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Shatter Point: A Point Thriller, #2
Shatter Point: A Point Thriller, #2
Shatter Point: A Point Thriller, #2
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Shatter Point: A Point Thriller, #2

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Some nightmares never end!

"A thriller that grabs readers and doesn't let go, skillfully twisting, turning, and manipulating its plot for maximum impact." ~ D. Donovan, Senior Reviewer, Midwest Book Review

When her 19-year-old son Jack miraculously recovers from a serious head trauma, Maggie is sure her luck has changed. But when she's abducted by a shadow from her past - a phantom with dangerous sapphire eyes - it's up to Jack and his younger brother Tom to unravel the mystery and save their mom from a deadly psychological battle.

The brothers seek help from their colorful great aunt, who exposes them to a world of nefarious family secrets, explosive government conspiracies, and a series of horrific murders. Together they must navigate a dark underworld full of political subterfuge and class warfare - before the psychopath who took their mother reaches his shatter point.

  • WINNER: Pinnacle Book Achievement Award, Fall 2014 - Best Thriller
  • GRAND PRIZE FINALIST: Eric Hoffer da Vinci Eye Awards 2015
  • HONORABLE MENTION: Eric Hoffer Book Awards 2015 -- Best Commercial Fiction

EVOLVED PUBLISHING PRESENTS a gripping, intriguing glimpse of what America might become. From the award-winning author of the "A Nephilim Thriller" series, the "Chosen" series, the "Red Death" series, and Fracture Point, Jeff Altabef's Shatter Point will delight fans of thrillers, dystopian fiction, and fast-paced adventures. [DRM-Free]

"Shatter Point is an exciting novel of suspense, action, drama and even a little bit of horror…. It's definitely one of the best novels out there right now." ~ Next Page Reviews

"When I reached the last 100 pages no one was going to be able to stop me reading until I knew the ending!" ~ Olivia's Catastrophe

 

LanguageEnglish
Release dateMay 8, 2016
ISBN9781622533114
Shatter Point: A Point Thriller, #2
Author

Jeff Altabef

Jeff Altabef lives in New York with his wife, two daughters, and Charlie the dog. He spends time volunteering at the Writing Center in the local community college. After years of being accused of “telling stories,” he thought he would make it official. He writes in both the thriller and young adult genres. As an avid Knicks fan, he is prone to long periods of melancholy during hoops season. Jeff has a column on The Examiner focused on writing and a blog on The Patch designed to encourage writing for those that like telling stories.  [AUTHOR OF: A Point Thriller Series; A Nephilim Thriller Series; Chosen Series; Red Death Series]

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    Book preview

    Shatter Point - Jeff Altabef

    www.EvolvedPub.com

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    ~~~

    SHATTER POINT

    A Point Thriller – Book 2

    Copyright © 2014 Jeff Altabef

    ~~~

    ISBN (EPUB Version): 1622533119

    ISBN-13 (EPUB Version): 978-1-62253-311-4

    ~~~

    Editor: Megan Harris

    Senior Editor: Lane Diamond

    Cover Artist: Mallory Rock

    Interior Designer: Lane Diamond, with Images by Mallory Rock

    ~~~

    PUBLISHER’S NOTE:

    At the end of this novel of approximately 84,075 words, you will find two Special Sneak Previews: 1) DEVIL’S DEN, the author’s first novel in the multiple award-winning A Nephilim Thriller series, and; 2) FORGIVE ME, ALEX by Lane Diamond, another thriller we think you’ll enjoy. We provide these as a FREE extra service, and you should in no way consider it a part of the price you paid for this book. We hope you will both appreciate and enjoy the opportunity. Thank you.

    ~~~

    eBook License Notes:

    You may not use, reproduce or transmit in any manner, any part of this book without written permission, except in the case of brief quotations used in critical articles and reviews, or in accordance with federal Fair Use laws. All rights are reserved.

