[POV – Baines | Inside the Building]
From behind the glass doors, Baines spotted him—tall, good posture, hands in his pockets, face calm as ever.
He pressed a button on the intercom. "I'm coming down."
The door buzzed, and Baines disappeared down the stairwell.
[POV – Michael | Lobby]
Michael didn't have to wait long before the glass door opened. Baines stepped out in a dark button-up shirt, sleeves rolled, slacks instead of a uniform. His hair was shorter and becoming gray at the temples.
"Been a while," Baines said, extending a hand.
Michael shook it. "Yeah. Feels like yesterday."
They walked side by side through the sleek, modern lobby. Security watched from behind dark glass. The place was clean, efficient. Cold.
"So," Baines said, giving him a quick glance, "have you really thought about this?"
Michael nodded. "I'm sure."
[Flashback – 1.5 Years Earlier]
They were in Baines's garage. His car was parked beside them, the hood still warm from the drive.
"I'm telling you," Baines said, leaning on the workbench. "You'd be good at it."
Michael shook his head. "It's not for me."
Baines just laughed. "You say that now. Think about it. If you ever change your mind, give me a call."
Michael had rolled his eyes then—but deep down, a seed had been planted.
[Present – Inside the Facility]
The elevator doors opened with a soft chime. Baines stepped out first, giving a small wave to someone at the front desk.
"I'll show you around," he said.
Michael looked around as they moved through the hallways—metal floors, reinforced doors, signs marked with restricted access warnings.
"So," he said, "you've became Vice President now?"
Baines chuckled." sigh.. It just means more meetings and more work."
They passed a glass window showing a training room inside—people in tactical gear sparring with speed and precision.
"And Darkom," Michael said. "That's the company's name?"
Baines nodded. "Defense and Reconnaissance Command. D-A-R-K-O-M. Sounds cooler than it is. Private company. Been around for a while now."
Michael frowned slightly. "Doing what exactly?"
Baines looked at him. "Demon hunting. Among other things."
Michael slowed his steps, eyes locked on Baines. "You're lying."
Baines smiled, but it didn't reach his eyes. "Wish I was."