Fire and Ice

As soon as they left the bathroom, the first thing Tom saw was countless people, mostly women, working in various offices. Some were deeply focused on their computers, while others were making clothes.

There, Tom realized that they were in a fashion company, and not just any, but one of the most prestigious and powerful in the world, Butterfly Shny.

It was a huge conglomerate that encompassed all kinds of high-end women's clothing; executives, movie stars, and famous models were among its regular clients.

“It's... it's amazing that this is here... and no one notices,” Tom said, unconcerned about being overheard.

“I know perfectly well; that's one of the perks of Vanishing, but we didn't come here for these mere servants... we're after a MUCH bigger fish,” said Staxis, guiding the young man through the building.

Led by the blonde, our protagonist crossed the place, ascending several floors until they reached a door with a golden plaque that read Director. Just then, a man with a sad expression and a weary appearance entered the office, with Staxis and Tom right behind him.

Inside was a woman reviewing several papers; her face was somewhat serious, though her features were soft, and her body well-toned. Tom had seen her once or twice in the news—she was Elisabeth Ember, the daughter of the company’s owner and its current director.

Unlike other rich kids, she had earned her place based on her effort and skills, propelling the company to become one of the best designers of women's fashion.

“Here, kid, is our target,” Staxis said, pointing to the director.

“Okay, what do you want from her?” Tom asked, still puzzled.

“Silence and listen; that’s how you will understand.”

Listening to him, he prepared to observe the scene unfolding before them. He noticed the man’s expression brighten as soon as he saw Elizabeth Ember, even though she didn't even turn to look at him.

He also realized he was the janitor, as it was stated on the back of his shirt.

“Mr. Lincoln, have you completed the repairs I asked you for?” Elizabeth Ember asked disdainfully.

“Yes, Miss Ember, it’s done,” the janitor replied instantly.

“Did you make the request to fix the broken elevator?” she asked again, without looking up.

“I did this morning; they will come to repair it in two hours.”

“Good, and what about the shareholders' meeting?”

“Scheduled for tomorrow at 12:00; I have already sent the notice to all the shareholders.”

Thus, the conversation between the two transpired without Elizabeth showing the slightest hint of emotion or interest, despite how responsible the janitor appeared.

“Very well, Mr. Lincoln, you may leave now.”

Instead of complying, the janitor let out a slight sigh before speaking again.

“Uh... Excuse me, Miss Ember, but I think I have some ideas that could be very useful for... for the company.”

Elizabeth tightly gripped the papers she held before standing up abruptly, which sent Mr. Lincoln recoiling in fear.

“Listen to me very carefully, Mr. Lincoln, you are a very good janitor, BUT NOTHING MORE... Don't meddle in company matters; your ideas are not needed,” Elizabeth Ember said authoritatively, her face threatening.

“Um... Uh... I apologize for... for my intrusion, Miss Ember.”

Mr. Lincoln shrank to the size of a scared puppy at his boss’s rebuke, yet he still showed great respect for her, conceding to her words. At that moment, Staxis leaned in to whisper something in my ear.

“Use your X Sense, kid.”

Not yet knowing where this would lead, he used it and was astonished; the janitor’s interior was ablaze with a gigantic, voracious flame that easily engulfed him. It was a profound and unconditional love for his boss; the years he spent by her side transformed his admiration into something stronger and more enduring... In contrast to her.

At the opposite **** was Elizabeth, who instead of a flame could barely be seen with a few tiny embers. In truth, she was a woman of steel who preferred to immerse herself in her work, becoming incapable of letting her emotions carry her away.

Fire and ice was what Tom was witnessing; he couldn't help but feel pity for him. After all, before meeting Staxis, his romantic/sexual life hadn't been much different.

“I see... Poor guy,” murmured the son of Eros.

“Well, it’s the story of many... But it’s time to intervene a little,” Staxis said, stepping forward and placing a hand on the boy's shoulder.

*Snap!*

With a snap that produced a supernatural sound resonating in Tom's ears, it was like an echo that vibrated not only through the office but the entire building or even more. The young man knew something magical had happened, though he was unsure what, until he saw an angry Elizabeth pointing her finger, yet motionless.

Out of his mind, Tom observed Mr. Lincoln, who had his head stuck to the ground, also immobile, as if he were a wax figure.

“Are they... frozen? It’s... it’s more than that, isn’t it?” Tom said, approaching the petrified janitor.

Staxis began to float above Elizabeth Ember with a triumphant air.

“You're right, kid; they are not frozen! I froze time!”