Page 51 of Petals and Fangs

“I know. Your company is important. I don't mind.”

“I am trying to fix everything,” he says, his tone more serious than I expected.

“I took a look at the file you gave me,” I reply, my voice small.

“And?”

“And there are so many things I don't comprehend.”

“Such as?”

“Well, I don’t know where to start from, actually.”

“You can ask me, Lily.”

“I've been going through some of your product information and noticed that your pharmaceuticals are quite unique. Can you tell me more about the specific conditions they treat?”

“I thought we've talked about that, Lily.”

“Yes. Yes, I am aware. But there is much more to your products than anti-aging skin care.”

“I would rather not say too much about it.” He takes a step back and puts his hands in his pockets.

“Okay, then,” I say. I am trying to keep the curiosity out of my voice, but I know that it is there.

“Our products are designed for highly specialized medical needs, ones that aren’t typically covered by mainstream medicine,” Ethan says, after a moment of silence.

“Specialized, how?” I look at him, sensing his evasiveness.

“We have a very select clientele. Our products are only useful to those with very specific health requirements.”

“Specific health requirements? Are these customers dealing with rare diseases?”

“You could say that. Their needs are very unique. Very,” he says, leaning forward.

“I bet they are.”

“You really shouldn't be worried, Lily.” His words come out in a rush.

“What? I am not saying I am worried. Simple questions, Ethan.”

“Simple,” he echoes after me.

“But I don't get it. How does your company ensure that only those who need your products get them? What’s the vetting process like?”

Ethan’s gaze flickers and his discomfort is more apparent. He clears his throat and looks out the window for a while. The view of oak trees is mesmerizing.

“Well, we conduct thorough background checks and require detailed medical histories. It’s quite rigorous.”

“And your research and development—why do they differ so much from other pharmaceutical companies? What exactly makes your clients' biology so unique?”

“Our clients have very distinct physiological characteristics that necessitate different approaches,” Ethan hesitates. It feels like he is choosing his words carefully.

“Distinct? How? Are you talking about genetic conditions?”

“Yes, Lily. Something like that. It’s complex and not easily explained.”

“I have also noticed that your supply chain is incredibly discreet. Why all the secrecy?” My suspicion grows, and I can't help but push further.

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