Baby's Alternate Ending

Prologue:
The baby’s wail grew faint as the medicine did its job. Two hands pressed the minuscule chip against the base of the baby’s neck while the machine inserted it under the skin with utmost dexterity. When the operation was complete, there was no scar visible. The computer nearby made a beeping noise, recording the birth of yet another American citizen. In the next room, another baby was also going through the same process, but the doctor failed to notice that the computer remained as silent as the baby, depriving the world of the child’s existence. Sixteen years later … After what seemed like forever, the bell finally rang, announcing the end of the school day. “Class, you may leave now. Have a wonderful weekend,” Mrs. Erikson called as the students poured out into the hallway. Sixteen-year-old Joseph Adler hoisted his keepsack onto his shoulder and glanced back at his best friend, Adam Steller, who was absorbed in his latest choice of novel. “Hey Adam, school’s over. Come on.”Adam shoved his book
” Adam whispered as he and Joseph hurried along. “I don’t know,” Joseph replied, running a hand through his hair.”That was just really weird. I have to get home now. I’m already late and my parents will be worried.” Adam waved goodbye and sprinted off to his house. As Joseph was closing the front door after stepping into the house, his mother, Mrs. Adler, rushed over and enveloped him into a huge hug. “Oh thank goodness you are alright! It was getting so late and you weren’t coming home. I was so scared something had happened!” Joseph gasped for breath in his mother’s constricting arms. “Don’t worry, mom. I’m perfectly fine. I saw something kind of scary happen, though.“ Before his mother could speak, a huge booming voice filled the house. “Guess who’s here! “ Mr. Adler announced as he gave his wife a hug and ruffled Joseph’s hair. Joseph laughed and swatted at his hand.”Stop that, dad. It takes forever to get my hair to stay