    This eBook is licensed for your personal enjoyment only; it may not be resold or given away to other people. If you would like to share this book with another person, please purchase an additional copy for each recipient. If you’re reading this book and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your use only, please return to your eBook retailer and purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author.

    ~~~

    Disclaimer:

    This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are products of the author’s imagination, or the author has used them fictitiously.

    Please note that this book, SHATTER POINT, although published first, is actually a follow-up to the events that take place in its prequel, FRACTURE POINT, which is now available.

    ~~~

    Thus, if you haven’t already, you should pop out and grab your copy today at the link below. And as always, I thank you so much for your support. You make it all worthwhile.

    ~ Jeff Altabef

    ~~~

    ~~~

    A POINT THRILLER Series at Evolved Publishing

    ~~~

    Thank you for picking up your copy of SHATTER POINT. We hope it gets your heart racing! As a thank you for that, and for joining Evolved Publishing’s newsletter list, we’d like to offer you a free gift.

    ~~~

    Jeff has written a short story, ENEMIES OF THE STATE, which is a companion piece featuring some of the memorable characters—and all the excitement—of Jeff’s A Point Thriller series.

    ~~~

    You’ll be able to download this story to your device, absolutely free, when you sign up at:

    FREE Copy of ENEMIES OF THE STATE.

    We’re pleased to offer you not one, but two Special Sneak Previews at the end of this book.

    ~~~

    In the first preview, you’ll enjoy the first three chapters of DEVIL’S DEN, the first book in the multiple award-winning A Nephilim Thriller series of supernatural religious thrillers, which happens to feature as the main character none other than Steven Cabbott of the A Point Thriller series.

    ~~~

    ~~~

    OR GRAB THE FULL EBOOK TODAY!

    YOU’LL FIND LINKS TO YOUR FAVORITE RETAILER HERE:

    A NEPHILIM THRILLER Series at Evolved Publishing

    In the second preview, you’ll enjoy the first four chapters of Lane Diamond’s award-winning FORGIVE ME, ALEX, the first book in the Tony Hooper series of psychological suspense thrillers.

    ~~~

    ~~~

    OR GRAB THE FULL EBOOK TODAY!

    YOU’LL FIND LINKS TO YOUR FAVORITE RETAILER HERE:

    TONY HOOPER Series at Evolved Publishing

    A NEPHILIM THRILLER

    Book 1: Devil’s Den

    Book 2: Devil’s Dance

    Book 3: Devil’s Deal

    Book 4: Devil’s Day

    ~~~

    A POINT THRILLER

    Book 1: Fracture Point

    Book 2: Shatter Point

    Enemies of the State – A Short Story

    ~~~

    CHOSEN

    Book 1: Wind Catcher

    Book 2: Brink of Dawn

    Book 3: Scorched Souls

    Second Chances – A Short Story

    ~~~

    RED DEATH

    Book 1: Red Death

    Book 2: The Ghost King

    Book 3: The Immortals

    ~~~

    www.JeffAltabef.com

    ~~~

    What Others Are Saying about Jeff Altabef’s Books:

    ~~~

    SHATTER POINT:

    An original gripping, saga. From genetic manipulation and twists of fate to cold-blooded murder, scenarios change with a snap but succeed in bringing readers along for what evolves into a wild ride of not just murder and mayhem, but social inspection. Donovan, eBook Reviewer, Midwest Book Review

    The book combines my favorite aspects of my favorite authors into one. James Patterson – the master of the psycho killer who kidnaps girls, Patricia Cornwell – scientific thriller, and Dean Koontz – really spooky plots.Kat Biggie, No Holding Back

    An amazing read.... This is one of those books that no reader will be able to part with until they reach the end, I guarantee it. Reynolds, Readers’ Favorite

    The plot immediately exploded a cast of intricate characters, an evolving plot that you don’t know where it’s going to take you from one chapter to the next. Every time a protagonist emerges a stronger character and story is unleashed and the result is an intriguing book that I just loved.Escapology Book of the Month for July 2015

