The SCP Experience - Other Adam | SCP-038

Episode Date: May 19, 2025

Desperate for more time, a man secretly clones himself using the mysterious SCP-038—only to discover that the version of him who returns home may not be the copy… and he may not be the original. This story was derived from ⁠⁠https://scp-wiki.wikidot.com/scp-7302⁠ and is released under Creative Commons Sharealike 3.0. ⁠⁠https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/⁠⁠ * * * DISCLAIMER: This episode contains explicit content. Parental guidance is advised for children under the age of 18. Listen at your own discretion. #thescpexperience #scp #scpfoundation #scpencounters #securecontainprotect #scpstories Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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Concour. The Reglements the Concour Sapplic. Mr.s are down in 23 again. I barely glanced up in time

to catch the watering can Jack threw at me. You better get started if you want to get out of here on time. I sighed and put my sandwich down. Can't the newbie do it? Jack frowned. Absolutely not.

You know what's down there. Right. I guess it's me then. Jack flashed a cheeky grin as I exited the break room, the metal watering can banging against my leg. I'd only ever been to site 23 a few times, and never unaccompanied. The mister had a tendency to break fairly,

often when I started my job, but this was the first time I'd been tasked with the watering since I became a senior repairman. I was pretty used to the strange objects and places around the foundation base, but I never forgot the first time I entered Site 23 and saw the tree of life. It could replicate anything, even humans. All it took was a single touch to the tree bark. Workers were strictly warned against touching it or using it for any purpose other than and foundation business. Rumor has it, when they tested its use for human cloning, the clones began to decompose within two weeks.

I'd always wanted a clone of myself, and never more than right now. It was becoming increasingly difficult to juggle work, friends, family, and CC. There was just never enough time for everything, and everyone constantly wanted more attention than I could give them. But if they were two of me, I could make everyone happy, including myself, what could possibly go wrong. The idea came to me when Cece presented me with a bonsai tree for my birthday. It immediately brought back memories of the tree of life.

And when C.C. complained about me hanging out with the guys that evening, I wondered how much easier life would be with two of me. The plan developed from there, and it was going smoothly. The Misters weren't actually broken, of course. It was surprisingly easy to hack into my boss's account and send the memo. And it was no surprise that, as the newest senior, I was chosen to fix the problem. I took my time dawning the hazmat suit, allowing a few other workers to see me as they passed by. With the watering can in hand, I entered the greenhouse and made a bee line for the tree.

I slowed down as I glanced at the clock, which read 128. I had two minutes to kill. I pretended to check the various plants until the clock read 130, which was when the cameras would switch to pre-recorded footage for exactly five minutes. My heart was hammering in my chest as I removed a glove and neared the tree of life. It was just as beautiful as I remembered. The trunk was about five feet wide, and the towering boughs that spread above formed a thick canopy of fresh green leaves.

I bit my lip and glanced around once more to make sure no one was in the greenhouse. Then I touched the tree. It was only for a second, a quick brush of the bark, and my glove was back on. I hadn't felt anything special. For a moment, I thought it didn't work. Then I heard a faint rustling in what sounded like a baby crying. I glanced around the nearby bushes, and sure enough, there was a newborn whimpering. My heart dropped to my feet.

This wasn't right. This wasn't what I wanted. But the baby transformed before my eyes, growing rapidly into a toddler, a child, a teenager, and finally, an adult. The whole process took around one minute. I gaped in awe as I recognized the awkward stages my body had gone through over the years. Thank goodness I had fixed my acne problem. Now, a man stood in front of me. He had the same must, brown hair, blue eyes, and fair complexion as me. He even had the telltale mole in the center of his neck. A chill passed over me as I stared at him. He smiled, and I suddenly remembered that I was low on time.

Here, I removed a pair of clothes from beneath the hazmat suit and tossed them at him. Put these on, quick. Got it, he nodded. Then I'll sneak out, take an Uber home and wait for you there. Yes, yes, that's exactly the point. How did you know that?" He shrugged. I'm you. It made sense. But I expected to have to tell him what to do, not that he would have my exact brain and memories. I suppose that made things easier, really. He had the

clothes on and a flash, and with a glance at the clock, he slipped out the greenhouse door and was gone. I could only hope that he really was going home. For a split second, I panicked, wondering if I had just set a clone of myself loose to do whatever he wanted. But if he was me, then he would want this plan to work out just like I did. I shook my head and tried to calm my racing heart. Everything was going to be fine. The rest of the workday passed slowly as I was anxious to get home and make sure the other Adam was there.

