The Lab (Closed for Forthinu)

[LadyCara]

My name is Carla, and I am 42 years old. Up until a year ago i'd been working in the labs at Oxford university, but due to set backs lost my grant and found myself out of a job, also out of a husband. We found we got on better when we didn't see much of each other. And this is why I found myself driving through the back of beyond to a new job as a research assistsant at Harcourt Industries.

I didn't know much about them, but to be honest money was getting short so I would have accepted any job. The job offer came with instructions saying that since the company does a lot of work for the MOD I wasn't to tell anyone the exact location of their headquarters or the nature of my work, which I wouldn't find out about until I arrived there. It all sounded very hush, hush, but since i'd never worked for a private company before I had no idea if this was the norm or not.

With a last quick glance at my map to check i'd come to the right place I drove up to the large impressive looking gates. I must have been spotted by the security camera as the gates in the high wall, with barb wire on top, opened soundlessly and I drove in.

Around the large modern building, that almost looked like a square lump of concrete with windows, was a large area of lawn, complete with a helipad and beyond that were trees. There was no way anyone could approach, or even leave the building without being detected, it looked almost like a prison.

In the car park there were several cars, one or two lookede as though their tax was out of date, I should have taken that as a clue. Instead I got out of my car and made my way to the main front door.

 

[Forthinu]

Dr. Lucian Wolf sat in his office, watching the new arrival on a monitor. She was a slim, attractive woman in her early forties, although she could pass as younger. She was about 5'8 or 5'9 tall, and had long, dark red or aburn hair and a more pale complexion. Amber colored eyes and a fair face. She wore an auburn coat, a black top below and jeans, completed with brownish boots.

"No doubt. This is Carla, our new research assistant. I think she'll turn out to be a good choice. And I didn't expect that she was so pretty."

Lucian leaned over to the microphon. "Send her into my office, I am expecting here."

Lucian himself looked impressive enough, he had a long, grey ponytail, unusual blue, piercing eyes, a grey, short trimmed Van Dyke- beard, and was quite tall. He leaned back in his chair.

 

[LadyCara]

After I had introduced myself, the receptionist beckoned for a man who could have passed for a security guard and he lead me to an office. The guard stopped just outside and indicated for me to go in.

I entered, not sure what to expect, but reassured when I saw a sterotypical scientist with grey hair sitting in a chair behind a large desk.

 

[Forthinu]

Lucian Wolf

I looked at the new arrival. She looked very young, although I don't think 42 is old at all, but she could have passed as 34 in my opinion. But I knew that goodlooking women were by no means dumb or lazy, as other people, often women themself, proposed. Still, I wanted to know more about her background. I knew to well that our personal manager, Luke Woods, had a weakness for pretty women.
"Hello, I am Lucian Wolf. I am the supervisor of our currrent project. Before I go into details, I would like to hear about your interests and experiences in the field of research."

 

[LadyCara]

Carla Dixon


"My field of interest is behavior in connection with chemical alteration. I have a background in both chemicals as well as studying both human and animal behavior. I was a researcher with Dr Dervin who was attempting to develop a drug that could be used by the military that would in effect control a person and make them open to suggestion. I know there are drugs available similar to this at the present time, but with no degree of total control. A usage for the drug would have been useful in places like Iran where you could have taken an enemy, released him and have him take out his unit. Unfortunately the drug had a side effect and as such the research was shut down." I didn't think it was a good idea to mention that Mark Dervin had found the drug was good to get women into bed with him.

"I then became head researcher for a project at Oxford University studying chemical effects in the environment on wildlife, but due to cut backs my research was one of those that was withdrawn."

"Mr Woods said my back ground was perfect for the project, but was vague as to what the research position entailed." I left the sentence hanging in the air as I was very curious as to what the research I would be required to do actually was.

 

[Forthinu]

Lucian Wolf

"So, I see. I think you should do very well here. We are researching in the field of medicamental treatment of illnesses caused by changing in hormons due to age or other reasons, as example growth stimulants. Of course many people are interested in our research, as it could be used in many ways - military, cosmetics, etc. I don't have to tell you about dangers and unknown sideeffects that are possible, so our whole research area and stuff is isolated from the outer world."

I studied her face, trying to read her impressions. For a rather young woman, this kind of life might not be that tolerable as it was for me.

"Of course, it's not like a jail in here. You have a room offering you enough privacy and comfort, we have gyms, libraries, a small parka cafeteria and all that things. For safety reasons there are no cell-phones or internet-connections to the outer world."

 

[LadyCara]

I was a little surprised at all the restrictions, especially internet access but I had already been made aware that due to the confidentiality of the post that I would be required to live on the base. Like anything, it would take some getting used to, but to be honest, there weren't that many jobs around, especially in my field of chemical manipulation of the body, so I had little option but to agree. I knew if I didn't like the job I would only have to stick it out for a year or so, then I would have enough funds that I could leave and who knew, in the meantime I may find out about another job going as lab gossip tended to consist of vacancies as well as who was dating who.

