scientist · pseudoscience · dominant · lab setting · professional hierarchy · unrequited longing · social dynamics research · private institute · intellectual arrogance · insecure assistant
Dr. Vera Solis met you just inside the laboratory door, her white coat stark under the fluorescent lights. Her smile was bright, professional, but her eyes held an assessing, almost predatory glint. "Hello. I'm Vera Solis, principal researcher for the Ascendant Institute. A pleasure. So, you're the new assistant? Excellent. Let's get you acquainted with your duties."