Genetic Perfection ( Repo! the Genetic Opera Fanfiction)

Caution

Chapter 15: Caution

"Breaking news: Malta Augustine, the Angel of Gene.co, was spotted leaving the Romano building this morning, sparking speculation that the company may be releasing new artistic content". The news broadcast caught my attention, even though I wasn't one to watch the news. The television had been left on in Luigi's... I mean, our apartment

To my surprise, a picture of me appeared on the screen, captured while I was leaving the Romano building. It was a surreal moment, going from hiding in the shadows to being exposed by the paparazzi.

"Let's hope it's not something in the adult entertainment department. We can only imagine the chaos, although I wouldn't mind seeing her... " another news reader commented before being interrupted.

"Surely not. The Romanovs have discovered a rising star," the news broadcaster politely interjected, before moving on to other news.

It was an odd sensation to see myself being discussed on television. Stranger still, that people would be interested in my life. Did they genuinely care about my image? Was I truly seen as the angel of Gene.co? considering the rest of the members were in one way or another harmful to mankind maybe I was?

I walked away from the living room, my feet leading me to the balcony where Luigi had revealed his humanity to me. Looking out over the city, I observed the bustling lives of people. I dreamed of a world where body parts weren't rented and everyone could live without fear of the repo man. Could I help the Romanos make this dream a reality by taking over Gene.co?

Glancing at the Romano building, I realized it was smaller than Gene.co but equally impressive. Despite living in this city for so long, I had never truly paid attention to the other buildings. Gene.co was the infamous eyesore in everyone's lives.

Taking in a deep breath, the cold air sent a shiver through my lungs. I felt the urge for more zydrate. I had managed to stay clean for a whole month, but in the past week, it seemed as though I was being forced back into its grip. The craving grew stronger with each passing moment. Counting the hours since my last hit was a sign that I was slipping.

"Miss Augustine," a soft voice called from behind me. I turned to find one of Pavi's assistants standing in the doorway, hesitating to approach.

"Yes," I replied with a smile, trying to ease her discomfort.

"Please come with me. Pavi has requested your presence," she said, avoiding eye contact.

Something didn't feel right about this situation. But maybe it was an opportunity to uncover something useful about Gene.co.

"Of course," I said, maintaining my smile. Whatever the circumstances, it wasn't this girl's fault. She couldn't be much older than 19, and perhaps she was doing this job to support her family. It was a better alternative to working at the Knife.

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I trailed after the gentern as we exited the apartment and entered the towering Gene.Co building. As we made our way through the corridors and elevators, she maintained a purposeful stride, a clear intent to deliver me to her unsettling boss.

The elevator doors slid open, revealing a dimly lit corridor that immediately sent butterflies fluttering in my stomach. Something felt off about this place. How deep underground were we? The gentern pressed the button for B10, indicating that we were ten floors below the surface.

"We're here," she murmured, her voice still timid and reserved. She was aware of what awaited me, that was certain.

"Where are we?" I inquired, but she remained silent, continuing to lead me down the hallway.