However, Jack invited me for a drink after work, and I felt compelled to say yes, so he wouldn't think anything was wrong. I stumbled into my apartment just after midnight. The lights were on, and for a moment, I thought Cece might have dropped by. I tiptoed to the bedroom, ready for her to yell at me for forgetting plans again, but it wasn't her sleeping form in my bed. It was me.

I screamed, and it wasn't until the other Adam shot up and looked at me that I remembered what I had done. Are you all right? He asked. I'm fine. I just forgot about you. He bowed. And I knew his next words before he said them, because it's exactly what I would have said. I'm hurt.

I shook my head, hoping I would eventually get used to having him around. Scooch over, I'm tired. He made room for me, and I got in next to him, suddenly feeling sober. There is nothing stranger than lying next to yourself in bed. But I didn't have the heart to make him sleep on the couch. Besides, I couldn't risk it in case Cece walked in and saw him there. I reached into my night table and took a swig of scotch. A habit, Cece deplored.

but I found I couldn't quit. Sleep came quickly, and my dreams seemed tame compared to my reality. I awoke with a yawn and a stretch. It was unusually warm and sunny in the bedroom. It was typically dark when I got up for work, but the other Adam had already left hours ago. I had the whole day to myself. I grabbed my phone to check the time

and found a good morning text from Cici. I replied quickly and got up to grab coffee from the kitchen. It wasn't until the phone started to buzz that I realized I had made a terrible mistake. Cici must have been wondering what I was doing texting her at 10.30 in the morning. I had no choice but to answer the call, or she'd be even more suspicious. Hello? I said hesitantly. Are you not at work today? I lit out a sigh and plopped back onto the bed.

No, actually. I'm not feeling well, so I stayed home. Oh, you poor thing. I've got the afternoon free. I'll pop by with some soup later. I frowned. No, no, that's all right. I don't want you getting sick, too. I was hoping she couldn't hear the desperation in my voice. Don't worry about getting me sick.

I've got to go now, but I'll come over later. Before I could say another word, she hung up. I threw the phone down beside me and heaved a sigh. Having Cece over was not in my plans for the day, but I had no choice now. I donned a pair of pajamas and made myself comfortable in front of the TV, so I would be ready when she arrived. I was dozing when I heard the door open.

C.C. swooshed in, having led herself in like always, even though I told her countless times to knock first. I wouldn't have even given her a key if she hadn't begged me for one. But now here she was, hands full of soup and a pitying look on her face. She sat down beside me and placed a hand on my forehead. I instinctively jerked away, she frowned. What's wrong? I just... I don't want you getting sick, her eyes softened. That's sweet. Now, you just lie there and let me take care of you.

What I really wanted was for her to leave, but I sat obediently as she brought me the soup and prepared a mug of tea. She made one for herself too, indicating that she was planning to stay. I willed myself to relax as she sat beside me again, albeit with more distance between us than before. I watched her as I sipped the soup. And it suddenly struck me that we hadn't done this in a long time. We were always busy doing something.

But I couldn't remember the last time we simply sat together. It was nice. Cici saw me looking and blushed. What? I just... I hesitated, trying to put it into words. When I found that I couldn't, I shrugged and said, I'm glad you came.

She smiled and my heart warmed at the sight. When was the last time I saw that smile? The soft smile of someone who loved me. I felt bad for the way I thought about her earlier, how I hadn't wanted her here. After all, wasn't that the whole point of cloning myself? So I could spend more time with loved ones? You really must be sick. Why is that?

You just seemed different than usual. I was so tempted to tell her then, to reveal why I wasn't worried about missing work, and how I was excited to have extra time. I'm with her now, but of course, I couldn't. Instead, I shrugged and smiled back. Maybe different as the new normal. She stared at me as if I was a puzzle she couldn't solve. Finally, she said so softly that I almost didn't hear.

I hope so. Beanie, via Rai. Embarked and profite. Embarked and relax. Syrot, booquin, bookine. Oh, that also. and profite. Via Raille, the voice that we love.

