A Man Chooses; A Slave Obeys - Chapter Four: Part Two

Paulie had waited outside Ryan Industries for hours. The building was much like Ryan. It was ominous, imposing and grand. It expressed how hard he had worked to get what he had and he loved to show it off to everyone. There were few windows but a large ornate doorway. It had four doors in a gold plated frame with a red carpet leading up a small set of stairs to the entrance. The building itself was sheet metal polished to a shine which made the building look even more impressive.

Paulie was frantically pacing up and down the steps just outside. The secretary came out to see if he was okay.

“Excuse me sir, is everything alright?” She poked her head from behind the door.

“Mr. Ryan doesn't like me coming out but you seem worried. Can I get you a drink?” Paulie rushed up to her and she nearly stumbled back in shock.

“Please, my friend, he was taken inside almost two hours ago. What's happened to him? He-he's short with wavy hair and a thin moustache.” Vinny seemed frantic. The secretary stepped outside and made Paulie sit down on the steps.

“Your friend was just brought in for an offer. Mr. Ryan was interested in his business knowledge. I'm sure they're just discussing terms. I'll go get you a coffee, okay?” She smiled and Vinny calmed somewhat. He held his head in his hands and took a deep breath.

“I promised his Dad that I'd look after him no matter what. He was never the smartest or the strongest, but he always got himself into trouble. I just get worried about him. And a coffee would be great. Thanks.” Paulie stood up and took another deep breath while the secretary went inside. He heard the door go and thought the secretary had come back out. He turned and saw the security guard hauling somebody out. It was Vinny.

Paulie ran to catch Vinny as he was thrown down the stairs.

“Vinny! Fuck! Are you okay? Speak to me!” Vinny was a mess. His nose had been broken in two places, his jaw shattered. His cheekbone was broken and his left eye was swollen shut. Blood was pouring out of his mouth and ears and puss began streaming out of his eye.

“Paulie....Paulie? Is that you pal? Oh thank god. I thought I was dead! They knew everything! Ryan knows everything. About Fontaine. About last night.” Vinny coughed and sprayed blood over Paulie.

“What d'ya mean last night? I thought you didn't remember?” Paulie put Vinny on the ground and propped him up.

“Ha- I remember enough. I saw you talkin' to Fontaine about them Plasmids. Don't worry, I know you didn't take none.” Vinny coughed again. Paulie could see the pain on his face and went to carry him.

“We gotta get you to the hospital Vinny.” Vinny slapped Paulie away.

“No! I want you to take me to see Fontaine. We got business to discuss. Could you uh, carry me? It don't mean nothin' though, alright?” Paulie laughed and lifted Vinny off the ground. Vinny winced but took a deep breath and ushered Paulie to carry on.