Enter the Kid
Chapter 1
"What the hell were you thinking? He's a kid! We can't have him hanging around with us. People are gonna think we kidnapped him or something," David said.
"It was an accident! And I couldn't kill him, he's….just a kid," replied Marko.
"Which is exactly why you shouldn't let accidents like that happen. Now we'll all have to live with your mistake."
Marko could tell this was going to be the end of the discussion for now as David left him, heading back to the cave. He'd fucked up. Big time. It was going to be a while before David would trust him on his own again.
"It's not my fault. I didn't ask for this," thought Marko. He was an accident, just like Laddie; just a guy in the wrong place at the wrong time. He wasn't like the others. Max had handpicked them, each for their own specific talent, and had built a small army. David had a gift for leadership and kept the group together. Dwayne was the charmer. Tall, dark, and handsome, he could lure anyone back to Hudson's bluff. Paul was ruthless, never stopping to think twice about ripping into flesh or pulling out organs. And he was loyal. Paul would defend you to the death, and avenge you if necessary.
A tap on his shoulder took Marko away from his thoughts. "Marko?" It was Laddie.
"Yeah, bud?" Marko responded.
"I'm hungry," said Laddie, "Or thirsty, I guess."
"I know. But let's hold off on that for now. Let's go meet the boys."
Marko took the boy's hand, leading him back towards the cave. When they entered, David glanced briefly at them, then retreated to a side room. Dwayne and Paul sat playing cards and munching on Chinese takeout. Paul looked up, "What's with the kid?" he asked.
"He's one of us now," said Marko.
"You mean…"
"Yeah."
"Oh. Well. Um, hey kid."
"His name is Laddie."
"Oh, then hey Laddie."
Laddie smiled and gave a shy wave. Dwayne just stared, doubt and confusion appearing on his stoic face.
"They'll come around, don't worry," Marko whispered to Laddie. "Or at least I hope so."