reluctantly follow Steven in back into the party, being sure to smile at all the cameras and to promote the University whenever possible. The Dean's very pleased with the three discoverers' work.

Even though they all have busy summers planned, they all promise to meet each other again.

0-9

'Hemmy! Sadie! I was wondering where you two went! Ah, is this a group hug? Then I better join in!'

Steven awkwardly squeezed his fellow discoverers and wished them well, proclaiming that this was the best year of his life and that there were plenty of attractive young socialites who had been asking about either Nigel or Sadie's whereabouts all night.

Sadie and Nigel reluctantly followed Steven in back into the party, being sure to smile at all the cameras and to promote the University whenever possible. The Dean was very pleased with the three discoverers' work. Even though they all had busy summers planned, they all promised to meet each other again.

Dream of Ahmose[]

Dream of Ahmose
100

Before Sadie can lean in, Ahmose stops her.

'Allow me,' he says huskily, reaching around to remove Kheper's necklace, his fingers brushing against the sensitive back of her neck. She shivers as he places Kheper in her purse. 'I do not wish to share this... to share you... with anyone right now.'

Those clever fingers behind her neck now draw her in for the slowest, sweetest kiss Sadie has ever tasted. Closing her eyes, she drifts off into it, letting him guide her with his touch into another kiss, then another, then another... They lose track of time as the stars and city sparkle around them, drifting off completely to their kisses. Only the lurking awareness that Aunt Evelyn will worry makes them break apart...eventually.

As Ahmose walks her home, they talk in low, sincere tones about their feelings, about how they've grown to love each other, and how much they look forward to their lives together.

It's only when they reach her aunt's door and whisper a few more sweet nothings to each other that Sadie giggles and teases, 'So, Ahmose, if we're going to be going around the world together, does that mean I'll have to pay for all your travel and living expenses? Last time I checked, you didn't have a job.'

'I already have that under control,' Ahmose says evenly. 'You remember the artifacts you recovered from my tomb?'

'You mean the ones we shipped you back with?' Sadie asks cautiously, remembering the large crates of cargo she hid him in, the ones still left partially unsorted by the museum.

'Yes,' Ahmose shrugs. 'I simply sold them.'

90-99

Before Sadie can lean in, Ahmose stops her.

'Allow me,' he says huskily, reaching around to remove Kheper's necklace, his fingers brushing against the sensitive back of her neck. She shivers as he places Kheper in her purse. 'I do not wish to share this... to share you... with anyone right now.'

Those clever fingers behind her neck now draw her in for the slowest, sweetest kiss Sadie has ever tasted. Closing her eyes, she drifts off into it, letting him guide her with his touch into another kiss, then another, then another... They lose track of time as the stars and city sparkle around them, drifting off completely to their kisses. Only the lurking awareness that Aunt Evelyn will worry makes them break apart...eventually.

As Ahmose walks her home, they talk in low, sincere tones about their feelings, about how they've grown to depend on each other so much and how much they look forward to their lives together. At Aunt Evelyn's door, Ahmose gives her one final kiss, so intense and pure that Sadie almost thinks she's floating into bed.

It seems that things are only getting better and better...

80-89

Before Sadie can lean in, Ahmose stops her.

'Allow me,' he says huskily, reaching around to remove Kheper's necklace, his fingers brushing against the sensitive back of her neck. She shivers as he places Kheper in her purse. 'I do not want any audience for this.'

Those clever fingers behind her neck now draw her in for a slow, sweet kiss that makes Sadie's head whirl in delight. If this was what he kissed like when he was a thousand years out of practice, she thinks the real thing will probably make her head explode! Still, she bravely manages to keep herself together as he kisses her a second time, then a third, then...

They lose track of time as the stars and city sparkle around them, drifting off completely to their kisses. Only the lurking awareness that Aunt Evelyn will worry makes them break apart... eventually.

As Ahmose walks her home, he places his arm around her, and the two talk at length about their feelings and how they've come to care for each other.

At Aunt Evelyn's door, Ahmose gives her one final kiss, so intense and pure that Sadie almost thinks she's floating into bed.

It seems that things are only getting better and better...

70-79

Before Sadie can lean in, Ahmose stops her.

'Allow me,' he says huskily, reaching around to remove Kheper's necklace, his fingers brushing against the sensitive back of her neck. She shivers as he places Kheper in her purse. 'I do not want any audience for this.'

