11:55.

Anton sits frustrated in his car, staring at the black stone down the street. One faint amber light was seen from a window. The target.

He glanced at his watch. Hologram words appeared. “ DIRECTIVE. Execute by midnight.”

11:56. Rain blurred the windows.

One hand on the door handle, and the other on the cool grip of his pistol. Knuckles stiff as welded joints. The target — an old friend, once brother in arms. They once were inseparable. Shared cigarettes. Dreams of leaving it all behind. Rain was their good harbinger. Now, one must die.

Anton gave one slow exhale. Four minutes left.

He crossed the street. Boots tapping the puddled pavement. Each step louder as he gets closer to the door. He enters without knocking. His head down, disclosing his identity. Rain dripped off his hat.

The man behind the desk smiled and greeted him, exhausted eyes but full of warmth.

11:59. Anton reveals his gun.

The smile faded from the man behind the desk. His eyebrows furrowed as he noticed who was in front of him.

“ Anton? “

Anton’s hand shook.

“ I’m sorry.”

The clock ticked midnight. One gunshot. Sounded out by the heavy rain. Only one man walked out.