Innate Goodness

When Kenmei arrived, he took one look at me and directed me into Professor Pops' office. "You've changed, Shiryo-san," he said as soon as the door closed behind him.

I gulped down my fear. "Have I?"

"No sense playing coy, revenant." His voice sounded harsh, his eyes hard with anger. "If you intend to survive another month, you've got to trust Adam Henry, the brothers, and me. We are on your side."

He sat in the chair next to mine and took my trembling hands. His eyes softened. "I can help, Shiryo-san. Talk to me."

I nodded, pushing back tears as heat spread from his hands into my skin.

With my new abilities, I listened for his heartbeat. He didn't have one, though I sensed his innate goodness.

"Start at the beginning," he ordered quietly.

I did. I told him everything. The more I talked, the more relieved I became. I hadn't realized how much of a burden I carried, keeping all that happened - and there was a lot - a secret.

As I spoke, Kenmei nodded occasionally but kept quiet.

He d