Those clever fingers behind her neck now draw her in for a slow, sweet kiss, making Sadie melt into a little puddle of goo. For a man who hasn't kissed anyone in thousands of years, he certainly seems to have retained his skills.

The first kiss is followed by another, and another, and another, until Sadie's almost breathless.

They stand on the platform until the moon dips well below the horizon, kissing each other and murmuring soft nothings. Eventually, Ahmose offers to walk her home, an offer she gladly accepts.

As they walk, they speak tentatively about their feelings... Ahmose is somewhat new to expressing himself, but he tries, and every soft compliment and endearment is more precious to Sadie than a pharaoh's treasure.

At Evelyn's door, Ahmose says farewell with another kiss, and it takes everything Sadie has not to dance her way into bed.

60-69

The kiss is slow and soft, with surprisingly little clumsiness for someone who's gone thousands of years without kissing a single soul.

Sadie leans into it, savoring it and letting it draw itself out for what seems like an eternity...

Until a certain bug spoils it. 'Okay, good start,' Kheper pipes up. 'Sadie, don't take this the wrong way, but I've thought of some nice romantic endearments you might want to moan.'

Before Sadie can remove the offending scarab, Ahmose stops her. 'Allow me,' he says huskily, reaching around to remove the Kheper-necklace, his fingers brushing against the sensitive back of her neck.

She shivers as he places Kheper in her purse. 'Now, where were we...'

Those clever fingers behind her neck now draw her in for a slow, sweet kiss, making Sadie melt into a little puddle of goo. For a man who hasn't kissed anyone in thousands of years, he certainly seems to have retained his skills.

The kiss is followed by another, and another, and another, until Sadie's almost breathless.

They stand on the platform until the moon dips well below the horizon, kissing each other and looking out over the city together. Eventually, Ahmose offers to walk her home, an offer she gladly accepts.

As they walk, they chat about all sorts of topics, from the events of the past year to Kheper's awkward intrusions. At Evelyn's door, Ahmose says farewell with another kiss, and it takes everything in Sadie not to dance her way into bed.

50-59

The kiss is slow and soft, with surprisingly little clumsiness for someone who's gone thousands of years without kissing a single soul.

Sadie leans into it, savoring it and letting it draw itself out for what seems like an eternity...

Until a certain bug spoils it. 'Okay, now this is just getting awkward,' Kheper pipes up. 'Don't get me wrong, I'm happy to provide a play by play, but I don't know if you'd appreciate that.'

Ahmose glares at the scarab, but Sadie laughs, removes him from her jacket, and tucks him safely in her purse. Eyes sparkling, she turns her face up to Ahmose. 'Now... where were we?'

The former mummy smiles. 'I believe it was somewhere around... here.'

He leans forward and captures her lips in a slow, sweet kiss that makes her melt a little. Apparently some things haven't been forgotten in a thousand years...

The next kiss is better than the second, the one after is even better, and so on.

At last, in the wee hours of the morning, Sadie regretfully breaks away and says she'd better return home. Ahmose, ever the gentleman, offers to walk her home, and they spend the walk in comfortable silence, holding hands like teenagers.

They part with one last kiss at Evelyn's door, and Sadie sighs happily as she falls into bed.

40-49

The kiss is slow and soft, with surprisingly little clumsiness for someone who's gone thousands of years without kissing a single soul.

Sadie leans into it, savoring it and letting it draw itself out for what seems like an eternity...

Until a certain bug spoils it. 'Not to be a spoilsport or anything, but I'm fairly certain that at some point, you'll need to come up for air. Unless you breathe through your nose, and trust me, that always sounds utterly ridiculous.'

Breaking away, Ahmose glares at Kheper. 'Could you not be quiet for at least two minutes more?'

'I forgot we had an audience,' Sadie giggles. Blushing, she removes Kheper's clasp from her jacket and puts him in her purse, where his complaints are muffled by the contents of her bag. 'Now, where were we?'

The second kiss is better than the first, the third even better, and so on.

At last, in the wee hours of the morning, Sadie regretfully breaks away and says she'd better return home. Ahmose, ever the gentleman, offers to walk her home, and they spend the walk in comfortable silence, holding hands like teenagers.

They part with one last kiss at Evelyn's door, and Sadie sighs happily as she falls into bed.

30-39

The kiss is slow and sweet, albeit somewhat clumsy... poor Ahmose is a little out of practice.

