“You got'em?” Taylor asks with a deadpan expression.

“Yeah. One of our guys nabbed him on the road.” Brollie says, his voice almost uninterested.

“Fuck. Now that I think about it, this guy was just a delivery dude. Why the fuck would I be involved in that?” Taylor asks, feeling dumb.

“Yeah, I don't know man. You seemed kind of out of it last time I saw you. I thought you could use a road trip.” Brolly admits before laughing out loud. “Besides, it's better than sitting on your own wallowing in your own crap.” Brolly says honestly.

“This isn't really about being a man, Taylor. We're all human. A kill is going to take a toll. No matter how tough you are.” Brolly says with a sigh.

“Fuck, are you looking out for me?” Taylor asks with some disbelief. “Whatever, I'm the best that there ever was. A few kills won't do much.” Taylor says, pushing on.

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“Whatever, bro. At least you got to chill at home for a few days.” Brolly says before continuing. “Stay a little longer before coming back to town in a week or so. There's a job waiting for you when you get here.” Brolly says, getting back to business. “And this is from the higher-ups.” He says, gravity in his voice.

“Alright. Thanks for the heads up. See you later.” Taylor says before ending the call.

…

…

Taylor's mom opens the door and walks into the house.

“Wow, would you look at that. This place is spotless.” Taylor's mom says with a smile. “Taylor, get out here.” She calls out.

Taylor walks out of his room and sees his mom in the hallway. “What do you think? Pretty clean, right?” Taylor says with some pride.

“Pretty clean, indeed. All the mess you made as you were growing up is almost worth it. I'm proud of you, son. Now you can hold your head up high, with the knowledge that you were able to clean a house once. Good job.” Taylor's mom says with some sarcasm before giving Taylor a pat on the head.

Taylor didn't care about the sarcasm. He saw that his mom was happy and he was glad for it.

“Thanks, mom.” Taylor says with a smile.

“Now get out before I see you make a mess of it.” Taylor's mom says playfully.

Taylor gives an awkward laugh. “I'll be leaving tomorrow. Put up with it for a day.” Taylor says before heading back to his room.

“How ‘bout you cook dinner too?” Taylor's mom calls out from the kitchen.

“I'm sure you can handle it.” Taylor says before closing the door.

Taylor's mom shakes her head. “Lazy kid. I could use a hand making dinner; but no one ever asks, do they?” She mumbles to herself.