Machine Man (serial)

I got two steps into the hallway before Angelica gasped. “Is that—”

“The guy with the legs,” said Lola. “Yeah.”

I turned and squinted at Angelica. Now I remembered her. She had been my doctor, back in the hospital. She had called me unstable. That seemed pretty rich, now I knew she kept a house full of tiny, dressed dogs.

“He shouldn’t—”

“I know. But close the door, okay?”

Angelica came inside and shut out the night. The dog in her arms stared at me. I didn’t know what it was thinking. But it was something.

“We’re in trouble,” Lola said. “We need help.”

I closed my eyes and let Lola talk. I was glad she was taking the lead, because I was done. I closed my eyes and let their conversation swirl around me. I saw the Manager, flying backwards out the window. His eyes stayed on me until he dropped out of sight.

“Charlie.”

I opened my eyes. Cassandra Cautery was there, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with Lola. “I’m sorry,” I croaked. “I didn’t mean to kill him.”

“He goes in and out,” said Lola.

Cassandra Cautery nodded. “You did the right thing. I’ll take care of him.” She came closer. “Let me take a look at that arm.”

“Don’t take my arms.” Then I realized it wasn’t Cassandra Cautery. It was Angelica. She had deep brown eyes, like the dog she was carrying. In fact, they had very similar expressions. I knew what that dog was thinking now. It was: This guy is trouble.

“Just relax, Charlie,” said Lola, and it seemed like a good idea. I passed out.

107.