Nate DuFort

I walked the same path I used when showing up to work.

I knew all the dangling exposed wires, open pits, and other hazards were illusions.

Sam checked the rooms ahead as we walked past, but I knew these were going to be safe.

This facility looked untouched, and there was no way that anything got in.

However, it occurred to me that if 313 was alive, other experiments could wander the deep halls.

I took out the pistol.

It was heavy, and Sam looked at me, then at the weapon in my hand.

Don't worry, I see nothing, but... I trailed off, looking behind him.

313's face was looking out a door window behind him, and he turned, raising the shotgun, scanning the area.

It was just a reflection.

He nodded but looked rattled.

As we walked down the hallway, he jumped at nothing and raised his shotgun again.

I gripped the pistol but was too scared to raise it and accidentally shoot him.

He looked back at me, his eyes wide.

The shotgun turned and faced me.

"'Hey, Sam!

Sam, it's me!'

I shouted, raising my hands.

"'Don't shoot if you want to get paid!'

I tripped over my boots and Sam fired the shotgun.