"Semi-Short Stories" [ Story Collection ]

Only One Way [] 8/14 []

"So he has a scar. What does this prove?" Raphael, seated in his desk chair, holds Matthew's hand in his own, palm facing up. Michael is standing on the other side of the desk. His arms are crossed over his chest, not lying flat due to his badge.

"That something happened. Why else would it be there? Cosmetic reasons?" Michael rolls his eyes, widening them questioningly at his brother. Raphael doesn't look entirely convinced just yet.

"But what happened?"

"I sold my soul."

A smile. "What really happened?"

"I sold my soul so that I would be eligible to father the antichrist."

The room is silent. That's something Michael didn't know, which explains why he looks surprised. Raphael looks like he's either going to laugh or cry.

"Can you prove that?"

"No, but Lucifer can prove it if you'd like to meet him."

Raphael stands, slowly. He places both hands on his desk now, his body hunched over slightly. "Get out of my office. Both of you."

"Raphael, please-"

"Our sister is potentially in danger, and you're over here telling me that the fucking devil is behind all of this. If you're not going to take my work seriously, then you're no longer welcome in this office."

"That's ridiculous! The last time I checked, I was Chief of police. Not you. You're only here because I allow you to be here. And I know what the hell I'm talking about."

This makes him angry. Lifting and slamming his hands back down onto the desk, Raphael raises his voice loud enough for it to be heard from the nearby offices. "Get the hell out of my office, Michael! Now!"

Though he certainly would like to, Michael doesn't argue. He ushers Matthew out of the room and calmly closes the door behind them both. Raphael is left alone, seething. He truly doesn't understand why Michael isn't taking this seriously.