Sadie doesn't mind at all, however, and is quite happy to begin the enjoyable task of practicing, when...

A familiar voice from around Sadie's neck clears its throat. 'You know, I realize that I may have played some small part in getting you two to lock lips in this particular time and place, but it's not actually the most private venue in the world.'

Drawing back quickly, Ahmose's eyes flash dark with anger. 'Kheper... Have you ever heard of giving someone privacy?'

'Look, that's my point! I'm stuck on Sadie's clothes! I now know more about your neck than anyone should.'

Laughing, Sadie takes Kheper's clasp off and drops him in her purse. 'There, no Kheper. Issue solved.'

'... I'm afraid the mood has left me somewhat,' Ahmose says, his lips coming dangerously close to an adorable pout.

'Let's see if we can find it again,' Sadie replies with a grin.

Drawing close to him, she rests her head on his shoulder, savoring the warmth of him. He stiffens, clearly unsure of what to do, but after a moment, his arm drifts around to rest on her shoulders.

They stay like that for many hours, watching over the city in a warm, comfortable silence.

Eventually, Sadie regretfully admits that she has to get home. Ahmose accompanies her down the elevator and into a cab... but not before giving her one last kiss that shows his technique is already improving in leaps and bounds.

She returns home with her lips still tingling and slips into bed thinking of the next time they might 'practice.'

20-29

The kiss is slow and sweet, albeit somewhat clumsy... poor Ahmose is a little out of practice.

Sadie doesn't mind at all, however, and is quite happy to begin the enjoyable task of practicing, when...

'Hey, what's going on out... whoa!' yells the scarab at her neck. 'Extreme closeup of Ahmose's neck. I'm sorry to say that this is a view I could have done without. Sadie, could you maybe balance me on your shoulder and lean a little to the left?'

Ahmose's eyes flash dark with anger. 'Kheper, I swear I am going to feed you to the next bird I see.'

Kheper squeaks in fear and shuts up, causing Sadie to laugh. 'Remind me to leave him at home, next time.'

Ahmose snorts. 'Remind me to drop him off the roof next time.'

A slightly awkward silence falls, but Sadie reaches out and takes Ahmose's hand in hers. Smiling, he relaxes a little, squeezing her hand in return. Together, they look out over the city as the stars twinkle in the sky, taking it all in - until, at last, Sadie regretfully has to return home to Aunt Evelyn.

Even as she goes to bed, however, Sadie can still feel the warmth of Ahmose's hand in hers.

10-19

The kiss is slow and sweet, albeit somewhat clumsy... poor Ahmose is a little out of practice.

Sadie doesn't mind at all, however, and is quite happy to begin the enjoyable task of practicing, when...

'Hey, what do you think you're doing?' yells the scarab at her neck.

Kheper's eyes boggle. 'Ahmose, I swear, I've seen ibises kiss better than you. All this trouble to set you guys up and that's what you give me?'

Ahmose's eyes flash dark with anger. 'Kheper...'

Kheper squeaks in fear and shuts up, causing Sadie to laugh. 'Remind me to leave him at home, next time.'

Ahmose snorts. 'Remind me to drop him off the roof next time.'

The mood is broken, but at least the tension is as well, and the two of them stand together, chatting about events of the past year and laughing at some of the more amusing memories as they look out over the city together.

Eventually, as the night wears on, Sadie decides to go home before Aunt Evelyn worries. She squeezes Ahmose's hand as she leaves, promising to see him again soon... without a certain bug!

Hailing a cab, she reaches Evelyn's apartment in the wee hours of the morning, falling into bed with a happy sigh and a giggle.

0-9

'Argh, mummy breath!' Sadie spat in disgust as they parted. 'Your mouth tastes like a 2000 year old crypt.'

'I fear my people had yet to devise breath mints, my lady,' Ahmose retorted, dark eyes flashing. 'Besides, your breath is nothing to speak well of either.'

Annoyed, they broke apart, stomping down to the elevator and promising never to speak of this awkward moment again.

Friendship with Ahmose[]

Friendship with Ahmose
100

'I'm liking the new look, but you might attract a bit more attention than you wanted,' Sadie teases. 'I imagine people are going to wonder why you went up the elevator as a man in bandages and back down the elevator as the prettiest man in New York.'

