The bootstrap paradox

“Apparently, by tomorrow night, Dexter disappears in a bright yellow light in full view of thousands of onlookers. Not even a trace of him could be found. Scientists were especially confused because even his atoms disappeared.”

“Which would be impossible,” continued Sophie, light shining in her eyes, “unless…”

“You brought him back to the future!” Cheered Carol, shaking both of Sophie’s hands.

“Wait, so Google- sorry, Elgoog, has already noted something you two have yet to do? Is time like a loop or something?” Asked Cindy in confusion.

Sophie grabbed her chin in thought. “I can only guess, but I think that we can’t alter the past. Any change we would’ve made was always supposed to be like that. A case of the bootstrap paradox.”

“The what?” Karen tilted her head in confusion.

“It’s a whole thing. The important thing is that I can take Dexter with me!”

“If he wants to, that is.” Added Karen.

Sophie looked in expectation. “Dexter, do you-?”

“YES!” Shouted Dexter as he hugged Sophie, before regaining his composure. “Sorry, but yes, I’d love to. There is nothing here for me anyway, save for a classroom of bullies and an ass of a brother.”

“Is there anything you want to do now that you’re still in 2023?” Asked Karen.

A sly grin formed on Dexter’s face. “Why yes. I’d like to pull one over on Frank. And I could use the four of you, if you are okay with it.”