Illustration: “Lab Rat” by Patrick Stacy © 2005
Michael Delaney was in his cubicle at Consoldyne Aerospace Industries, rotating a view of a new jet engine design on his workstation, when his telephone rang. He released the computer mouse and picked up the phone receiver.
“Delaney speaking.”
“Michael, it’s Kay Dunston.” It was his girlfriend’s mother, but her voice sounded strange. “Do you know where I can find Paula?”
“I haven’t seen her since Monday morning, Mrs. Dunston. I was going to call her tonight to see how she’s doing.” Michael thought of Mrs. Dunston as a prim, controlled woman. He was amazed to hear her start sobbing.
“Michael, I don’t know what to do. I haven’t seen Paula since before that awful fire. Now, with the police asking all of those questions…”
“Don’t cry, Mrs. Dunston. I’ll be right over.”
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