Page 94 of Dream Girl
Things I’d only dreamed about proving werebecoming reality here.
“It’s still only a partial theory, but yes, we’re trying to build actual working prototypes. Oh.” He paused. “You’re not that far.”
“No. It’s all math and simulation, and trying to build computers actually able to run our simulations.” Excitement built within me as another memory bubble popped. “That… that’s what we were doing. Running simulations, trying to get the math right. We’d mess around and do other things, too. Ah, the simulations you run when bored.” I laughed.
“Boredom is the gateway to brilliance,” he stated as we went to see their new particle accelerator.
“This is the size of a stove,” I breathed as I examined it. “The ones I used were much larger.” Miles long. What a marvel. “Isthis using particle-charged plasma and lasers?” I’d read about the potential.
“Indeed. If you were working on a quantum computing project, what did you use them for? Or was it another project?” he asked.
“I used them for other things, but we were trying to use a particle accelerator to solve some of our quantum computing issues,” I replied, more memories coming to me.
He nodded, and we continued the tour.
He led me to an office that saidDoctor Ellington.“Now, this is for you. You don’t have to work here to use it. But I want you to consider working here–when you’re ready, of course.”
I chewed on my lower lip. “I might not be ready for what you’d like me to do–for this.”
This seemedamazing,and I yearned to be here for the revolution these innovations would bring. That’s what I liked about Spencer’s company. His tech not only helped people, but making them accessible was a major part of their mission. Though the healthcare system seemed a lot better here than in my world.
“My good doctor, of course you’re ready,” he assured. “I believe that together we can accomplish so many things.”
His confidence in me was astounding. What if I disappointed him?
“Now, the project I’m most excited about is our virtual supercollider. It’s pure theory right now—an idea with part of a team. I want to build a computer simulator that would eradicate the need for particle accelerators and super colliders for most projects,” he told me, leaning against the desk.
“Why? They’re not that dangerous.” I frowned. That also sounded like an incredible project.
“They can be. At least here. My father and Mrs. Katsopolis’ wife were research partners, mapping the fifth and sixthdimensions using qubits. The collider they were using exploded, killing many people and leveling a building. I’d only recently left the lab when it happened,” he whispered.
“I’m sorry to hear that.” It also explained why, when I’d mentioned qubits, he’d mentioned mapping dimensions.
“It was tragic, and I’m grateful that it didn’t cause a black hole–or worse. While I understand the theories, I’m not the scientist my father was. But as I said, the virtual supercollider is only one of many projects we're doing here. I’m confident we’ll find the perfect project for you to work on,” he assured.
“May I mull everything over, maybe look over some things, so I can see what I could actually be of help with?” I wasn’t sure what I could contribute.
“Of course; take your time.” His eyes lingered on my face. “You wore the earrings.” Spencer smiled. “I was unsure what sort of jewelry you preferred.”
“Oh, you chose these? Thank you, I love them.”
“They look amazing on you. But then pretty much everything does.” His gaze went direct and intense.
My core tightened, and my heart fluttered.Smooth, you are so smooth.
I was here for the compliments.
“Thank you.” I picked up a lab book filled with complex equations and notes, and paged through it, curious. “What’s this?”
“All I have left of my father’s time and space research. In case you wish to attempt to return home. Unless you remember your work,” he added.
My fingers traced the equations. “Mine was a very different approach. I think.” I turned to another page, the question I needed to ask heavy on my heart. “Do I have to go home?”
Was this how he knew so much, such as what neutrons smelled like? What else did he know?
“Honestly, I think it would be best if you stayed. There are rules to interdimensional travel, and I know very little of them,” he told me.
“There are?” I put the book down. Anxiety shot through me. What had I done?
