‘It’s called Neurohydroxy-14.’
Sandy didn’t answer straight away. But she did wonder how on earth a small-town Cumbrian detective had figured out they used the compound in their laboratory which was five and a half thousand miles away in San Diego. She stayed on the phone out of fascination with the woman who was in charge of seeking the truth. How much she discovered was up to Hank Hampton, and Sandy’s money was on the Texan.
‘I’m asking your professional opinion as a scientist, Sandy. I just want to learn a little more about it.’
‘Who told you it was inYouthBlast? That’s a lie.’
‘Is it? Oh, well I stand corrected. I’m all ears. Perhaps you could enlighten me on which active compound is in it, if it isn’t Neurohydroxy-14.’
Sandy couldn’t think of anything to tell her.
‘I can’t find any information on the compound online. Isn’t that unusual?’
‘Not for something that doesn’t exist,’ Sandy said, feeling clever.
‘How do you know it doesn’t exist?’
‘Pardon?’
‘Well, you seem very sure. I thought science was about gathering data and making observations about something that we don’t understand. If you have never heard of Neurohydroxy-14 then how could you possibly say it doesn’t exist?’
Sandy was trapped.
‘On theYouthBlastwebsite it lists it in an appendix.’
‘I have heard of it.’ Sandy backtracked.
‘Oh, so can you tell me what it is?’
‘From memory, I think it’s a hormone combined with a few other elements to make a diuretic-like energy boost.’ Sandy walked towards the garden making sure nobody could hear her. Her heart raced.
‘So, why isn’t it banned?’
‘Why should it be banned?’
‘An article from 1989 in the Journal of Modern Science called it a bioweapon and stated that it should never be used for human consumption.’
‘Right. Well, you have done your homework. But the ingredient listed on the website must be a derivative.’
‘Did Jamie know how dangerous it is?’
‘We didn’t discuss it.’
‘You’re sure?’
‘Yes.’
‘Were you aware that it is considered a bioweapon?’
‘That’s ridiculous,’ Sandy said. The space under her ribs hurt. She needed a cigarette and an alcoholic drink. She was on private property now, and she was safe, but she didn’t feel it.
‘Why do you say that? I thought scientists considered evidence. You’re dismissing claims without examining them first.’
Sandy wanted desperately to hang up. This woman was incorrigible.
‘I mean I don’t deal with biohazards, so I can’t help you with that. Like I said, I’ve heard of it because I know its elements are made up of testosterone, glutamate, lactic acid and a thiazide diuretic.’
‘That’s quite specific.’
