Love Unbreakable by Bank Brook

Luis elaborated that “Mutant” unfolded in distinct phases.

Initially, the substance melded and interacted internally without apparent harm.

But as the weeks passed, the inflicted person’s strength dwindled, their ability to walk slipped away, and muscles wasted away.

By the third stage, confinement to a bed was inevitable, leaving nothing but a fragile shell of once robust vitality.

The mind behind “Mutant” had a twisted vision, crafting a demise that would force the afflicted to witness their own decay.

Often, the grip of helplessness gripped so tight that it drove the tormented to contemplate a premature end to their anguish.

In the quiet that followed, Luis sought to imbue a sense of calm.

“The tests indicate just a single dose in your system.

The second has not found its way into you.

And I’m on the trail of the mind that birthed this malice.

Should we discern its makeup, hope for a cure is not lost…”

Before Luis could outline further plans, Mitchel cut in with a heavy command, “Keep Raegan in the dark about this.

”

A silence fell, with Luis lost momentarily in thought.

Despite the weight of his revelation, Mitchel’s concerns were singularly fixed on Raegan.

“Raegan should be braced for what’s to come… Luis suggested tentatively.

”

“No,” Mitchel interjected firmly, his voice ice over the line.

“I don’t want to burden her with worry.

”

“Okay, but…” Luis began but stopped mid-sentence, realizing the futility of his hopeful musings.

With brotherly conviction, Luis assured, “Forget it.

You’re going to pull through.

I’ve got your back.

”

As Mitchel’s call ended, Matteo remained by the car, patiently awaiting Mitchel’s next move.

Mitchel’s gaze locked onto the vivid insignia of Crescent, lost in thought until finally, he broke the silence.

“Let’s go to the office.

”

The tasks ahead dawned on Mitchel, an overwhelming tide of duty.

In a change of scene, Katie found solace in Luciana’s place, her eyes brimming as she confided in Luciana about Mitchel’s coldness.

Luciana comforted, “Katie, don’t fret.

I’m here, and I trust you wholeheartedly.

I acknowledge your baby.

”

The comfort found in Luciana’s words bolstered Katie’s resolve, her attentiveness to Luciana growing.

In the quiet introspection that followed, Katie couldn’t help but lament her ploy that had led to Luciana’s fall, all designed to lure Mitchel back.

After all, Luciana’s unguarded trust was far more pliable than Mitchel’s guarded nature.

As the evening waned and conversation with Luciana dwindled, Katie’s phone stirred to life with a buzz.

Masking her emotions, Katie handed Luciana the medication with a cheerful guise.

“Luciana, your medicine’s ready.

”

With a warm smile, Luciana accepted and drank with Katie’s gaze firmly upon her.

Once Luciana was comfortably nestled in bed, Katie gently urged, “Time to sleep.

”

Luciana’s slumber was swift, as it always was.