"And you exceeded every expectation," Elena said. "You survived a serum dose that should have killed you. You controlled powers that should have driven you feral. You displayed strength, speed, and healing that surpassed anything the program had ever achieved."

"Because I'm their weapon," I said hollowly. "I'm exactly what they were trying to create."

"No." Elena moved closer, and this time I didn't back away. "You're not a weapon, Maya. You're my daughter. You're a person with thoughts and ...