Early that day, I needed to pay a visit to my brother, who had decided to live a more human life.
"Mr. Whitlock, the director will see you now," the assistant said, her voice professional but with a hint of admiration.
"Thank you, darling," I smiled, noticing the way she looked at me. I had no time for small talk , I was here for business. Maybe another time.
As I was directed to the director's office, I opened the door and saw Rogers seated at his desk. He looked older than the last time I saw him.
"Well, young brother, how are you holding up?" I asked, a smile tugging at my lips.
"Oh, you have no idea," he replied with a chuckle.
We hugged. It was nice to be around some family for once. When I converted Rogers, he decided to live a human life. His age sped up compared to us, so he would reach a certain age and remain there for another hundred years. He still looked good for 105 years, and it was convenient for him and his job.
"You haven't aged a day, big brother. I haven't even seen a grey hair yet," he laughed.
"Well, you know me, I'm just the one with the better genes," I grinned, showing a sense of pride.
"But how is home? Is Santiago as nosy as I remember him?" he chuckled.
"Worse, since the news spread of new converts killing."
"I had a feeling… But Seb, this one is really good at covering their tracks but at the same time reckless. I have my best detective on this case, and I assure you we will take him down."
"And this detective of yours, are they aware of what they are dealing with?"
"Not even close. But what happens if civilians catch on that this isn't some crazy psychopath but another form of life they can't comprehend? Then what?"
"Brother, there is no 'what if'. We will make sure it doesn't reach that extent."
"Okay, I will push my team to ensure that doesn't happen."
"Thank you."
"Well… any signs of the powers showing up?" I asked with concern.
"No… I think they are dormant. But I'm holding up okay," he sighed.
"You do know that your body does catch up with ageing and it is one of the most painful ways to die. What if I just supply you some of the meds and then…"
"No… you did enough 100 years ago and for that I am thankful. It's my decision, like the way you decided not to have kids. So, brother, let it be."
I understood. He always felt indebted to me because I saved his life, so there was no changing his mind. I left his office, deep in thought about all the previous converts over the years who had the guts to do such things. I feared this might cause a rebellion… and how I love a good rebellion. I lack mercy for those who cross the fine line of humanity. Lost in my thoughts, I bumped into a young lady carrying a stack of filled papers. She had an innocent look I knew too well.
"Oh, I'm sorry. I wasn't looking where I was going."
"No, it is okay. I was lost in my own thoughts. Forgive me," I said, helping her pick up the papers.
"Thank you," she smiled.
"Well then, take care."
The encounter felt like déjà vu, reminding me of memories I had buried deep, memories I didn't have the strength to dig up because I chose to remove myself from the picture. It was one of the most painful things I have done in my life.