Page 53 of Obsessed

"With respect, I was tasked with finding botanical solutions to benefit the Athenaverse. This discovery could help millions suffering from chronic inflammation and autoimmune conditions. I'd say that's precisely on course."

The room falls silent. Director Voss's compound eyes study me intently.

"The molecular structure is remarkably stable," I continue, highlighting specific compounds. "And preliminary trials show no signs of dependency or dangerous interactions. We could have this ready for clinical trials within the year."

"And you're certain about these results?" Chen asks.

"I stake my reputation on them." I meet each of their gazes. "I know I'm human, and some of you may doubt my capabilities because of that. But these findings speak for themselves. The data is irrefutable."

"Thank you, Dr. Watson, you may wait outside while the board deliberates."

I nod, forcing a smile, and step outside. This part is always the worst. The moment when they don't discuss the research itself, but rather how marketable the scientist behind it is.

As a human, I'm not much at all.

I pace the sterile hallway outside the board room, my heels clicking against the polished floor. The sound echoes off the walls, matching my racing heartbeat. My hand keeps drifting to my pocket where my communicator sits silent. No messages from Davrik.

"He's fine," I whisper to myself. "He knows what he's doing."

And what he's doing —what he promised he was doing— is taking care of the Stardust. The cargo blended in perfectly with my own, and no one asked questions when I brought a marooned pilot on board with me. But now, the moment of truth.

I trust he'll do the right thing.

A young intern passes by, giving me a strange look. I force myself to sit in one of the sleek chairs lining the wall. My leg bounces as I check the time again.

The wait is excruciating. I close my eyes, remembering Davrik's words this morning: "You've got this, little scientist. Show them what humans can do."

The memory of his confidence in me helps steady my nerves, but I still wish he was here. His solid presence would make this easier. Even if he had to wait out here with me, just having him nearby would help.

My communicator buzzes. I practically jump out of my skin, fumbling to check it.

No message from Davrik. Just a reminder about tomorrow's lab meeting.

"Dr. Watson?" The board's assistant appears in the doorway. "They're ready for you."

I stand, smoothing my blazer. My palms are damp, and I wipe them quickly on my pants before following her back into the board room.

The lights seem brighter now, more intense. The executives' faces are unreadable as I take my place before them again. Director Voss's antennae are perfectly still - never a good sign with his species.

"Please, have a seat," Chen gestures to the chair positioned in front of their long table.

I lower myself into it, trying to project confidence I don't quite feel. The silence stretches out, making my skin prickle with anticipation.

Director Voss's antennae finally twitch. "Dr. Watson, your discovery presents us with an... interesting situation."

My fingers curl into my palms. Here it comes - the dismissal, the patronizing pat on the head.

"We sent you to Meltor IV expecting agricultural applications." Chen's lips purse. "Instead, you've brought us what could be the biggest pharmaceutical breakthrough of the decade."

"I-" I start, but Voss raises a hand.

"The board is divided on how to proceed. On one hand, you went outside your assigned parameters." His compound eyes reflect the holoscreen's glow. "On the other hand, the potential profits from this discovery are... substantial."

"More than substantial," another board member mutters.

"Therefore," Voss continues, "we've decided to fast-track development. You'll join the research team as a consultant, drafting cultivation and extraction process procedures."

My breath catches. "Consultant?"

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