Nanite Time

"We're ready," you say to Dr. Tanaka. The words feel both monumental and simple. "Transform us."

Dr. Tanaka nods once, her enhanced features professionally composed. "The nanite solution needs to be administered intravenously. I'll set up the medical pods now." She moves to two large metallic cases she'd brought in earlier, opening them to reveal what look like sophisticated medical recliners with integrated monitoring systems.

Morgan's hand finds yours again, their grip tight. "Jordan," they whisper, "I love you. Whatever we become, remember that started this because I love you."

"I love you too," you reply. "And I want you to have me. All of me."

Dr. Tanaka gestures to the pods. "If you'll each take a seat. The process is straightforward. I'll administer the nanite solution, you'll fall asleep within two minutes, and you'll wake up six hours later in your new bodies. Your clothes will need to be removed—the nanites work more efficiently with direct skin contact throughout."

You both undress, your aged bodies exposed in the afternoon light streaming through the windows. Sixty-eight and seventy-three years of living, written in every sag and spot and scar. Morgan catches your eye and smiles—sad, excited, terrified.

"Last chance to modify anything," Dr. Tanaka says as she prepares two IV lines. "Once I start the infusion, the specifications are locked."

"No changes," Morgan says firmly. "We want exactly what Jordan designed."

You settle into the pods. The material is warm, conforming to your body. Dr. Tanaka moves between you with practiced efficiency, inserting the IV lines with barely a pinch. She taps commands into her tablet, and you hear a soft hum as the systems activate.

"The nanites are silver-based," she explains. "You'll feel a coolness spreading from the injection site. Don't fight it. Just let yourself drift." She looks between you both. "When you wake up, you'll be streaming live. The cameras activate the moment your new bodies achieve consciousness. The studio wanted me to remind you of that."

Morgan reaches out, and you stretch to grasp their hand between the pods. The coolness starts, spreading up your arm like liquid starlight.

"See you on the other side," Morgan whispers, their voice already drowsy.

The coolness reaches your chest, your throat. Your vision begins to blur at the edges. The last thing you see is Dr. Tanaka monitoring her screens, and then—

Nothing.