by R J Sorrento
Despite learning from a callous lawyer that Declan had left his entire estate to him, Ted had never felt more alone after his uncle’s murder. The money didn’t cure loneliness. Drowning in grief and unable to concentrate on his current project, Ted had taken a break from staring at his notes. He went for a walk, carrying his usual briefcase of syringes and other research supplies.
On his walk, he saw young people enjoying a concert on the beach. The music was electronic, modern, not to his liking. Watching people have fun made him realize that happiness was still possible.
He scanned the crowd. At 40, the young people all appeared the same, boisterous and reckless. He stopped on a dark-haired young man and a girl who looked to be his sister. They gave off an exotic air and Ted was fond of them immediately. He wanted to befriend them. No illicit intentions, sex had never been of interest to him. He was just in dire need of friendship. Perhaps, he could be their mentor, emulating his uncle. Sitting on a bench, he pulled out two syringes. He filled the tranquilizers and sauntered over to the unsuspecting Spaniards.
A knock at his office door dragged Ted to the present moment.
“Yes?”
“Dr. Almighty? I was wondering if you needed my help tonight.” Rita stood at the doorway. “It looks like you were heading out.”
Ted turned to Rita. “Well, yes, I am heading out tonight.”
“To find Cal Bolden?” Rita asked. “I’d be more than happy to help you on this mission.”
Ted smiled. If only Funesto and Magenta shared Rita’s enthusiasm. He longed for the days when the three of them spent quality time together, recruiting or studying academics.
“I appreciate the offer, Rita, but I must make this trip alone. I do not want him to feel threatened.”
Rita gave a pleased smile. Ted didn’t mind if she knew that he considered her to be intimidating.
“I wish to introduce myself,” he continued. “He left before I had the opportunity. There is much potential in Cal.”
Rita frowned. Was there a hint of jealousy in her eyes? She must understand the importance of his Holy Trinity.
“If it hadn’t been for you, Rita, I would have never known the impact Cal has had on the world already.”
“How so?”
“I’ve been keeping track of the video you showed me, and it already has millions of view from around the world. All from a silly little car crash rescue. Imagine their reactions when they see all that Cal is capable of…to think all my hours toiling away in this lab alone-”
“The entire world will see your genius,” Rita interrupted. “Just think of all the people who will line up to gain superpowers of their own. For a price.”
Dr. Almighty imagined people cheering for him at the genetic conferences, being interviewed on the news. It was finally happening for him.
“They will, won’t they?” He smiled. It had taken thirty long years to be praised a genius, but it was worth the wait already.
“Are you sure I can’t go with you? I’d love to meet Cal,” Rita offered once again.
“I must go alone.”
“Fine.” Rita lowered her eyes. “I figured it would be a good time to offer my help.”
“It’s kind of you. I’ll need your help in the days to come,” Ted promised, noting the disappointment in her countenance. “You’ve done more than your fair share. Take the night off. Paint the town red and all that.” He took out a large stack of money from a locked desk drawer.
Rita’s eyes lit up.
“No drugs, Rita. Or you can’t return.”
“I’ve been clean ever since you gave me powers. It’s like my body doesn’t want them anymore.”
Ted knew it was true, but he felt better hearing it from her. “Good. Now, go on. Enjoy yourself.”
“Well, one of these nights, maybe you’ll join me,” Rita tossed her hair and smiled. “I think we’d have a great time together, just you and me.”
Ted cleared his throat. He had done all he could to be friendly without giving the wrong impression; at least he had hoped. Rita was a lovely young woman, despite her yellow rotten teeth, but Ted had no interest in anything other than friendship. The last thing he wanted was to lead her on. She was admirable, anyone would be lucky to have her, but he only wanted friendship.
“I’ll be far too busy, Rita. But go on, I’m running late.”
Ted watched her face fall, relieved that she understood his message. He recognized the pain of rejection on her face. But he had no time to deal with Rita’s emotions while his ultimate creation was out there.