Ahmose nods, and before Sadie's eyes the familiar bandages and clothing coalesce once more.

'I had already considered that eventuality. It... helps to be flexible. So,' Ahmose says with a grin that's almost playful, 'where to next?'

Sadie sighs. 'In a perfect world, it would be on a trip around the world with you to show you all the places I told you about. In the actual world, I don't know. Summer session's just around the corner, and I imagine I'll have to spend more time in class this year.'

Ahmose raises an eyebrow. 'Yes, I imagine that the rote memorization of dates and places is far more interesting to you than delving deep into ancient temples and finding buried treasure.'

Sadie cocks her head, eyes sparkling. 'Why Ahmose-Ankh, I believe you just made a joke!'

'Did I? I thought I'd made a factual observation,' he replies; it's utterly deadpan, but the twinkle in his eye gives him away.

'How about you, Ahmose-Ankh? What are your plans for the future?'

He sighs. 'Again, in a perfect world, I would go with you on all your adventures and share them with you. But... if you are going to be kept here in New York...' He hesitates, then shrugs. 'This city is certainly grand, but I have had enough of confinement to last seven lifetimes, and I... I wish to travel. To see more of this world. So I suppose that that is my goal.'

Sadie smiles sadly at him. 'I think it's a great idea. I hope I'll be able to join you for at least some of it. And if not... I hope you come back to visit sometime.'

Ahmose looks at her, his gaze serious and warm. 'That, I can promise you. This city has one thing nowhere else in the world does... it has you in it. That alone will keep me coming back.'

'Oh Ahmose, you always say the nicest things,' Sadie smiles, linking her arm in his.

Together, they take the elevator back down to street level and return to Aunt Evelyn's, chatting the whole way about the amazing year behind them and the adventures that still lie before them.

It's only when they reach her aunt's door that something occurs to Sadie. 'Ahmose, not to rain on your parade, but... how will you be able to pay for all this travel you want to do? Heck, what are you going to do for money generally?'

Ahmose says evenly, 'You remember the artifacts you recovered from my tomb?'

'You mean the ones we shipped you back with?' Sadie asks cautiously, remembering the large crates of cargo she'd hidden him in, the ones still left partially unsorted by the museum.

'Yes,' Ahmose says. 'I simply sold them.'

90-99

'I'm liking the new look, but you might attract a bit more attention than you wanted,' Sadie teases. 'I imagine people are going to wonder why you went up the elevator as a man in bandages and back down the elevator as the prettiest man in New York.'

Ahmose nods, and before Sadie's eyes the familiar bandages and clothing coalesce once more.

'I had already considered that eventuality. It... helps to be flexible. So,' Ahmose says with a grin that's almost playful, 'where to next?'

Sadie sighs. 'In a perfect world, it would be on a trip around the world with you to show you all the places I told you about. In the actual world, I don't know. Summer session's just around the corner, and I imagine I'll have to spend more time in class this year.'

Ahmose raises an eyebrow. 'Yes, I imagine that the rote memorization of dates and places is far more interesting to you than delving deep into ancient temples and finding buried treasure.'

Sadie cocks her head, eyes sparkling. 'Why Ahmose-Ankh, I believe you just made a joke!'

'Did I? I thought I'd made a factual observation,' he replies; it's utterly deadpan, but the twinkle in his eye gives him away.

'How about you, Ahmose-Ankh? What are your plans for the future?'

He sighs. 'Again, in a perfect world, I would go with you on all your adventures and share them with you. But... if you are going to be kept here in New York...' He hesitates, then shrugs. 'This city is certainly grand, but I have had enough of confinement to last seven lifetimes, and I... I wish to travel. To see more of this world. So I suppose that that is my goal.'

Sadie smiles sadly at him. 'I think it's a great idea. I hope I'll be able to join you for at least some of it. And if not... I hope you come back to visit sometime.'

Ahmose looks at her, his gaze serious and warm. 'That, I can promise you. This city has one thing nowhere else in the world does... it has you in it. That alone will keep me coming back.'

'Oh Ahmose, you always say the nicest things,' Sadie smiles, linking her arm in his.

Together, they take the elevator back down to street level and return to Aunt Evelyn's, chatting the whole way about the amazing year behind them and the adventures that still lie before them.

80-89

'I'm liking the new look, but you might attract a bit more attention than you wanted,' Sadie teased. 'I imagine people are going to wonder why you went up the elevator as a man in bandages and back down the elevator as the prettiest man in New York.'

