"How can you be sure this procedure is going to work?" the warden asked Dr. Baines.

"Through our experiments with rats, the computer data...our worm will eviscerate all trace of the crimes he committed and the impulse that prompted them. All he will remember is who he is. The worm can rehabilitate the worst offenders. Make them

law-abiding citizens."

The warden shook his head. How had the parole board allowed themselves to be talked into this experiment. Inserting an electronic device called a worm, playing with a man's mind, and expecting no repercussions? The whole idea was as insane as Pinski himself.

Jacob moaned and began to move about on the table.

"Just relax, Jacob," said the doctor, "Let the worm do its work."

Jacob shook his head. He didn't remember a worm, but he could feel it. Slithering between his brain and his skull. Jacob opened his mouth to ask what work, but he heard no words. His mind felt like it was clawing its way through a cotton ball. He willed his mind to relax and let his body go slack.

The warden studied Pinski. This murder and rapist was being cleansed of his sins. Could it actually be that easy to rehabilitate habitual offenders? He hoped so, because they would be playing God when they released this killer back into society.

Jacob stirred again, trying to shake free from the thickness that enveloped his mind. The worm. Did it work, he wondered.

"What about the worm?" asked the doctor.

Jacob opened his eyes. He must have spoken out loud.

"The worm...I felt it," said Jacob.

"Impossible. You can't feel the worm once its inserted into your brain."

"Oh," said Jacob, but the worm kept niggling away at his brain. At least he thought it did.

Looking past the doctor, Jacob saw Warden Pease. He didn't look pleased.

"We'll be placing you on parole in the morning, Jacob," said the warden.

"You're letting me leave? Just like that?"

"Dr. Baines has a few tests to run tonight, but, yes, you will be released in the morning. Of course, you will be on a limited parole. You will also be required to report back here once a week for check-ups with the doctor. Is that understood?"

"Yes, sir."

As the prison gates swung shut behind him the next morning, Jacob felt the worm vibrate in his head. He smiled. The worm knew who he was.

A tingly feeling pulsed through his mind and flowed unchecked through his body. He remembered Emily. She had smelled of roses and orange blossoms. And tasted of tears and blood. The worm had worked perfectly. Jacob Pinski knew exactly who he was.