under my wing (septiplier fluff)

[9] The Escape

"So, Mark.. You're saying that you would like Jack to come and live with you?"

The hospital chief tapped his fingers against his desk delicately as he waited for a reply from Jack and Mark. He stared at them with curious intent, knowing very well the answer to his question but still enjoying the nervous energy that bounced off the two boys.

Mark and Jack stared back at him, their hands fidgeting nervously by their sides. They were currently in the chief's office discussing the future of Jack. Mark had just finished explaining his grand plan and they were now awaiting confirmation to let his plan go ahead. 

The two of them were both painfully aware that there was a suspicious number of staff members joining them inside the office during their meeting.

Mark was the one to answer, giving a sheepish nod as he stood before the chief's rustic office desk. He dearly hoped that the chief would allow Jack to stay with him, that his plan had been convincing enough. Mark had everything planned out and ready to go.

Getting the chief's permission was simply the last step in his plan.

But the chief's face was neutral, making it difficult for Mark to tell what he was thinking. The staff members surrounding him were exchanging uncertain glances. Mark couldn't help but feel nervous.

Finally, the chief spoke. "Please, allow a minute for my staff and I to discuss this."

The staff members huddled into a circle and whispered to each other. As they quietly spoke Mark could've sworn he heard them mutter 'the plan' and 'test subject.'

Jack, who was standing awkwardly by Mark's side, exhaled loudly. Morning light filtered in through the windows and illuminated the two boys and all eight staff members in the chief's office. Mark couldn't help but think that it was a bit crowded but he dared not complain - He did not want to risk his chances of his plan being rejected.

Finally they all turned back to them in perfect unison. Mark tensed, anticipating for the chief's response. Please say yes, he silently prayed.

Sadly his prayers were not answered. 

"I'm sorry, I'm afraid we cannot allow that."

Mark felt his heart drop. 

"What?" He swallowed. "Sir, may I ask why?"

What he said next was not the response Mark was expecting to hear.

"You see..." The chief sighed, staring down at the papers on his desk to avoid eye contact with Mark. "We believe Jack's condition is still too unstable. He will have to stay here for a while longer so that we can ensure that he fully recovers."

Without looking, Mark heard Jack gasp loudly.

"Too unstable!?" Jack scoffed. The disbelief in his voice thickened the atmosphere in the room, enough for Mark to feel like he was suffocating. He wanted to tell Jack to remain professional in front of the staff in fear of ruining their one chance to leave together.

But it was no use. Jack was already fired up.

"Are you fookin' kidding me? I feel completely fine. As healthy as a blossom. I haven't had a single nightmare for weeks. If I have to be kept in that room any longer I think I might just go insane. I don't even remember the last time I was outside!"

Mark clenched his fists angrily, ready to show his support for Jack.

"Yeah, this doesn't make sense." He argued. "We've been here for ages. His condition seems pretty fine to me."