Chapter 2: A Life-Changing Encounter
Vardan sat alone in the classroom, the low hum of fluorescent lights above him the only sound in the empty room. The teacher had assigned homework, but he hadn't completed it. Instead, he had been busy doing the bullies' homework to avoid their torment. It was a choice born out of fear, and now, as the last light of the day faded outside, he was finally done.
As Vardan gathered his things, the school's hallways felt emptier than usual. He walked out of the classroom, his footsteps echoing in the quiet building. He was just about to head for the exit when he saw the janitor, Jenkins, walking down the hall, his broom sweeping the floor in slow, deliberate motions. Vardan felt nervous around him. The janitor had a certain aura, like he knew more than he let on.
Vardan hesitated for a moment, about to speak, but the sound of footsteps approaching quickly interrupted him. Suddenly, Jenkins grabbed Vardan and pulled him behind him, as if shielding him from something.
Vardan looked over Jenkins' shoulder and saw a man standing at the far end of the hall. The man had a menacing presence, his cold eyes scanning the area. Vardan's stomach tightened in fear.
"Who are you?" Jenkins asked, his voice steady but laced with caution.
The man smiled darkly. "The name's Jack. I'm here to take down the legend."
The janitor's eyes narrowed. "And who's offering the bounty?"
Jack's grin widened. "Seven billion dollars."
Vardan's eyes went wide. Seven billion? Why would someone put such a massive price on Jenkins' head?
Jack's gaze then shifted to Vardan, his smile turning into something darker. "Looks like I've got two targets now."
Before Vardan could react, Jack was already in motion, rushing toward Jenkins with the speed of a predator. Jenkins, though older, moved just in time to block the first strike, using his body to shield Vardan. He shoved Vardan behind him, shouting, "Run!"
Vardan didn't think twice. He turned and sprinted, his heart pounding as he glanced back to see Jenkins holding his ground. The janitor was doing his best to protect him, but Vardan couldn't shake the feeling that something bad was about to happen.
As he ran, Vardan thought about the countless times he had been bullied and forced to run. No one had ever protected him before—until now. Jenkins, the janitor, was fighting for him.
He stopped running. He couldn't keep running forever.
Vardan turned and saw a storage room door nearby. He remembered the suitcase inside—the one Jenkins had always kept hidden. With determination in his eyes, Vardan dashed into the storage room.
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A Final Stand
Back in the hallway, the fight between Jenkins and Jack was becoming more intense. Jack was fast, and the janitor was starting to slow down, his breaths coming in labored gasps. Jack smirked as he advanced, confident that victory was near.
"I've heard stories about you," Jack said, his voice mocking. "You were the top of the organization, the number one enforcer. But all legends come to an end."
Jenkins stood, his old frame barely holding itself together. He was exhausted, but his resolve didn't waver. "I've fought too many battles to lose now."
As Jack stepped forward, ready to end the fight, Vardan suddenly appeared. His eyes locked on the gun he had just thrown into the air. Jenkins saw it and, using every last ounce of his strength, lunged forward to catch it.
Jack didn't realize what was happening until it was too late. He saw the gun and moved toward it, thinking it would be his victory. But Jenkins, despite his fatigue, was faster. In a final burst of energy, he grabbed the gun and aimed it at Jack.
Jack froze, shocked by the janitor's speed. It was too late. Jenkins pulled the trigger.
The sound of the gunshot rang through the hallway, echoing against the walls. Jack collapsed to the ground, the life leaving his eyes as he fell motionless.
Vardan stood in the doorway of the storage room, his heart racing. He couldn't believe what had just happened. The man who had been after them was now lying on the ground, defeated.
Jenkins, breathing heavily, lowered the gun. He looked at Vardan with a tired but resolute expression. "It's over," he said quietly. "You're safe."
Vardan couldn't speak. His mind was still processing the chaotic events that had just unfolded. For the first time in his life, someone had fought for him, someone had stood in his place. And for the first time, he didn't have to run.
As the janitor walked away, Vardan remained frozen in place, trying to comprehend the moment. He had faced fear, had fought his own battle, and had won—thanks to Jenkins.