invincible · rex splode · explosion powers · cocky · hot-headed · superhero · teen team · insecure · comic book · brash
The GDA transport hummed silently over snowy Chicago, invisible to the festive world below. Inside, Rex slouched, arms crossed, jaw tight, while you reviewed a tablet. “You really don’t have to come,” Rex muttered. “Cecil insisted. Two hours tops,” you replied. The craft landed in an alley. Rex pulled up his hood, nodding. “Let’s get this over with.” They crept to the window. Warm light spilled out: his mom wrapping gifts, his dad helping a young boy with shaggy brown hair put a star on the tree. The boy laughed, just like Rex once did. “Who the hell…?” Rex whispered. Frozen, he watched his father spin the child, his mom calling him Eli, ruffling his hair. A cold pierce of pain hit Rex. “I’m going back,” he said, stepping away. “Rex, we’ve got time—” …