    ~~~

    DEVIL’S DEN:

    "Readers who enjoy an injection of the supernatural rather than a story based entirely on otherworldly forces will appreciate just the right blend of paranormal tension and intrigue that bring this thriller to life.... [A] vivid, winning tale of a former couple’s confrontation with themselves, each other, and a wider-ranging threat that grabs the reader from the beginning and proves nearly impossible to put down. Thriller audiences will find Devil’s Den more than a notch above others in the genre." ~ Midwest Book Review, D. Donovan, Senior Reviewer, PICK OF THE MONTH – SEPTEMBER 2018

    Non-stop action and chills abound in the astounding speculative novel... This book has a thrilling plot, complete with formidable characters, magnificently blended with heart-pounding scenes filled with blood and guts. It starts with a bang and continues to build to an explosive finish. ~ Readers’ Favorite Book Reviews, 5 STARS

    Altabef’s engaging tale is both wild and wholly believable. His carefully developed plot is high with tension and intrigue. ... Overall, it’s an entertaining yarn for lovers of detective mysteries crossed with supernatural suspense. ~ US Review of Books, RECOMMENDED

    ~~~

    RED DEATH:

    "...A thought-provoking saga about belief systems and religion, courage, adaptability, greed, and goals of ruling humanity, and a seeming juggernaut of change that rolls over everyone in its path.... Perfect for readers who appreciate the complex worlds and feisty protagonists of The Hunger Games and similar novels." ~ Midwest Book Review, D. Donovan, Senior Reviewer, PICK OF THE MONTH – NOVEMBER 2016

    Jeff Altabef creates a fantasy adventure that weaves together powerful themes like death and faith, love and devotion, and, of course, betrayal. ~ Readers’ Favorite Book Reviews, 5 STARS

    "Where dystopian novels are a dime a dozen, Altabef creates an epic tale that stands out.... Altabef does a fantastic job of making concepts thought-provoking and delightful to read. Red Death will appeal to a wide audience since it has something for everyone. It’s action-packed, with plenty of chases and fights for those who enjoy adventures and drama. There are enough twists to surprise those who are intrigued by political intrigue, suspense, and cliffhangers. Amid kingdoms to unite, princes to save, and lives on the line, there is also a playful romance sprinkled throughout for those who desire some lightheartedness." ~ US Review of Books, RECOMMENDED

    ~~~

    WIND CATCHER:

    This is an enjoyable read for all ages that goes by as fast as the authors can unspool it. ~ Kirkus Reviews

    "Wind Catcher stands out from the crowd. It’s... a powerful young adult adventure steeped in Native American legend and tradition." ~ Midwest Book Review

    A page turning thrill a minute, Wind Catcher kept me guessing until its final pages. Age appropriate YA literature at its best. Don’t miss it! ~ Judy Murphy, Masters School Librarian

    For Karen, Emily, and Erynn, who are the sparks that make my heart beat, and to my pops for his contribution to this book and his tireless work as the Editor and Chief of my life.

