Chapter 23
“The countdown to thawing begins.”
The cold, mechanical voice of the electronic system echoed, causing everyone’s hearts to tighten with anticipation.
“I heard the person being thawed this time is the major shareholder of our cryogenic base. Many of our research facilities and cryo–casket storage units were funded by
him.”
“That’s right! I heard that before he was frozen, he was a billionaire. But because his lover was diagnosed with an incurable disease, he chose to freeze himself to stay with her.”
“So rich and devoted–what a perfect man! His lover is incredibly lucky!”
The new lab technicians whispered among themselves. Over the past 50 years, the love story of Murphy and Gemma, the cryogenic base’s greatest benefactors, had spread widely throughout the facility.
In the retelling of their tale, some details were lost, but the core of their story–a love so genuine it spanned half a century–had touched countless hearts.
“Five! Four! Three! Two… One! Beginning the thawing process!”
As the countdown ended, the machinery roared to life, releasing a powerful blast of white gas onto Murphy’s and Gemma’s cryo–caskets. Moments later, a blue glow illuminated the room as the ice within the caskets melted instantaneously.
For the first time in 50 years, Murphy and Gemma slowly opened their eyes.
Gemma’s gaze was dazed and unfocused as she awakened.
What was going on?
Had she not been frozen? Why was she awake now?
Since she lost consciousness the moment she was frozen, Gemma’s memory remained suspended at that exact point 50 years earlier. To her, it felt as though she had just been frozen and immediately awakened.
1/3
Chapter 23
+25 Bonus
A staff member approached her quickly, asking in concern, “Ms. Kirk, how are you feeling? Are you feeling dizzy or nauseous? Don’t worry; it’s normal to experience these symptoms after thawing.
“If you feel like vomiting, go ahead. Here’s a vomit bag, some water, and a towel. If you need anything else, just let us know.”
Gemma stared blankly, trying to make sense of the situation. “Thawing? Didn’t I tell Andrea not to thaw me?”
Before the staff could respond, a familiar male voice spoke from behind her.
“Gemma.”
Even after decades, Gemma recognized the voice immediately.
“U–Uncle Murphy?!”
She
spun around abruptly, her face filled with disbelief as she looked behind her. Standing there, gazing at her with deep affection, was Murphy.
Murphy had just stepped out of his cryo–casket. His hair was damp, and his body still emitted traces of residual cold, but none of that mattered to him.
Florence is a passionate reader who finds joy in long drives on rainy days. She’s also a fan of Italian makeup tutorials, blending beauty and elegance into her everyday life.
