Chapter 89. Ethan’s real background.
Leclair’s expression was tight, his jaw set in a hard line as he stood by Ethan’s bedside. The soft hum of the machines monitoring his brother’s condition filled the room, a constant reminder of how fragile the situation was. Ethan lay motionless, his breathing steady but unnaturally shallow. The doctors had assured them he wasn’t dead, but the lack of response from him felt just as agonizing.
Dr. Rowen cleared his throat, his voice breaking the tense silence. "This isn’t death, as we initially feared," he said firmly, his tone steady but laced with urgency. "It’s a case of what we call pseudo-death. All of Ethan’s vital organs are functioning, his metabolism is stable, and there are no signs of trauma or failure. This means... he will wake up. We just don’t know when."
Isaac, standing on the other side of the bed, let out a sharp exhale. Relief flickered across his face, though his brows remained furrowed. "But why did this happen? Ethan was perfectly fine before. What caused this... condition?"
Dr. Rowen hesitated. His eyes shifted to Lucas, who stood quietly in the corner. Lucas gave a subtle nod, silently urging the doctor to speak.
"I think it’s best if we discuss this in private," Dr. Rowen finally said. "There’s more to this than meets the eye. Please, follow me to my office."
The journey to Dr. Rowen’s office was heavy with unspoken tension. Lucas trailed behind them, his face unusually grim.
When they entered the doctor’s office, another figure was already waiting for them. A middle-aged woman with sharp eyes and an air of authority rose from her seat. Her lab coat was pristine, and her presence commanded immediate attention.
"Professor Zara," Dr. Rowen introduced her. "She’s been working closely on understanding Ethan’s condition. She might have the answers you need."
Zara nodded curtly, her gaze settling on Leclair and Isaac. "What I’m about to tell you is... difficult to process," she began, her voice steady but tinged with regret. "But it’s crucial that you understand the truth about Ethan—and yourselves."
Leclair crossed his arms, his skepticism evident. "What do you mean? Ethan and I have been through enough. We deserve straightforward answers."
Zara sighed, gesturing for them to sit. "Ethan’s symptoms resemble the effects of a research project conducted decades ago—Project CALE."
Isaac stiffened at the mention of the infamous project, his hands curling into fists. "Project CALE? That’s been shut down for years. Are you saying it’s still active?"