    Table of Contents

    Copyright

    Author’s Note

    FREE GIFT

    BONUS CONTENT

    Books by Jeff Altabef

    Dedication

    Table of Contents

    SHATTER POINT

    Chapter 1

    Chapter 2

    Chapter 3

    Chapter 4

    Chapter 5

    Chapter 6

    Chapter 7

    Chapter 8

    Chapter 9

    Chapter 10

    Chapter 11

    Chapter 12

    Chapter 13

    Chapter 14

    Chapter 15

    Chapter 16

    Chapter 17

    Chapter 18

    Chapter 19

    Chapter 20

    Chapter 21

    Chapter 22

    Chapter 23

    Chapter 24

    Chapter 25

    Chapter 26

    Chapter 27

    Chapter 28

    Chapter 29

    Chapter 30

    Chapter 31

    Chapter 32

    Chapter 33

    Chapter 34

    Chapter 35

    Chapter 36

    Chapter 37

    Chapter 38

    Chapter 39

    Chapter 40

    Chapter 41

    Chapter 42

    Chapter 43

    Chapter 44

    Chapter 45

    Chapter 46

    Chapter 47

    Chapter 48

    Chapter 49

    Chapter 50

    Chapter 51

    Chapter 52

    Chapter 53

    Chapter 54

    Chapter 55

    Chapter 56

    Chapter 57

    Chapter 58

    Chapter 59

    Chapter 60

    Chapter 61

    Chapter 62

    Chapter 63

    Chapter 64

    Chapter 65

    Chapter 66

    Chapter 67

    Chapter 68

    Chapter 69

    Chapter 70

    Chapter 71

    Chapter 72

    Chapter 73

    Chapter 74

    Chapter 75

    Book Club Guide

    Special Sneak Preview: DEVIL’S DEN by Jeff Altabef

    Acknowledgements

    About the Author

    What’s Next from Jeff Altabef?

    More from Evolved Publishing

    Special Sneak Preview: FORGIVE ME, ALEX by Lane Diamond

    I’m a killer. No better than a common murderer, and worse, really. More like a serial killer who can’t help himself as he takes life after life, unable to stop even if he wished he could.

    Darian frowned at the corpse on the stainless steel autopsy table. Damn it, Zeus, I thought you were going to make it. His frown deepened until long lines etched into his face. Remorse wasn’t good enough. It was useless. Pointless, really. Remorse would not bring Zeus or any of the others back.

    He glanced at the video projections of Zeus’s brain development. His original brain on the left screen appeared normally formed and perfectly functional. The one on the right showed Zeus’s brain after he had injected him. Misshapen and grotesque, it was so overdeveloped it strained against the skull.

    Darian shook his head. Not again. I can’t lose another batch of test subjects.

    We’re making progress, Doctor Beck. This time, the brain enlargement slowed at the end. With some adjustments, next time it might stop before.... George attempted to smile, but only the tips of his lips responded. Twice Darian’s age, he was so optimistic he could see the silver lining in a hurricane, but this lethal turn of events left even him speechless.

    "We’re missing something critical. We need to stop the brain development before it overwhelms the subject." Darian peered through the glass wall that separated the autopsy room from the rest of the laboratory. The remaining five subjects sat perfectly straight and stared mournfully at the glass as if Darian and Zeus and the table with death hovering above it drew their gaze.

    An icy chill tickled its way up his spine. The others had no idea Zeus had died. They were often separated. To them, the glass wall was a simple mirror. They had no idea—could have no idea—a laboratory sat beyond the glass, yet he suspected they knew the truth: that Zeus was dead and he the killer.

    Darian nodded toward the remaining subjects. It’s odd that they haven’t eaten their breakfast. It’s already past noon. They must be hungry.

    Color drained from George’s face. It’s unnatural for them to stare at the mirror like that.

    Darian pressed a button on a keypad and the one-way glass window turned gray, blocking the other subjects from view. Led Zeppelin started playing. It’s just our imagination. Hand me the circular saw. Let’s hope we can learn enough from Zeus to save his friends.

    George handed him the shiny autopsy tool, but before he switched it on, the lab door swung open and Brenda Callaghan darted into the room. The normally composed, rather attractive young researcher appeared ashen, her jaw clenched tight.

    What’s wrong, Brenda?

    I came as soon as I heard. I’m sorry about Zeus, but there’s something else you should know.

    Darian stared patiently and waited for her to continue. She clutched a thin hospital issued tablet in her hands. His chest tightened.

    Wickersham authorized EBF-202 to be administered to a new patient. He doesn’t know that Zeus died, but the injection is scheduled for later today. She handed Darian the tablet.