Cece and I spent the afternoon talking and watching TV while drinking mug after mug of tea. We were having such a nice time that I almost forgot I had a clone coming home soon. Other Adam had the work phone, so I could text him, but if he couldn't go home, where would he go? Cece insisted that she would stay the night, but I convinced her that I simply needed rest, and she would be better off going home. She finally agreed when I said I would make it up to her on a date night. Other Adam showed up only a few minutes later. Apparently, work went off without a hitch,

and nobody suspected anything about the cloning. I could only hope that would remain the case. Things continued smoothly over the next few days. I cleaned the apartment, and finally did all the errands I'd been putting off while other Adam was at work. I called my mom, who I hadn't spoken to in weeks. I almost wished I hadn't, because she reminded me of my nephew's birthday party that weekend and made me swear I would go.

I was meant to go to a barbecue with friends, but this presented me with a great opportunity to utilize other Adam outside of work. While he went to the barbecue, I made my way to my brother's house. I planned to arrive without a gift, but thought better of it and bought a Lego set on the way. After all, what kid didn't love Legos? The backyard was a hub of activity when I arrived. Children were running around screaming. Adults were gathered in groups with drinks in their hands, and a strange-looking clown was trying to make something with balloons.

I thought about the barbecue other Adam was enjoying and tried not to be jealous. Now that I had the time, I was putting family first, even if it gave me a headache. Adam? I clapped my brother on the shoulder and nodded hello to his wife. Chris, how are you? Good. I'm good. I didn't think you were coming.

frowned. Why wouldn't I come? He shrugged. Well, usually you're so busy with things, and you hardly ever visit. Would I miss my nephew's birthday? I said in a shocked tone. You missed the first six, Chris's wife, Cindy, replied. I closed my mouth and thought back on the past six years. Had I really missed every one of Finn's parties? Last year, I had a work event, and the year before I had plans with Cece, but I couldn't remember farther than that. I couldn't remember a single one of Finn's birthday parties. I really had missed them all. I glanced across the lawn at my nephew, who was stuffing his face with cake. How had I let seven years go by without ever getting to know him? Tears formed in my eyes, and I tried to blink them

away. Adam, are you okay? I looked at my brother and shook my head. I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. Chris didn't seem to know what to say. Why are you sorry now? Cindy asked, suspiciously. Listen, I've been doing some work on myself, reorganizing my priorities and stuff like that. And I'm realizing that I've made a lot of mistakes. But I'm going to try to do better.

I'm going to try to be there for you guys, for mom and for Finn. I'm going to become the man I always should have been. Chris had tears in his own eyes now. And Cindy grabbed my hand in hers and gave it a squeeze. That's great to hear, Adam, Chris replied. His voice a higher pitch than normal. That's really great to hear. I coughed back the rest of my tears.

So, where is the birthday boy? Cindy smiled and said, I'll bring him over. Another Adam told me about the barbecue that night. I wasn't even jealous. I had a great time with my family, and I wouldn't have traded it for anything. My time with other Adam was slowly running out,

but I realized that I didn't even know. need him. It was convenient to skip out on work, but I was learning how to plan my life on my own and figure out what was most important to me. I didn't have to do everything and make everyone happy. I just had to do what made me happy. I considered sending other Adam on my big date with Cece, but decided against it. If I was really going to be this new man, I had to start now. She seemed nervous when I picked her up, but insisted that everything was fine. Where are we going anyway? She asked once we got into the car.

I thought I would take you to your favorite restaurant. That Italian place you always rave about. Her jaw dropped. Are you taking me to Chibo? Really? I couldn't help but laugh at her excitement. Of course. Why not?

I thought you didn't like it. And it's kind of expensive. I placed my hand on her thigh and shot her a dashing smile. Anything for my girl. She smiled back. but there was something about her that seemed almost sad. I couldn't put my finger on it, and it was still there when we sat down at the restaurant.

After ordering the wine, I took her hand in mine across the table. Cece, won't you tell me what's wrong? Her lower lip wobbled and she looked away. I wasn't going to say anything until later, but I suppose now is as good a time as any. I leaned forward. I'm listening. Adam, I think we should break up.

What? I fell back in my chair and let go over hands. What are you talking about? Why? Oh, Adam, don't pretend you haven't noticed that things have been different between us. What do you mean? You've been slowly drifting away. You spend more time at work and with your friends than you do with me. I can't help but feel like I'm simply a burden to you.