Ahmose nods, and before Sadie's eyes the familiar bandages and clothing coalesce once more.

'I had already considered that eventuality. It... helps to be flexible. So,' Ahmose says with a grin that's almost playful, 'where to next?'

Sadie sighs. 'Ideally, it would be on to another dig in another foreign country, but I suppose after this past year, I should spend more time in class. Otherwise, my professors won't want to speak to me.'

Something flashes in Ahmose's eyes, but it's soon smoothed over by a grin under the bandages. 'It occurs to me that if your professors no longer spoke to you, you'd have much more time to go on digs in other countries.'

Sadie cocks her head, eyes sparkling. 'Why, Ahmose-Ankh, was that a joke?'

Ahmose clears his throat. 'Please do not inform Kheper; he may die of shock.'

'What about you, though?' Sadie raises an eyebrow. 'What are you going to do?'

Ahmose's expression becomes wistful. 'I confess, I have spent too long confined. I... I would have liked to go on your adventures with you and see more of the world...'

'...only now I'm going to be cooped up in class. Applesauce.' Sadie sighs, crossing her arms. 'I'm sorry... I don't mean to hold you back.'

Ahmose looks her in the eye, his gaze serious and warm. 'You could never hold me back, Scheherazade. You have given me freedom and purpose. You have let me live a life I never dreamed I could. Whatever my course is next, it will be because of you.'

Touched, Sadie puts a hand on Ahmose's shoulder. 'And whatever my course is, I know we'll always be friends.'

The two walk back to Aunt Evelyn's place, sometimes in comfortable silence, sometimes talking about the amazing events of the past year and their hopes and dreams for the future.

As they part at the door, Sadie promises that they'll see each other again very soon... the bandages gone for good this time. After all... New York still has so much to offer for a man slightly behind the times...

70-79

'I'm liking the new look, but you might attract a bit more attention than you wanted,' Sadie teases. 'I imagine people are going to wonder why you went up the elevator as a man in bandages and back down the elevator as the prettiest man in New York.'

Ahmose nods, and before Sadie's eyes the familiar bandages and clothing coalesce once more.

'I had already considered that eventuality. It... helps to be flexible. So,' Ahmose says with a grin that's almost playful, 'where to next?'

'Well, I'm not sure,' Sadie says. 'Ideally I'd love to head off on another expedition, but summer session looms.'

Under the reformed bandages, Ahmose's eyebrow raises. 'After your experiences, I would have thought any attempt at actual classwork would be academic at best.'

Sadie cocks her head, eyes sparkling. 'Ahmose-Ankh, did I just hear you make a pun?'

He smiles. 'I believe your friendship has slowly corrupted me... I have all these strange new concepts like a 'sense of humor' and other nonsense crowding around in my mind.'

'You'll get used to it,' Sadie replies with a smile. 'What about you? What are your plans?'

Ahmose frowns and considers the question. 'I... have none, at the moment. All I know is that I've spent too long locked away... I wish to see more of the world.'

'You mean, come with me on expeditions?' Sadie asks.

Ahmose shrugs. 'We shall see,' he says, a slight smile curving his lips.

The two take the elevator back down to street level, where Ahmose offers to walk Sadie home.

It's a long trip, but filled with reminiscing over the past year, over all the places Sadie had gone and that she now can share with Ahmose.

After saying goodbye and promising to be in touch soon, Sadie returns to Aunt Evelyn's brimming with possible plans and ideas for her newly liberated mummy friend.

60-69

'I'm liking the new look, but you might attract a bit more attention than you wanted,' Sadie teases. 'I imagine people are going to wonder why you went up the elevator as a man in bandages and back down the elevator as the prettiest man in New York.'

Ahmose nods, and before Sadie's eyes the familiar bandages and clothing coalesce once more.

'I had already considered that eventuality. It... helps to be flexible. So,' Ahmose says with a grin that's almost playful, 'where to next?'

'Well, I'm not sure,' Sadie says. 'Summer session's just around the corner, and I probably should spend some time in the classroom.'

'As opposed to traipsing around the world, getting into no end of trouble?'

Sadie cocked her head. Her eyes sparkled. 'Why, Ahmose-Ankh, was that a joke?'

The former - current? - mummy grinned. 'Well, now Miss Scheherazade, I had thought you would tell me the world is your classroom.'

