“Sorry Ethan, seems like the drug didn’t work this time either.”

It was the same sentence Ethan has been hearing from his doctor. A long line of failed experimental drugs has left him despondent, any prior hope for a successful cure has long since evaporated from his heart. Having been born with a rare genetic condition, he did not have much hope to live past the age of 20.

“But hey, there’s this new experimental drug that just passed the early stages of testing. The company is called 'New Life Inc.', and they have a great track record when it comes to pionerring breakthroughts! From what I’ve seen, their product looks really promising! Shall I set an appointment for you tomorrow?”

Hearing the doctor’s energetic tone and seeing him try his best to look hopeful, Ethan could only squeeze out a smile of his own. After the doctor explained some key details of the experiment to Ethan and handed him a factsheet, Ethan left for home.

Ethan had long given up on being cured, he only went for them to give his parents some sort of reassurance. Maybe a cure will be developed in a few generations, but he did not expect it to come within in his limited lifetime. Nowadays, he’s been fully immersing himself in movies and TV shows during his free time. In a way. the “lives” being portrayed were like the many potential future he would have if he had more time. Being able to think that way gave him some comfort when it came to facing his future.

On reaching home, Ethan adamantly pushed aside any thoughts of the new experimental drug that the doctor introduced, refusing to believe any sort of hope that his doctor had hinted at. Sure, he yearned for it, but experience had taught him that chances were slim. Instead, Ethan started up Netflix and continued with the next episode of FRIENDS.

It sure would be nice to have such close friends. Being able to hang out with them, fight, play, share stories… Life sure would be fun…

It must be mentioned that due to Ethan’s illness and his parent’s fervent hope to cure it, Ethan had changed schools every time something hopeful had appeared in the next city over. This coupled with his sickly nature made it difficult for him to forge friendships, and any friends made quickly lost contact when distance became a variable. Sure, social media allowed some form of communication, but it felt different then when he could see them in school. So Ethan could yet again only rely on external means to enjoy the many things he life he had and will miss out on.

...

The next day, Ethan set out to the address of the appointment. After wandering around the area, somewhat lost, he finally found the location. Entering the lobby of one of those skyscraper-like business building, he found the representative he was meeting with. After some quick introductions, he followed the representative, who introduced himself as George, through the security area and up the lift. George exuded the air of a typical businessman, wearing a suit and pasting on a friendly smile on his face.

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“Excuse the mess, we are just about done with renovations. Just a few minor details here and there that needs to be sorted out.”

Ethan was greeted with the bare skeleton of an office space, and he could see how the office could transform into any of the many office scenes that he had seen and fantasized working in.

“But that’s not what you are here for. You’re the last volunteer we need, and I am very grateful for your participation. I really hope we’ll have an enjoyable time, and I look forward to it. Now let me start by explaining what the ‘New Life Inc.’ has been working on.”

George proceeded to explain the aims of the drug, its inner-workings and so on. Most of it were no different than gibberish to Ethan, and he just let the information flow in a ear and out the other. Nodding every so often to feign understanding, Ethan instead started wondering how George’s life was like.

Bet I could practice till I achieve that friendly and patient smile he has on.

His hair looks neat, wonder how often he goes to the salon. Every week? Or is it every day?

How much does his make, he has a Rolex watch. Come to think of it, his shoes looked expensive too. Wonder what other luxury stuff he has.

A ring, he’s married. Wonder if his love life is like anything I’ve watched. Maybe he has kids too. Hmm, one of those distant fathers? Nah, he doesn’t seem like it, he probably plays soccer with them every weekend. That what I would do…

“So that’s about it, do you have any questions for me Ethan?”

Ethan quickly surfaced from his thoughts, shaking his head to indicate he had none.

“Ok then, well here are some papers for you to sign. I’m sure you know how it is, the same typical non-liability waivers and forms that you have signed for those other experimental drug trials.”

Ethan frowned mentally on hearing that.

Did doc tell him that? Whatever happened to patient doctor confidentiality… Well whatever, doesn’t really matter, none of my information will matter in a few years

Receiving the papers, Ethan proceeded to skim through and sign them. Having no expectations of living long, Ethan did not really care if the papers were actually some sort of authorisation for the New Life Inc. to sell off his organ. Not that it would actually be…

“Great, everything is in order. Here’s your participant card, do keep it on you at all times as it is very important. I shall go get the doctor on duty and proceed with the first steps.”

With the same friendly, polite smile plastered on his face, George passed over a white plastic card before exiting the room. Looking at his participant card, Ethan couldn’t help but laugh, especially at the “goal” that was stated on it.

“Survive till the end”. That sure is a cheesy goal. But why do I have a nickname as ‘White’, and my role as a ‘Civilian’? Seems like an odd word to use… But then again, having a goal as ‘Survive till the end’ and the name ‘New Life Inc.’, I guess this company is just a little quirky.

George returned a few minutes later with an older man wearing a doctor’s coat in tow. The doctor sat beside him and opened up his suitcase, revealing syringes, bottles and other medical equipment. Without a word, the doctor proceeded to swab his arm before using a syringe to inject Ethan with a clear transparent liquid. Ethan winced as he watched the fluid slowly get pushed into his arm.

“Hm, well give it a bit, and I shall see you soon. I wish you all the best Ethan.”

Ethan glanced at George who had the usual friendly smile on his face. But Ethan noticed something else, a hint of mischief… Or was it sarcasm? Trying to read the expression on George’s face, Ethan realised that his consciousness was slipping away while George’s grin seemed to grow wider and more sinister.

Shit… Did I actually sign my organs away?