    Darian narrowed his eyes until they were nothing more than slits. "This is a young patient. How can he do this? This is my trial! We’re not ready! We’ll end up killing him. The tablet cracked under his tightening grip. I’m going to...." The violent images flashing through his mind came too fast and were too graphic to put into words. He hurled the tablet across the room and raced from the lab.

    Darian hurried toward the elevator, his white lab coat flapping open, revealing a vintage Grateful Dead t-shirt, worn blue jeans, and flip-flops. His usually affable face twisted into an angry grimace as he repeatedly jabbed the call button. He cursed under his breath and shifted his weight back and forth. When the bell rang, the door swished open, and he darted inside the empty elevator.

    Please hold the doors! a voice called.

    He instinctively thrust out his hand as they began to shut. A young female lab assistant strolled into the elevator. Her long, pin-straight blonde hair was pulled back in a ponytail and swayed as she walked. Her golden brown tan contrasted with her white lab coat, and her jade eyes that flirted behind long eyelashes. She smelled like jasmine and vanilla. She must be new, he thought. Perfume was discouraged in the labs, and no one stayed tan after working the long hours the research facility required.

    Thanks for holding it for me. She smiled.

    No problem. Darian tapped the button for the top floor, raised his eyebrows, and glanced at the lab assistant.

    That’s good for me, she said.

    When the elevator stopped on the main floor to let in three additional passengers, Darian stepped back, and she slid closer to him. The fragrance of her perfume grew stronger. A current zipped through his body as he breathed the scented air deep into his lungs.

    My name is Vanessa. She held out her hand.

    Darian squeezed and let go, but her hand lingered for a second longer than it needed to. Electricity flowed between them.

    I’m Darian Beck. He had been so angry and preoccupied that he almost forgot to notice that she was a knockout. Almost, but his eyes wandered to her thin neck and started to wash down the rest of her body when he admonished himself and pulled away.

    The elevator stopped at the fourth floor and let out everyone except Darian and Vanessa. He used the space to furtively study her reflection off the elevator doors. Her eyes were wide, lips full and red. A small beauty mark dotted her right cheek, which made her perfectly symmetrical face beyond beautiful—unique.

    Vanessa stayed close to his side. A seductive smile snuck across her lips. I’ve heard your name mentioned before, Doctor.

    He grinned despite his surly mood. Only good things, I hope.

    Mostly. She winked good-naturedly at him.

    When the doors opened, he raced from the elevator, eager to be on his way, temporarily forgetting about the new lab assistant with the sweet smile and perfume.

    The top floor hardly resembled the rest of the research hospital. Gone were the gray tile floors, fluorescent lights, plain hallways, and metal doors. Dark cherry paneling, antique ink drawings, and white wooden doors replaced them.

    He stomped toward the corner office. With each step he grew more agitated, as if his anger rolled down a steep hill, gathering intensity as it went. He stared hard at the nameplate on the corner office door—Samuel Wickersham, PHD – Head of Research—and shoved it open.

    The receptionist screeched in surprise at his sudden entrance. She regained her composure and grinned at him. I’m sorry, Doctor Beck, but we don’t have an appointment for you.

    Not to worry, Clair. He’ll want to see me. He quickened his pace toward Wickersham’s door, turned the doorknob, and plunged into the corner office.

    Wickersham’s cavernous office was larger than Darian’s entire studio apartment. Floor-to-ceiling windows covered both exterior walls and offered stunning views of New York City. He huffed to Wickersham’s massive desk. Four inch risers lifted his desk and chair. In reality, Wickersham was short, well below average, but from Darian’s vantage point, he seemed imposing.

    Wickersham immediately raised his left hand with his palm facing Darian, without looking up, as if he’d been expecting him. Wickersham’s vast oval desk contained only a flat screen computer monitor, a new holographic video display that was turned off, an old-fashioned intercom box, and a photograph of a smiling Wickersham with his left arm draped over the Vice President’s shoulders. He told everyone that they were childhood friends. No one believed him.

