Coming into Being

 

"I will ask you only once if this is what you want. You know there is no turning back. No one ever leaves the Cartel without a great deal of difficulty. Also, you cannot do this for me. It must be a decision you make for yourself." His words reverberated through me as I sat opposite, hands pressed to my thighs to stop them from trembling.

"I understand."

"Do you, really?"

"Yes!" I lifted my head, eyes fixed on his. He smirked, and I recognized that my outburst was unbecoming. "Yes," I said again, softer, more reserved.

"Very well. You will benefit the Salvation core. You are clever and able to achieve things no one has before. With time, who knows? Maybe I'll retire and let you take over from me." The wry chuckle had my lips quirking into a smile.

"Who knows, indeed."