Chapter 97

Professor Ross made some coffee for himself and his unusual guest as they prepared to discuss their project.

They were sitting face to face with a long, oblong table between them. The professor began questioning why Coen is willing to offer his services and confirming if he is sure about his decisions.

He explained a brief description of his intentions and explicitly told Coen about the 'dangers' that might arrive.

He also went on hinting about his suspicions about Coen being a mole or spy to jeopardize his project, but was immediately denied.

"I have no intention to get in the way of your project or whatever you are attempting to accomplish," Coen said. "By all means, please do so with all your heart. I will be only serving you in any way possible during the process until it is over."

"You're interested in the drugs I was trying to make?" Professor Ross asked.

"Maybe."

Toren was only listening and observing from quite a distance, just enough to hear their conversation.

For longer hours than the usual formal meetings, the two of them discussed everything regarding the said project.

Both of them seem somehow hesitant of one another, but quite determined at the same time to accomplish what they have started.

Professor Ross handed out the contract which was supposed to be signed after a few days, but Coen willfully put on his signature right that moment.

When their meeting had been concluded, Coen collected his things along with the documents and went out of his way.

Toren was about to go ahead and follow his brother too, but was stopped with a voice.

"You should take a seat over here," The professor said, clearly talking to him. "Can you spare me some minutes?"

Toren quickly looked back, utterly aghast of the man's ability to see him. It was not the first time it happened, but every time it did, Toren could not get used to it.

He was much comfortable with the world ignoring him and passing through him, only hoping for a single person to recognize him. No one but his brother.

That was the reason why a stranger's recognition felt like a bomb to him. "H-How can you see me?" Toren whisperingly asked.

Professor Ross kindly offered a seat to the specter and politely greeted him with welcoming remarks. He also collected the coffee mugs and put them away.

"Back then, I was quite a clueless child in front of you," He began. "But now that I have understood things, I can deal with you with a bit more... care."

Toren sat across him, curiously gazing at the scientist before him.

He tried observing him and making something out of it, but only a few details came across him clearly.

He slanted his eyes with a baffled look while deciphering the words of the man.

"Don't you remember me?" The professor went on to ask.