He slipped his hands into the pockets of his white lab coat and lifted his head with quiet arrogance.
"One year from now, Earth will be divided into two worlds. You'll have the freedom to choose which half you want to live in."
He took a slow, deep breath.
"Though I already know what your answer will be..."
"Do whatever you want. Nothing will stop me."
She flexed her numb fingers, quickly wiped her nose, then sprang from her chair. With hurried, angry steps, she stormed toward the laboratory door.
He turned away, letting her leave without so much as a glance.
Just before walking out, she stopped and turned to face his back.
"No one has ever disappointed me the way you have today," she said, her voice trembling. "Congratulations... you've outdone them all."
She paused for a brief moment before adding,
"I'll see you in a year."