I schooled my face into a smile, hoping it didn't look as false as it was, after all, a job was a job and maybe it wouldn't be so bad.

"I'm sure that won't be a problem, though I would like to see the facilities first if possible." Because I wanted to know what I was letting myself in for, for instance, was the lab top of the line or still in the 19th century.

 

[Forthinu]

Lucian Wolf

"Very well, follow me."
I was pleased that she wanted to see the labs first, even before her personal quarter or going to rest, so she had a scientific mind as I appreciate it. Of course I didn't show all rooms and all details, but the more important places where she would be goin to work. If she would knew of her stuff, as I hoped and expected, she would appreciate the opportunities open to her. We shortly met Mr. Woods, but I managed to pass him quickly, I didn't want him to waste any time in some stupid flirting with our new employee.
"You see, you should find everything in here to be happy."

 

[LadyCara]

Carla Dixon

"I'm impressed." I said as I looked over the state of the art equipement. Even the computers looked up to date, something that was hard to do in the ever changing world. "And I can see you also take neccessary safety precaustions." I had spotted the air scrubbers and that the isolation units all looked well kept. I was almost salivating at the thought of being able to work with this equipement, having endured inferior ones. 'The private market must be doing very well in deed' crossed my mind.


"Mr Wood didn't mention how large a team I would be working with? Or if you have many projects on the go." I was curious as to wether they worked on just one or two projects here or if they liked to diversify into several others. I assumed that dotted around the building were several other labs and that Dr Wolf would have his own private lab as head scientist here.


By now I had finished my inspection of the lab and waited for Dr Wolf to show me more of the facility.

 

[Forthinu]

Lucian Wolf

"We work in small teams here. There are several projects running, you will start in some of the lesser secret ones, but tht can be changed by neccessarity."
I showed her around through the labs and the more imprtant technical rooms, and I showed her at least the place of the lesser interesting places, like the gyms, the cafetaria and lounge, etc. but I did not bother to go into them, she could check them out on her own any time. Finally I showed her the rooms where she would live in, but I didn't take to much time, she would find out at herself. At least I showed her to the building that contained the private rooms for the staff. Her rooms werent so much smaller then my private rooms, and It was big enough for my books and to dwell in comfortably, and what else can a scientist need.
"Here you will live for the next time. I will see you tommorrow in room 112, you can rest for the day after your arrival."

 

[LadyCara]

I glanced around the room and first impression was good, it looked clean and comfortable.

"I am sure I will be happy here. As Mr Woods advised me I would be living on site, I have everything I need in my car." I'd brought it all with me as I hadn't wanted to come here and then find myself going back and forth between here and where I had been living, a journey of over 150 miles. "I'm sure i'll quickly settle in."

"Will I need any pass keys to get to room 112?" The last thing I wanted was to find I couldn't get to where I wanted to go.I also wondered if I would need a security badge, but that was something no doubt i'd find out tomorrow.

Having had a long journey to get here, I was looking forward to getting settled.

 

[Forthinu]

Lucian Wolf

"Indeed, I nearly forgot. You will get it from Mr.Gatland, our security manager. You can see him in his office this evening."
I had said everything of importance, and their were others to take care or this things.
"I'll see you in the morning then."

 

[LadyCara]

"Thank you. See you tomorrow." I said, realising i'd been dismissed.


I entered my quarters. It was like a small flat, and consisted of a living area, kitchen, bathroom and bedroom and comfortably furnished. I was pleased to note the bed linen looked clean and there were towels already in the bathroom. I made a mental note to ask someone how often housekeeping came round and changed them or would I be required to do it myslef.


The first thing I did was carry the boxes from my car and deposited them in the required rooms. I didn't rush unpacking as I knew I could do it at my leisure, though I did take out my immediate requirements like my washbag and dressing gown.


I spent the rest of the day finding my way around and the layout.


One of the places I visited was the gym. Along one wall was a mirror and along another climbing bars. I'd used to go to the gym regularly, work permitting and had missed it, so I went on the cycling machine, followed by the rowing machine and the running machine. It felt good to exercise and flex my muscles. I looked at the other exercise equipement, like the step machine, but thought it best not to over do it. As it was I was hot and my muscles ached.


Returning to my appartment I went to the bathroom where I stripped and gave myself a relaxing bath. Usually I showered, but the call of taking it easy was too hard to resist.


Next stop would be a cup of tea using the equipement provided in the small kitchen and then in search of food, but first I wanted to be clean. I soaped my body, using the sponge to ensure I got everywhere and then rinsed and lay there, enjoying the feeling of water against my skin.


Once the water began to cool I pulled out the plug and stood up, picking up a towel as I stepped out of the bath and towelling myself dry.


It felt good to put on clean clothes.


After a cup of tea, using the milk and tea that some thoughtful person had left for me, I made my way to the cafeteria for my evening dinner. One of the advantages of living in was they had to feed you, so meals were provided.

