But as satisfying as his death would be, it wouldn’t change the system he’d built. It would be suicide for me and the Seligo would roll on without him.

If I wanted to change this world, I needed to go deeper. Then I could undermine both him and his research.

I had to keep myself level, or I’d never touch the future I imagined.

And Quanta would be doomed to more of the same.

Watching her huddled thermal image rock back and forth wasn’t going to get me calm. Instead of fixating, I let my gaze wander to the display screens. I had to keep myself in pure science mode.

No emotion. Just data. Observations.

“What’s your assessment?” Doctor Nagi flicked through the video feeds, reviewing old footage of Quanta pacing the white space.

Be calm. Be controlled.

Through sheer willpower, my voice came out even. “I’ve never met someone like that.” Both honest and obvious. “How long has she been at this facility?”

“Seven years. Before that…” Doctor Nagi tapped at the console. “I’ll save myself the trouble of reciting her history. I’m giving you security clearance to browse her records.”

I didn’t have to fake a smile.

I was in.

Finally.

“I can’t wait to get started.”

He swiveled in his chair to face me. “Her reaction to you was pure gold.”

Gold wasn’t the word I would’ve chosen. Pure terror, maybe. “I seem to have a struck a nerve.”

“That’s exactly why I want you.” Doctor Nagi checked the time on his watch, and then stood. “My assistant will detail your role and show you to your workspace. We’ll need you to stay in house for the duration of your appointment.”

He strode out the door and all I could do was trail after. I couldn’t get swept up in his wake.

I had to contact Eva before I got locked in.

Chances were zero that I could open a safe line to the outside, and once I got access to the classified research, I doubted I’d be allowed to leave for any reason short of my own funeral. “Sir, I’d like to stop home before I relocate.”

Doctor Nagi paused in the hallway. “There are Grays to bring your things. It’s not necessary.”

And my asking was giving him an avenue to doubt my intentions. “Of course. But if possible, I’d like to tell my sister in person. I’m sure you’ve heard she’s… Eccentric?” It wasn’t the first time my sister’s oddball reputation was an asset. “She has a bad habit of sealing our apartment shut and there’s no other way to get word to her.”