Sadie laughs. 'That's true. But my professor won't take kindly to another year spent out of class no matter how many international antiquities' thieves I capture or how many all-powerful artifacts I return to safety.'

'Maybe your professor should lighten up,' Ahmose says.

Sadie lets loose a peal of laughter and hooks her arm through Ahmose's as the pair head for the elevator.

'Lighten up, he says,' Sadie giggles. 'Maybe you should teach him that one.'

Back at street level, Ahmose kindly offers to walk her back to Evelyn's apartment; it's a long walk, but it gives them plenty of time to chat, trading quips and jokes like old friends.

At her doorstep, Ahmose bows and promises to keep in touch. Sadie goes to bed, happy for her old friend and eager to see him take on the modern world.

50-59

'I'm liking the new look, but you might attract a bit more attention than you wanted,' Sadie teases. 'I imagine people are going to wonder why you went up the elevator as a man in bandages and back down the elevator as the prettiest man in New York.'

Ahmose nods, and before Sadie's eyes the familiar bandages and clothing coalesce once more.

'I had already considered that eventuality. It... helps to be flexible. So,' Ahmose says with a grin that's almost playful, 'where to next?'

'I have school starting again for summer session,' Sadie sighs. 'I'm afraid my next adventures will have to be turning in papers and listening to lectures.'

'I was under the impression that you should probably be the one giving the lectures at this point.'

Sadie glances at him, eyes twinkling. 'Why, Ahmose-Ankh, was that something close to a joke?'

'No, it was an observation,' he says, but the telltale twitch at the corner of his bandaged mouth gives him away.

'Well, it's probably quite accurate,' Sadie laughs, tugging him into the elevator to return back to street level. 'Unfortunately, I sort of need a degree before I'm allowed to start giving lectures and things.'

'Your system of scholarship seems inefficient. Perhaps you should change it?'

Sadie rolls her eyes, 'Okay, now I know you're joking.'

Smiling, Ahmose nods politely. As they reach the street, they say a warm farewell.

Sadie returns home and slips into bed, thinking of her friend and the strange journey they had together over the past year. With the memory of his bandaged grin - and his earlier, uncovered smile - she goes to sleep happy.

40-49

'I'm liking the new look, but you might attract a bit more attention than you wanted,' Sadie teases. 'I imagine people are going to wonder why you went up the elevator as a man in bandages and back down the elevator as the prettiest man in New York.'

Ahmose nods, and before Sadie's eyes the familiar bandages and clothing coalesce once more.

'I had already considered that eventuality. It... helps to be flexible. So,' Ahmose says with a grin that's almost playful, 'where to next?'

'I have school starting again for summer session,' Sadie sighs. 'I'm afraid my next adventures will have to be turning in papers and listening to lectures.'

'I find it hard to picture you sitting in a chair for long stretches at a time,' says Ahmose.

Sadie arches an eyebrow. 'So, we find the Ruby Eye and Ahmose finds a sense of humor, eh?'

Ahmose shrugs and smiles what's most definitely a playful grin. 'I only speak the truth.'

Sadie laughs. 'You do; it's your defining characteristic.'

The pair walk to the elevator as the moon dips below the horizon. 'And what's next for you, Ahmose-Ankh?'

'I don't know yet,' he says, 'but I hope wherever I find myself, I can count you as a friend.'

Sadie punches him lightly on the arm. 'As if you even have to say it.'

He smiles and bows gracefully in farewell as they part in the street. Sadie heads home with a smile on her face, slipping into bed and thinking that somewhere, out in the city, is a friend she can count on.

30-39

'I'm liking the new look, but you might attract a bit more attention than you wanted,' Sadie teases. 'I imagine people are going to wonder why you went up the elevator as a man in bandages and back down the elevator as the prettiest man in New York.'

Ahmose nods, and before Sadie's eyes the familiar bandages and clothing coalesce once more.

'I had already considered that eventuality. It... helps to be flexible. So,' Ahmose says with a grin that's almost playful, 'where to next?'

'I have school starting again for the summer session,' Sadie says. 'I'm afraid my next adventures will have to be turning in papers and listening to lectures.'

'That sounds like it would be difficult for you….being cooped up in a classroom, I mean,' says Ahmose.

Sadie laughs. 'You can say that again. But, I can't traipse about the world, having adventures every day, can I?'

