lab. The aroma of antiseptic burns my nose again like always. Such a contrast from the pleasant smells that exist outside this building.

Why couldn’t I have been assigned agriculture? Because my test scores indicated that research is where my brain would best be utilized, and I’d be able to contribute most to society.

Lucky me.

Entering the lab, I spot Jude seated in front of his screen eating a sandwich. My stomach churns and I fight back a gag. I haven’t eaten anything all day but I’m not the slightest bit hungry. In fact, I’ll be surprised if I’m ever hungry again.

Keeping silent as I seat myself in front of my computer, I cross my arms on the front of the desk and bury my face as if, like a child, I can make myself believe that if I can’t...

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