Danger Kid

Chapter 21

 "So what's the deal? Want to congratulate me? Wish me luck on probably the biggest assignment I've ever had? Apologize for your years of sadistic treatment towards me? Whatever it is, make it quick, because I have to get going. Duty calls, Smith."

I'm standing in Smith's office, moments before what could be the most significant moment in my career ever. I'm desperately eager to find Tag, who I am extremely confident is at the location Ronald gave us. It's hard for me not drench my voice with disdain, because I want to be preparing and celebrating for my adventure rather than talking to my arch nemesis. Smith answers my snark with a cold, wicked smile. He clearly feels at home in his office.

I hate it. His smile is so full of spite and malice, that I'm shocked it's not oozing from between his tightly closed lips as rivulets of drool. Well, it's not anything out of the usual, this demonstration of affection from Smith. Except for one thing. His face is also very content, as if he's quietly laughing at a joke that I don't understand. Apparently this is the first time he's been happy to call me to his office.

"I'm waiting." I urge, wanting this to be quick. However, he takes his time, popping his fingers one by one. Finally, he speaks.

"Adam, I know you'd never ask me to explain to you why I hate you. So I thought I'd take this opportunity to make it very clear."

"Ooh, not exactly the sentiment I was hoping for, Smith. But I'm all ears. For about thirty seconds."

He laughs about whatever it is that he knows that I don't.

"I think you have a bit more time than you think. But fine, let me make this as quick as possible. Here we go. You see, I hate you because, believe it or not, you have potential. Every human does. But even more so than humans, deviants have potential. It would be blind of me to suggest otherwise. The problem is, you squander your potential. You think you're such hot stuff, and you take nothing seriously. Not the organization that pays you, not the superiors with years more experience than you, not even your fellow coworkers. All you worry about is getting your kicks in combat, and then schmucking around doing whatever it is you do."

"You are correct sir. Anything else?"

"Yes, the worst part. Despite your lack of respect, you have managed to happen upon a career changing assignment that could boost you and Brayan up into levels of prestige that you'll never actually merit. Now, I have realized I made one error. I misjudged Brayan. I thought he was as much of an idiot as you. I was also prone to hate him since he is dating Krystal. However, I have seen that he truly loves my daughter. Brayan is a very capable agent. He's just being held back by you. So, I have called you here to inform you that, well Brayan will be joining Krystal and Amber on the case, you will be staying behind."

I look around, amused, looking for a hidden prank camera.

"Cane's still assigned as my boss. You can't tell me what to do."

"Actually, yes I can." He says, and somehow I suspect that he's about to turn the tables on me. My stomach starts to feel gross, and my brain starts getting angry. The Call begins to rattle in its cage.

"You see, Adam, Cane is still your boss. Some reason he likes you. But as when I was your boss, he still has to abide by certain rules as did you. As do you." He stares at me, his grin almost quivering with hidden delight.

"Alright, spit it out Smith. It doesn't suit a man of your age to look so smug."

"Alright, I can't hold back any longer," He pauses "Wait, maybe I can."

He closes his eyes, and begins to do a drum roll on the desk.

"Screw it Smith! Tell me now or I'm leaving!"