Based on the way Caleb is smirking at me, I’m failing.
“So,” Caleb says, dropping into Serena’s vacated chair. “Interesting meeting.”
“The simulation data is promising.” I keep my voice neutral. “If we can maintain stability through?—”
“I’m not talking about the simulation data.” He leans back, arms crossed, wearing the expression of a man about to enjoy himself immensely. “I’m talking about you and Audrey.”
“Nothing’s going on.”
“Right. That’s why you were both late. Why you keep sneaking glances. Why your mouths look like?—”
“Caleb.” Bennett’s voice cuts in. “Save the cross examination for after we finalize the testing schedule.”
“I’m just observing.”
“Observe quieter.”
Caleb subsides, but the smirk doesn’t leave his face. Across the table, Landon is reviewing something on his tablet, apparently oblivious to the undercurrent in the room. Or maybe just choosing to ignore it.
“The next phase of testing will require twenty-four-hour monitoring for the first seventy-two hours, two people in the lab at all times,” Landon says. “Logan, can you assemble a team to handle that?”
“Yes.” I grab onto the work question like a lifeline. “I’ll set up rotating shifts. Audrey and I will take the overnight slots—we know the system best.”
“Overnight slots,” Caleb murmurs, just loud enough for me to hear. “Convenient.”
I kick him under the table.
“Ow.” He doesn’t even have the grace to look apologetic. “That was my shin.”
“I know.”
Bennett sighs the sigh of a man who has managed these people for too long. “Can we please focus? Landon, what’s the timeline for FDA submission once we clear clinical protocols?”
The conversation shifts to regulatory requirements and documentation deadlines. I try to follow along, but my attention keeps drifting toward the door. How long does it take to use the bathroom? Serena and Layla followed her in there. They’re probably extracting every detail of what happened in the lab right now.
My phone buzzes. I glance at the screen.
Dominic:
heard there’s a team dinner happening without me. rude.
also heard you and Audrey showed up late together. VERY interesting.
call me later. i want details.
actually no. text me. calling is for old people.
unless it’s REALLY good, in which case call me immediately.
I look up from my phone, eyes narrowing as I scan the room.
“Who told Dominic?” I demand.
Bennett looks up from his tablet. “Told him what?”
“That Audrey and I were late. He’s texting me about it.”
“Wasn’t me.” Bennett holds up his hands. “I’ve been running this meeting.”
