Lark did not return to the hospital again. He worked from home mostly and had carved out a career for himself as an author. He made more than enough money to support himself and added to the fortune he had built up over the years.

When the doorbell rang a few days after he had visited Lynn in the hospital, he was surprised. He was not expecting anyone. He had few visitors since as an author he was able to maintain a largely reclusive lifestyle which served him well.

He made his way to the door to answer it. As he reached the door, he felt his transformation begin. He...