Ahmose shakes his head. 'No, but somehow I have the feeling that won't stop you from trying.'

'Ah, Ahmose, old friend, you know me too well.' The pair walk to the elevator as the moon dips below the horizon. 'And what's next for you?'

Ahmose strolls with his hands in his pockets. 'I'm not certain yet. But I will keep in touch.'

'You'd better,' Sadie says with a small smile. 'You're the only mummy I know.'

Ahmose smiles and bows in farewell as they reach the street.

Sadie returns home and slips into bed, happy that somewhere out there there's a mummy she can count on.

20-29

'I'm liking the new look, but you might attract a bit more attention than you wanted,' Sadie teases. 'I imagine people are going to wonder why you went up the elevator as a man in bandages and back down the elevator as the prettiest man in New York.'

Ahmose nods, and before Sadie's eyes the familiar bandages and clothing coalesce once more.

'I had already considered that eventuality. It... helps to be flexible. So,' Ahmose says with a grin that's almost playful, 'where to next?'

'I have school starting again way too soon,' Sadie sighs. 'I'm afraid my next adventures will have to be turning in papers and listening to lectures.'

Ahmose nods and turns his gaze to the sparkling city before them. 'That's too bad.'

'Yep.'

There's a silence. The wind whistles over the Chrysler Building and the two people standing alone on the deck.

'Well, Scheherazade,' says Ahmose, 'it has been... interesting. And a pleasure.'

'You can say that again,' Sadie says. 'Come on. It's almost dawn. I don't know about you, but I need a few winks.'

'Of course.'

The two walk silently to the elevator and ride down as the moon dips beneath the horizon.

They part at the bottom with a smile and a promise to stay in touch. Sadie makes her way home to Aunt Evelyn's place, happy for Ahmose yet somewhat bittersweet at the same time.

The memories of him, stalwart and bandaged and utterly bemused, flit through her mind, and she wonders what the future will hold for him... and for their friendship.

10-19

'I'm liking the new look, but you might attract a bit more attention than you wanted,' Sadie teases. 'I imagine people are going to wonder why you went up the elevator as a man in bandages and back down the elevator as the prettiest man in New York.'

Ahmose nods, and before Sadie's eyes the familiar bandages and clothing coalesce once more.

'I had already considered that eventuality. It... helps to be flexible. So,' Ahmose says with a grin that's almost playful, 'where to next?'

Sadie shuffles her feet. She can't quite meet Ahmose's eyes.

'Oh, well, um…I'm not sure. I have to consult with my professor. School will be starting soon…and I need to visit Aunt Evelyn…'

Ahmose's lips turn down in his familiar grimace. 'I see.'

'I'm sorry,' Sadie says quickly. 'That came out wrong. I don't mean to sound cold or anything...'

'But you have your own life.' The corners of his lips twitch slightly, though Sadie can't tell if it's a smile or a frown. 'I understand.'

Sadie smiles. 'It's been…fun, Ahmose.'

'Agreed.' Ahmose says. He bows shortly. 'It's been a pleasure, Scheherazade.'

Sadie breathes a silent sigh of relief. 'Likewise, Ahmose, old pal. Friends?'

'Of course.'

They shake hands and head for the elevator.

Above, the stars are cold and silent, but glittering brightly like a splash of diamonds across the black velvet sky.

Sadie returns to Aunt Evelyn's apartment with somewhat bittersweet feelings, happy for her friend but remembering a stubborn, taciturn man in bandages... and wondering what things will be like now the bandages are off.

0-9

'Wait, you can't look like a normal person now, Ahmose!' Sadie cried. 'The artwork specifically shows you in bandages. I'm sorry, you're going to have to do something about that.'

Ahmose raised an eyebrow. 'And what do you suggest, Miss Scheherazade?'

'Well, I suppose you could get horribly injured in some darkly comedic way and have to be bandaged right up. That's how it works in the movies, at any rate.'

Ahmose glared at her. 'You are a very strange girl, Miss Scheherazade.'

She grinned back at him. 'And you wouldn't have me any other way.'

Trivia[]

  • All of the characters' 100 Dream and Friendship endings end in the same 'negative twist', except Nigel; only his 100 Dream ending has a 'negative twist', making his 100 Friendship ending the most positive 100 ending of all the characters. Even then, his 'negative twist' is the least negative of all of the characters, making Nigel have the most positive 100 endings.
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