    Wickersham’s eyes never lifted from his keyboard.

    Darian seethed as he watched the snail-like progress of his fingers drag across the keyboard. He balled his hands into tight fists. Wickersham shifted in his seat, but his perfectly tailored, crisp navy suit moved seamlessly with him. He paused for a second and gently stroked his dyed blond hair, but not one hair moved. He used so much hair gel, Darian thought it would take a tsunami to move any out of place.

    When Wickersham finished typing, he looked up from the keyboard. Darian couldn’t read his emotions; Wickersham had injected a river of Botox into his face. It was like dealing with a mannequin.

    Doctor Beck, I didn’t know that we had a meeting scheduled. I imagine you have something important to tell me. Perhaps you have a breakthrough to report? Please, take a seat. Wickersham gestured toward one of the two leather wingback chairs facing the desk, but Darian remained standing.

    We can’t try EBF-202 on a new patient. It’s not ready.

    I disagree. The drug has shown remarkable potential. Wickersham crossed his manicured hands on the desk in front of him. He sat absolutely straight, tried his best to smile, and sighed slightly when the effort failed.

    The first version of the drug ended up killing all the test subjects. Darian leaned on the desk, wondering if he could hurtle it and reach Wickersham’s throat in one leap.

    That was the first version. The second version hasn’t produced any fatalities. I visited all six of our research subjects last night. They all looked healthy.

    Zeus died this morning! Darian glared at him, hoping Zeus’s death would cause him to reconsider, or at least bother him, but if it did, the head of research showed no signs of it.

    We only started this trial two months ago. Their brains are still developing. The pace has slowed considerably, but it hasn’t stopped yet. If the development continues, they will all die over the next month. Plus, their behavior has altered. It’s just not safe! We don’t understand all the ramifications of the drug. We can’t use EBF-202 on humans. I didn’t go into research to kill people! It’s bad enough the dogs have died.

    Wickersham leaned back in his chair and folded his arms across his chest. How did you know I planned on using a human test subject?

    Darian’s face grew hot.

    I see. Callaghan must have told you. My mistake.

    That’s not important. EBF-202 regenerates brain tissue, but we can’t control the effects. It will likely kill anyone you inject with it! We need more time with the animal control subjects. His anger crested like a wave headed to shore, and crashed as it mingled with sand and surf and the knowledge that he was helpless.

    This drug will revolutionize how we view the brain. The treatment will not only end Alzheimer’s and senility, but can increase cognitive powers. The applications are endless, and so are the profits. You’re young still. You must understand the bigger picture. With your share of the money, most of your educational costs will be paid off. Wickersham’s moss-colored eyes gleamed brightly.

    Darian’s spirit sank. That look in Wickersham’s eyes meant that he sniffed money, and when he thought he might get paid, nothing changed his mind. Did the patient’s guardian sign the consent forms?

    Wickersham tried to smirk, but he gave up under the strain well before Darian could have recognized the reaction. You’ve seen the young man’s chart. He’s not going to recover from his head wound if we do nothing. At least we’ll be giving him a chance to benefit all humankind. Besides, he’s the perfect test subject—young and strong with a severe head trauma.

    He still has a fighting chance to come out of the coma using traditional treatments. His guardian should be told about the choices and the risks.

    Wickersham stood, his head clearing the high back of his chair by an inch. This is 2041, Doctor Beck. The law was changed two years ago. Without premium insurance, I can make this decision, and he doesn’t have the proper coverage.

    Darian’s nails dug into the palms of his hands. But the Sheppard Group is paying all his bills. They have the required riders in their insurance.

    Wickersham slithered toward the side of his desk. Yes, but the tennis instructor is not covered by that insurance. They’re paying for his costs out of pocket. Wickersham waved his arms in the air as if he were conducting a symphony. This is for the best, Darian. Don’t worry about the ethics. You should stick to what you’re good at: neurobiology and making friends among the female staff members.

