The Second Attempt
Steve read the report twice.
Then a third time.
Each reading made it worse.
Not because the information changed.
Because it didn't.
The truth remained the same.
Richard had given up waiting.
The poison wasn't working fast enough.
Now he wanted Steve dead immediately.
A strange calm settled over him.
Not fear.
Not panic.
Acceptance.
Mr. Tom noticed.
And hated it.
"Say something."
Steve closed the file.
"What would you like me to say?"
"That you're taking this seriously."
A faint smile appeared.
"I am."
"No."
Mr. Tom slammed both palms onto the desk.
The rare display of emotion stunned Steve.
"You're accepting it."
The room fell silent.
For a moment neither spoke.
Then Steve stood and wal