He hurried to his car, kept in a private underground garage that only he could access. Checking his options, he decided on his favorite, a midnight blue sedan that would blend in well on the road. No reason to bring out the black Bentley for his big mission. The goal was to go unseen, not to impress. The entire world would know his name and his accomplishments soon enough when they witnessed his talent and genius.
He chuckled a little at the viral response to Cal’s rescue video. The young man had only scratched the surface of his powers, and he had already taken the world by storm. Ted could almost taste the fame and recognition that would come his way once he and Cal joined forces to create a new world of hope and wonder. With his brain and Cal’s special abilities, nothing was impossible.
He was looking forward to introducing himself to his Holy Trinity. It was unfair. He knew so much about Cal. But the young man knew nothing about Ted, his divine creator.
Chapter 17
After a long, refreshing drive along the northern lakefront, Ted parked in front of the Bolden house. It was already late in the evening, past dinnertime, but the days were still long enough that it was not very dark. He admired the simple two-story, well-kept home; it reminded him of the humble house where he had spent his solitary childhood. Ted smiled to himself, remembering that Cal had no siblings either. Perhaps it would surprise Cal to learn how much they had in common.
He walked up the front steps and admired the hibiscus blooming. Their beauty would not last the swift change of seasons, so he enjoyed their vivid color even more. He rang the doorbell as he breathed in the fragrant summer blooms.
“Can I help you?” Valerie answered the door.
“Pardon the interruption. I hope I have the right place.” Ted checked the metal numbers to the right of the front door. “I was looking for Cal Bolden?” Ted adjusted his glasses and put on his best smile.
“Oh, you must be from the photography school. It’s like I haven’t seen him in a week. He’s been working so hard,” Valerie boasted. “I’m glad Cal is taking something so seriously. It’s a nice change.”
“Yes. I normally don’t make house visits, but your son is quite the promising student.” Ted played along.
“That’s wonderful to hear.”
“Yes, he has much greatness ahead.” Ted rocked the briefcase in his hand, wishing to avoid the small talk. “Is he home?”
“You’re in luck, Professor…uh, I didn’t catch your name.”
“Dr. Foyle.”
“He’s upstairs editing photos. I’ll tell him you’re here.”
“Thank you.” Ted’s heart pounded. Cal was here, only feet away instead of miles, and he would finally introduce himself.
“Come in. Make yourself at home.” Valerie pointed to the gray sofa covered in pink fluffy pillows. “Cal!” She marched upstairs and Ted took a seat to wait.
* * *
Cal had headphones on, the alternative band The 1975 streaming through his ears with a haunting yet upbeat sound. He was editing a photo he had taken of Fernando. Cal had captured one of his mischievous grins with his phone during a training break. Fernando had tried to snatch the phone away from Cal to delete it, but the phone slipped through his glossy leather gloves. Staring at the screen, he was lost in Fernando’s dark eyes, hypnotizing even in photographic form.
“Cal!” Valerie lifted the headphones away from his ears and Cal startled. “You have a visitor.”
“Mom, you scared the crap out of me!” He took all his strength not to fly into the ceiling.
“Who’s that? Looks like a model.” Cal felt Valerie peer over his shoulder to study the photo.
“Who? Him?” Cal blushed, turning around to try to cover the screen with his back. “A model? Yeah, he’s a model, for one of my classes, uh, Francisco.”
“Be careful with that one. I know you had a crush on your Spanish teacher back in high school. What was his name again?”
“Mo-om,” Cal groaned. “You said I had a visitor?”
“Yeah, he’s waiting downstairs. One of those dorky professor types. He said you’re doing so well in school. He predicts great things.” Valerie imitated the visitor with her hands.
“That I’m doing well in school?” Cal’s palms were sweaty as he realized who was downstairs.
Despite Fernando and Margo’s attempts to hide him, Dr. Almighty was at his house. Talking to his mom. Playing along with his photography school lie.
Cal’s jaw clenched and he rubbed the back of his neck, wondering if his mom could hear the pounding in his chest. “Uh, yeah, I better go talk to him and see what he wants to tell me then.”
