Progenitor

Progenitor (Chapter 4)

Chapter 4: Dante

When I took this job, they didn't say I would be running the show. I mean, who am I to run anything? Let alone a security job. I'm a pilot by trade, security isn't the highest thing on my list of priorities usually.

Contrary to popular belief, security is a hell of a lot harder than it looks. Especially running it.

It's writing watch bills. Making sure people show up for those watches. Making sure people don't dirt bag the job during those watches that I made sure they weren't late for.

See what I mean?

It's getting woken up in the wee hours of the morning over something dumb because the new guy doesn't know what to do about a problem.

I usually run on a mixture of carbs, caffeine, and sugar to get me through the day. Tack on the responsibility of managing Ethan Blake and you have yourself a wonderful cocktail that's sure to give you a daily migraine.

He's always so angry and bitter. I mean I get it; this isn't a place anyone really chooses to go. Unless you're me. Not to mention the whole situation that went down that led him here.

It's crazy to think about.

A whole ship full of people just ghosted by the Sekrid without warning. And then they make Ethan take the fall for it. Why they didn't just execute him is beyond me, but the fact still remains that he's my responsibility.

I'm pulled from my thoughts by a blinking light on my monitor, signaling an incoming call. I tap the answer button on the display, causing the face of Dr. Cain to appear.

These chats between us have been occurring almost daily since Blake got here.

"Good morning, Dante,"

"What can I do for you, doctor?" I ask with a sigh.

"Oh, come now Mr. Hall, don't be so glum. Today is a new day, which means there's more progress to be made," She replies with a wide smile and a cheery tone, causing an involuntary eye roll from my end.

"So," Dr. Cain starts

. "Here it comes,"

"Update me on Blake,"

"There's not really much to update. He does his job, eats, sleeps, repeats. Is there something you're looking for?" I explain.

Dr Cain's expression turns to a grimace. "No, not particularly. Am I wrong for wanting to keep tabs on a criminal who's placed on my ship?"

I shrug "I guess not. But why don't you just leave him to me. He's fine. And you know I'm more than capable of keeping him in line,"

"How long have you been with me again, Dante?" Cain asks. I think for a moment. "Two years about, I think," "I suppose that's enough time for me to allow a little trust on my end. Fine. But don't mess this up, Dante. I don't like being unhappy,"

Dr. Cain has a knack for talking to people as if they're children. While incredibly intelligent, I'm inclined to believe she thinks she's a mega-mind among others.

"Won't let you down, doctor. Scout's honor,"

"That's my good boy," She says as she hangs up.

I immediately let out a disgusted cringe.

"I hate when she says that,"

I give a glance to my watch and see that it's time to start the day. Springing from my chair, I walk out of my office and down the hall, opening the door to mine and my new roommate's quarters.