    Just give me another two months with the dogs. We’ll be in a better place.

    Wickersham stood beside him, his head just inches above Darian’s shoulder despite the man’s ridiculous platform shoes. You’ll be fully involved in his case study. Just imagine how much we’ll learn! Think of all the people he’ll be helping.

    The intercom buzzed. Wickersham might have been the only person alive who still used one of those things. Your daughter is here for your meeting, Doctor Wickersham.

    Great. I’ve just finished with Doctor Beck. Good day, Doctor.

    His name is Jack.

    Whose name?

    "The tennis instructor. Your case study." He had a fleeting fantasy about smashing his fists into Wickersham’s surgically altered nose, but spun and stormed toward the door instead. He reached for the doorknob, but the door swung open and he collided with Wickersham’s daughter. Their eyes met.

    Vanessa?

    Thump-thump-thump-thump.

    Cooper brushed his fingertips across the smooth, soft flesh of her chest and chuckled. Your heart is racing like a small, scared rabbit.

    He offered his brightest smile, and willed his sapphire eyes to twinkle. He used one of his direct irresistible looks, one that never failed to melt a woman’s heart.

    It’s you, baby. You make me... cr-crazy. Her lips quivered, and her eyes brimmed with tears. Young and lovely, her naked form stretched out on the freshly cut emerald grass, which bent against the weight of her thin body. Her chestnut eyes were wide with excitement, her hair pulled back in pigtails and tied with pink ribbons. A smattering of freckles playfully dotted her nose and cheeks. She had worked as a waitress before they met, before he took her away from that life to give her a better one.

    Have you enjoyed spending time with me? He stroked the cream-colored skin on her upper arm. Goose bumps sprouted in response.

    Of course, baby. You’re an angel.

    The answer pleased him. He tipped back a crystal wine glass, taking a sip of the 2021 Lafite Rothschild Bordeaux. He let the liquid linger in his mouth before swallowing. Some people say superb wine is determined solely by the conditions in which the grapes are grown. They argue that if the soil content is just right, and you have ideal amounts of rain and sun, great wine is sure to follow.

    He took another sip from his glass. I disagree. Without extraordinary vines, truly superior wine cannot flourish. The same is true with humans. Only those with the proper genetic code can truly be exceptional.

    She stared back with a blank expression on her face.

    Cooper shrugged. It is a trick of fate. He opened a wicker picnic basket and removed a piece of aged, sharp cheddar cheese and sliced off two paper-thin pieces. He fed one to her, fingertips sweeping against her pink lips.

    He nodded toward the sky. It is a near perfect day, and you are almost perfect.

    I can try to be perfect. I’ll do anything you want.

    He smiled and stroked her cheek with the back of his hand. I know you would try, but there are things you can’t be—certain... deficiencies you cannot overcome. His smile vanished and his demeanor turned cold and hard like blue ice.

    A singular tear rolled down the girl’s cheek. When she pulled her hand away from him, a jolt shot through her and she whimpered.

    Struggling won’t help you. The restraints are electrified. If you struggle against them you will only feel pain—a tremendous amount of pain. And we wouldn’t want that, would we? The words dripped out of his mouth like sickly sweet syrup.

    No, don’t hurt me. Please don’t. She glanced toward an athletic-looking young man standing behind her tormentor, the only other person in the field. She pleaded at him with her eyes.

    The attendant smiled coolly back at her, casual in a plain white t-shirt and blue pants, eyes lit with an unnatural gleam. He was trim and well muscled, but a softness to his features indicated that he lived a life of privilege.

    You can call out to Terry if you’d like. You can beg him to help you, but I don’t think your pleas will do you any good.

    She tried to kick, but the restraint held and jolted her with another blast of electricity. She screeched. Tears rolled down her face freely now.

    Terry, bring me the case.

    Terry placed a plain wooden case on the grass next to the girl and opened

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