“Don’t look so nervous. He couldn’t stop singing your praises.” Valerie patted his back.
Cal took in a sharp breath before heading downstairs.
“Cal Bolden, my star student.” Ted offered a toothy grin.
“Hi, uh, thanks for coming to see me.” Cal faked a smile as his mom went to the den to finish watching a movie with Gary.
“Photography school?” Ted chuckled after Valerie was out of earshot. “I suppose you had to explain why you haven’t been around. I haven’t even introduced myself yet and you’re out and about town, saving people from car wrecks.”
“What do you want from me?” Cal snarled, ignoring the tremble in his hands.
“I like that. You get straight to the point.” Ted sat and motioned for Cal to join him. “First, my name is Ted, but the recruits call me Dr. Almighty. For many years, I’ve been trying to create an ultimate superhero. A Holy Trinity, a man who wields three superpowers. One who can take on anything.”
“Why me?” Cal’s voice quivered.
“Why not you?” Ted tilted his head. “You look like the perfect specimen of a young man. A kind face, approachable. Reassuring. The eyes of a hero.”
“I’m no hero.” Cal had never felt special and it disgusted him that Ted assumed so much by his looks alone. But something inside made him wish to be the hero Fernando, Margo, and Ted thought he could be. Part of him yearned for the chance to rise above his ordinary life.
“Try telling that to the little girl you rescued.” Ted adjusted his glasses. “I knew I’d chosen the right man. If you join me, we can fight injustice in a new world of villains and superheroes.”
“That’s only in the movies.”
“Evil happens every day.” Ted rubbed his forehead. “My poor uncle was murdered in his home by a crazed young man with an ax. With such evil in this world, we need heroes to save the day.”
Cal shot up. “I’ll never work for you.”
“Or, you’re already working for someone else? Two of my dearest recruiters have been so preoccupied over the past week. Makes me curious. Is it you keeping them busy? Have you heard of Funesto and Magenta?”
Cal shook his head.
“How about their Christian names, Fernando and Margo?”
“Afraid not.” Cal looked at Ted’s brown leather shoes. He already missed those two and wished he was training instead of sitting here. Cornered by Dr. Almighty.
“Why won’t you work for me?”
“Because you took my life from me.” Cal narrowed his eyes at Ted. “I was doing just fine until you kidnapped me and did God knows what to me.”
“It was a precious gift.” Ted inhaled, and Cal saw the break in his composure. Something sinister lurked beneath Ted’s calm facade, but knowing he had the power to chip away at it made Cal feel braver. “A gift that has taken years to craft and create.”
“I never asked for this!” Cal’s face flushed as he tried not to shout. “All I wanted was an easy life. Travel the world, take photos. Be happy. I never wanted to be anyone special.”
“I hear you. I understand,” Ted began, his voice calm and monotone. “I put you through a lot, and I had no idea how you would react to your superpowers. Most of my recruits are grateful, but it’s a process.”
Cal exhaled. His powers seemed like burdens instead of gifts. Responsibilities he had never wanted to carry on his tired shoulders.
“I haven’t given you enough time,” Ted continued. “And for that, I do apologize. I never intended to rush you into your role of superhero.”
“Thanks, I guess.” Cal’s breathing slowed. Maybe Ted wasn’t as unreasonable as Fernando had painted him.
“You’ve given people hope and joy with a single, selfless action. Imagine the possibilities for your life.” Ted leaned forward, his eyes glued to Cal. “Some people live in fear. They never achieve greatness.”
“It was great to save someone. To do something right for once. I kinda slack off sometimes,” he confessed.
Ted chuckled. “You could have fooled me. If you choose not to use your powers, I won’t understand it but I’ll respect it. For now, take some time. Decide what’s best.”
Cal rubbed his jaw. Ted’s unexpected patience gave him pause.
“Enjoy the rest of your evening. I’m only a phone call away.” Ted retrieved a business card from his pocket and handed it over. Cal studied the ordinary looking card, turning it over. A phone number and Almighty Labs were printed on the front. The logo on the back was a simple green triangle.
