Spoiled by Mr. Russell, Chapter 21

Mike licked his dry lips. "I stole two bottles of viruses from the lab," he said.

Austin and Alexander exchanged shocked glances. "What kind of viruses?" one of them asked.

"Stuff they developed at the lab. I have no idea what they are, but I thought they might be useful someday, maybe for a trade or something. I just took them," Mike replied casually. "I didn't tell you before because I was being selfish. I thought they might come in handy, and I think we can use them now."

Alexander frowned, disliking Mike's plan. "What are you planning to do?" he asked.

"I want to use the virus on myself." Mike paused, then looked up with an unwavering gaze.

"Have you lost your mind? You don't even know what it will do to you!" Alexander exclaimed. He thought, What the hell is he thinking? How can he even consider such a thing?

"I don't, but I might," Mike said, pointing his chin at Austin. "I'm okay as long as I don't die. What matters is fooling the organization."

Alexander understood. "You plan to trick them into believing you can replace Lily as the vessel?"

Mike didn't answer, and the others took his silence as confirmation.

"It won't work," Alexander said decisively.

"Why not? I'll figure out how to save Lily once I'm there. We can't let them do as they please," Mike said earnestly.

Alexander shook his head. "Do you think they're that gullible? Fred may not know medicine, but he'll likely detain you because he's unsure if he can trust you."

"Well, if he does, I can still figure out how to save Lily."

Alexander smiled helplessly. "Do you think Lily hasn't tried? Do you think she's less capable than you, or has she chosen to stay?"

"I..." Mike was stumped.

"Just give up this idea. It won't work," Alexander said bluntly.

"It might," Mike persisted, shaking his head. "How would we know if we don't try? There's no better way. Besides, they developed the viruses I stole. They might believe me!"

Austin chuckled. "First of all, you couldn't even fool us."

"But..."

"No more buts. Don't you want to rescue your son? You'll likely die if you go there," Alexander said, knowing Mike cared most about Nick.

Mike looked distressed. "That's why I need your help. I want you two to rescue and care for Nick if I die."

I suspect my chances of saving my son are slim; Nicky is probably dead. I'll have nothing to live for if I lose him. Still, if Nicky is still alive…