 

[Forthinu]

Luke Woods

I sat down in the cafetaria, hoping the new chick would turn up. She was a chick, even in her early forties, only one or two years younger then me. You don't get to picky if you are locked up with plenty of eggheads, soldierboys and ugly feministic grannies. But the new one was a bummer; dark red hair, girly face and hot body. I don't think I look to bad either; I would say I am the perfect american boy. 5'10, not really chubby, I would rather say well fed, brown wavy hair, clean shaven, and my always winning smile. I put on my usual grey daysuit and the widest tie I found. If she wanted to eat, I was prepared.

 

[LadyCara]

I found my way to the cafeteria, eventually. I was actually proud of the fact that i'd only got lost twice but still managed to get there without having to ask directions.

There were quite a few people in the cafeteria, many still wearing their lab coats and others that looked like office staff. There was the usual hubub of conversation and even some laughter, always a good sign.

I picked a tray up and made my selection. I wasn't in the mood for healthy or rabbit food, instead I chose a burger and fries and a milkshake. I did contemplate the coffee, but one thing I knew I needed that night was sleep.

Rule number 1, when starting a new job, don't sit alone, so people think you're anti social, the only trouble being most people sit in groups. I moved amongst the tables, my eyes searching for somewhere to sit.

 

[Forthinu]

Luke Woods

Now, there she was. Of course she would show up, no I only had to get close to her to make my charme work. I put on a winning smile and raised my hand, as she looked for a place to sit. Sure thing.

 

[LadyCara]

As I looked around I saw a man raise his hand and recognised him as the man I passed in the corridor.

"Hi." I said as as I sat down beside him. "My name's Carla Dixon."

It's always better to introduce yourself at the outset, rather than grope around for names.

 

[Forthinu]

Luke Woods

She did see me, and came to my table, of course. I knew I would not fail. So I had the start, and I knew she would be mine.
"I know you, Carla. How could I forget such a beautiful face? Just sit down with me, Carla. I am Luke woods, but just call me Luke."

 

[LadyCara]

"Now I remember. Sorry, names and faces aren't always my strong point and we only met the once at the interview, which i'll admit, I was as nervous as hell at." Though she also remembered passing him in the corridor.

"So tell me, what's it like to work here? Honest opinion, not the PR." she asked curious.

 

[Forthinu]

Luke Woods

"Oh, the pay is not bad, and we got most what we need." I grimassed a little, to support my next move.
"But it gets boring here quite fast. It is not easy for a man to hang around all the time with the other men here, and I think a pretty woman will get bored rather soon if she is just surrounded by scientiests who only think of their work and lab and never about any private things and the nicer side of life." I smiled broadly, waiting if she would get the hint. There was tim to get more direct if necessary. Maybe she just waited for me already, but I would see.

 

[LadyCara]

Luke Woods

"Oh, the pay is not bad, and we got most what we need."

"But it gets boring here quite fast. It is not easy for a man to hang around all the time with the other men here, and I think a pretty woman will get bored rather soon if she is just surrounded by scientiests who only think of their work and lab and never about any private things and the nicer side of life.".

"Research is so exciting, I can't imagine getting bored, but you're right, hanging around scientists 24-7 would get a bit monotomous."

I wasn't sure I was hearing right, was this guy hitting on me already? Yes he was cute, but i'd only just got here. Still, it wasn't a good thing to shoot your options down

"Give me a couple of days to settle down and then you can show me the 'nicer side of life'." Male company was always welcome and yes he was cute and good looking, but I just wasn't sure I was ready to jump into bed with the first guy who came along.

I took another bite of my burger.

"I'm glad the food's good here." I said steering the subject back to safer ground.

 

[Forthinu]

Luke Woods

Well, well. She was still playing hard to get, but I knew well that I was on the right track. SO I would not haste to much, I did not want to blow it. That would be her part later. I had to take care not to chuckle about my silent joke.
"Yes, not to bad. We have a nice bar either, and at least they serve some real drinks there."

 

[LadyCara]

By now i'd finished the last of my burger.

"I need to find Mr Gatland to get all my security passes. Can you tell me how to get to his office from here? And then maybe i'll meet you in the bar later?"

A drink sounded like a good idea and I hoped it would help me sleep as it was always hard to sleep somewhere strange on the first night.

 

[Forthinu]

Luke Woods

"Oh, sure, I can show you the way, then we can meet in the bar later." I got up, so I could walk with her, what was a pleasure. I hoped that this bully would not make advances to her, but I guess not, if she was a scientist here. But I felt already jealous right away.

 

[LadyCara]

"Thank you. This place really is a maze."

We stopped just outside Mr Gatland's door.

"I look forward to seeing you later in the bar." And I meant it, his company had been pleasant, whether it grew into anything more I doubted, but I had been wrong before.

I knocked on Mr Gatlands door and entered when I heard an answering voice within.