Cal glanced at his blue watch, wondering what Jin would think, before saying goodbye. He led Ted to the door and locked it behind him.
“Is everything all right?” Valerie shouted from the other room.
“Yeah, he, uh, wants me to work on a new project, enter a contest.” Cal headed up the stairs.
He plopped down in his desk chair, leaning back. Cal set the business card from Dr. Almighty next to his open laptop. The card was enveloped by the mess on his desk, but its presence weighed on Cal’s mind. He let out a long sigh as the adrenaline rush subsided.
He could have a normal life again. Dr. Almighty would realize that Cal wasn’t cut out for superhero work, and he would find a new Holy Trinity. Cal could work at a coffee shop. If he was motivated enough, he could apply to a photography program. For real this time.
Cal touched a key on the laptop to wake it up. Fernando’s face popped up on the screen. If a normal life meant never being with him…the thought made his chest tighten. Meeting Fernando was the best part of having superpowers, even if it made him feel like the world’s worst boyfriend.
Drained of energy, Cal crawled into bed in his jeans and t-shirt, hoping to find clarity in the morning light.
* * *
Ted sat in his car, steaming. He tapped the steering wheel as the anger rose throughout his body. Over the years Ted had learned how to hide his emotions to his advantage, but Cal’s rejection was a knife to his heart. He cleared his throat, realizing that he had misjudged Cal. This young man didn’t desire fame and changing the world for the better like he did.
Ted couldn’t let Cal squander his precious gifts. He focused on the next plan of action. If his words didn’t convince Cal, his actions would.
Chapter 18
Cal woke up the next morning to a buzz from his phone before his alarm had the chance to sound. After stretching his arms over his head, he snatched his phone. If only he could have a few more minutes nestled in his warm familiar bed. He blinked his eyes and the mess of his room came into focus, a contrast to the guest room at Fernando’s which was pristine with a scent of oranges and summer.
He unlocked his phone to see Nessa had answered the text he’d sent yesterday afternoon:
“Sorry I’ve been busy. I’d love to
hang tonight. Dayvon and I will be on Clark Street at the new tapas bar. See you at 8.”
Cal smiled. Things were getting back to normal sooner than expected.
After a much needed lazy day of sitting in front of the television and eating whatever he could microwave for lunch, Cal showered and dressed in a button-down shirt and his best pair of jeans. Neither was nice as what he had bought with Fernando and Margo. He regretted not packing his new clothes, but he had been in a hurry to leave after that kiss. The mere thought of it stirred a passion he had never experienced, not even with Jin. His poor long-suffering boyfriend.
Cal would worry later.
Checking himself in the mirror, he ran a comb through messy and wet hair. He borrowed his mom’s car, since Valerie and Gary were house hunting again, and headed to the city. Cal wasn’t thrilled they were getting close to buying. It felt selfish, but he was one step away from leaving his childhood home for good. They were revisiting their top three choices today and would make a final decision this week if not tonight.
Cal found a parking space two blocks away from the bar which was lucky for a warm busy night.
“Hey man, long time no see.” Dayvon patted Cal on the back in a half hug when he arrived at the bar.
“Yeah, long week.”
Nessa hugged him.
“Lost my job,” Cal sighed. “Free from Rick at least, but no more paychecks.”
“That’s rough.” Dayvon shook his head.
“I got us a pitcher of sangria and the cold tapas should be out soon. Hope you like Spanish food.” Nessa brushed her tight braids from her face, studying Cal’s somber expression.
Cal jerked in his seat. He couldn’t help thinking of Fernando when a waitress set plates of jámon ibérico and Manchego cheese on their table. When the aroma hit his nose, he could almost see Fernando’s silhouette across the room.
“This looks good.” Cal forced a smile. He wondered what Fernando was doing right then and hoped he was safe.
“Earth to Cal! Hello?” Nessa had been calling his name. She nudged his shoulder. “Want sangria in that empty glass of yours?”