My heart was hammering in my chest as she spoke. That's not true! She gave me a look, and I realized that it was true. I had been taking her for granted over the past few months. If you want to go off and see other girls, that's fine, but I won't stick around to watch. What other girls? I knew exactly what she was talking about, but acknowledging it wouldn't fix anything now. Cece, don't do this.

I love you. Can't you see that I love you? I'll admit, this past week, I was reconsidering this conversation. But just because you've been a bit more attentive now doesn't mean things will change for But they will. Cece, listen, I know I've messed up, but I promise you that I'm trying to do better. Please don't leave me, Cece. You're the best thing in my life.

Tears were streaming down her face, and she seemed to hesitate. Cece, I don't want other girls. I only want you. In fact, I want you forever. Cece, will you marry me? I wasn't planning to say the words, but when I did, they felt right. Sisi was the woman for me. I had past discrepancies, but they were mistakes.

All I ever needed was Sisi. Her jaw dropped as she looked at me. Are you serious? She sniffled. More serious than I've ever been. She continued to stare at me, and every moment without an answer was agony. I didn't know what I would do if she said no.

Finally, she nodded, and her sobs turned to laughter. Yes, yes, I'll marry you. The whole restaurant broke into applause as I hugged her to my chest. I felt happier than I could ever remember. And it was all thanks to my clone. I would have to do something nice for him before his time was up. But just as I had the thought, the door opened and I stepped into the restaurant with a girl. Thankfully, Cece was facing the other direction, so she didn't spot me, I mean him.

My eyes widened and I shoot him away. He took in the scene and a strange expression came over his face. Before I could interpret it, he was gone, the girl with him. Rage exploded in my veins, but I tamped it down for Cece's sake. I would have a talk with Other Adam later. Tonight was Cece's night. We had a lovely evening and ended up going back to her place. She wanted me to stay the night, but I insisted on going home. I had to talk to Other Adam before he ruined my life. He was waiting for me when I got in. What the hell do you think you're doing? screamed at each other at the same time.

You're ruining my life! We said at the same time again. We growled in frustration, and he held up a hand for me to be quiet. Did you propose to Cecee tonight? Yes, I did. She's the love of my life. Do you have a problem with that? Yes! He threw his hands into the air.

Why? I demanded. Because this isn't your life! Silence followed his words as I struggled to digest them. A shiver ran through me, and my words, words became a whisper. What do you mean? I made you so you could get Cece and my family off my back for a while, and I could finally

have some fun. That's it. And now you're ruining everything. You. My brain was struggling to catch up. That's not possible. You're the other atom. I made you.

I've been making my life better. I'm becoming a better person. The Adam across from me slapped a palm on his forehead. That's not what you were supposed to do. Now everyone is going to expect me to be this relationship family man. That's not who I am. That's not who I want to be. Exactly.

That makes you the other Adam. He looked at me with pity in his eyes, and my stomach twisted. You're lying, I whispered. He scoffed. It's been almost two weeks. Haven't you noticed your body shutting down? I had been more tired than usual the past two days, but what of it? Take a look at yourself, man.

You're falling apart. hard. He jerked my sleeve up to reveal a spot of rotting flesh. I gaped at the spot and quickly removed my shirt and pants to find similar spots all over my body. They weren't there earlier today. He was right. I was literally decomposing. No, no, this can't be happening. I tugged my shirt over my head again as I thought out loud. I can hide this. I still have a few days. I can't let you throw away all the hard work I've done. Adam's cold voice sounded behind me. You've done more harm than good. Time's up, Adam.

I didn't even have time to turn around before the bullet found my skull, and other Adam was gone for good. SCP 38 is a tree, located at Site 23, with the anomalous ability to instantly clone any object that touches its bark, producing mature copies within minutes and up to a weight limit of 200 pounds. Initially discovered on an abandoned farm in New York, it was mistaken for a regular apple tree, until it began producing various non-fruit objects, such as electronics, food, furniture, animals, and even humans.

While cloning inanimate objects is relatively safe, human and animal clones exhibit rapid aging and typically die within two weeks due to internal fermentation. SCP-38 is maintained with twice-daily watering via overhead mister, and any personnel interacting with it must wear hazmat suits to prevent accidental cloning. There are no current plans to relocate it.