Under the microscope

Gideon took a seat in the rear of the packed conference hall, his gaze fixed on the woman standing at the podium.

Alma.

Her voice was steady and composed as she unveiled her team’s newest breakthrough in treating addiction: a promising drug that could possibly break the hold of addiction or provide some relief.

Her commanding presence filled the room, drawing all attention towards her like a magnet. From the confident tilt of her chin to the determined set of her jaw, every movement exuded power and control.

She was a modern-day Lara Croft, fearless and unyielding.

But it wasn’t just her physical appearance that captivated Gideon.

It was her brilliant mind, sharp and analytical, that truly fascinated him. With each calculated word, she revealed the depths of her knowledge and expertise. He couldn’t help but compare it to the likes of Einstein’s genius - a bold comparison, but one that felt fitting.

However, he knew that this side of Alma was carefully hidden under a polished corporate facade.

To the outside world, she was the face of her company - a strategic marketing tool to attract investors and ward off competitors. Her personal life was shrouded in mystery, with only a carefully curated biography available for public consumption.

As the presentation began, someone in the row ahead of him muttered sarcastically, “Looks like Corporate Barbie is at it again. Don’t expect any useful information from her.”

The remark was dripping with cynicism and disrespect, but Gideon didn’t see it that way. To him, Alma was more than just a pretty face - she was a force to be reckoned with, a true powerhouse in both beauty and brains.

For months, Gideon had obsessively delved deep into every aspect of Alma’s background. While most people were satisfied with the surface-level image she presented. It showed a successful law school graduate with a focus on patent law and an impressive career path – Gideon knew instantly, that there was more to her story.

He had uncovered her brilliance in multiple hidden fields, from biochemistry to pharmacology, with a doctorate completed just three months after her masters.

Her public persona was merely a cover, skillfully crafted to protect her from prying eyes and threats.

As she stood at the front of the room, Alma exuded confidence and poise. Her tall, lean figure seemed to command attention as she surveyed the audience with an intense gaze and sharp features. She stood out among the sea of suits and ties, radiating intelligence and determination.

“Do you have any concerns about being targeted by the drug cartels?” A reporter, looking for a controversial angle, raised his hand and asked the bold question.

The crowd murmured and shifted uneasily, exchanging knowing looks.

It was a valid concern - Alma’s revolutionary drug had the potential to change the world, but in the realm of illegal substances, breakthroughs often brought dangerous repercussions.

Alma’s expression turned firm and almost disdainful as she addressed the reporter’s question. She paused deliberately, allowing tension to build before turning her piercing gaze back to the audience.

“Let me make this perfectly clear: the true risk in this situation is not the potential gain for certain individuals. The real threat lies in the fact that it may make drugs more accessible to those who actively pursue them. Addiction goes beyond simply being dependent. It also inflicts harm upon the body. And there are certain factions here,” she casted a quick glance at the insurance executives, “who would profit from destroying human bodies rather than healing them.”

Her words hung in the air, heavy with implication. Alma wasn’t only speaking about addiction - she was also addressing power, corruption, and the harsh realities of a system that thrived on human suffering.

“This drug is a double-edged sword,” she stated. “Governments may see it as a solution to a widespread problem, but it also opens the door for increased control and manipulation. There is no simple answer. It requires careful balancing.”

Gideon was struck by the gravity of her words as the others. The room had fallen into stillness, save for the gentle hum of the air conditioning.

As Alma finished her powerful speech, the room erupted into a buzz of conversation and speculation. Some were visibly moved by her words, nodding in agreement with her revolutionary vision. Others looked uncomfortable, their eyes darting around nervously as if fearing the consequences of such drastic change.

Gideon remained rooted to his seat, his mind racing with the implications of Alma’s words.

Alma wasn’t just promoting an antagonist - she was selling a vision that could potentially revolutionize addiction treatment and change society’s perception of the drug trade entirely.

Though she appeared composed and professional, there was a glint in her eye that seemed almost sinister. Her gaze was sharp and penetrating, as if she could see through everyone’s façades. She moved with purpose and precision, calculated and intentional.

And then, there was a certain hunger about her that could not be ignored. Her eyes never stayed in one place for long, scanning the room and calculating her next move. They gleamed with an intensity, like a predator searching for its next target.

Besides this, beneath her composed facade, there was a hint of amusement. As if she held some secret knowledge that others did not possess.

Gideon noticed the subtle smirk on her lips, revealing a sense of satisfaction and power. Yet, her mouth remained closed in a tight line, hinting at an inner drive and determination that she seemed to keep hidden from others.

He couldn’t help but be drawn to Alma’s enigmatic presence.

She was a woman of contradictions - a scientist promoting a potentially dangerous drug, an advocate for healing in a world built on destruction, and a composed professional with hidden depths.

He knew that unveiling a drug with the potential to disrupt the status quo would not be without its challenges. The forces at play in the world of addiction and pharmaceuticals were vast and unforgiving.

If Alma’s drug truly had the power she claimed, it would undoubtedly attract attention from all corners - some benevolent, others malevolent.

As he watched Alma field questions from the audience with grace and unwavering resolve, Gideon made a decision.

He would offer his assistance to her cause, using his own skills and resources to safeguard her breakthrough from those who sought to exploit it for personal gain.

The world needed her.

Gideon spent the next hours trying not to stare at her from across the room and finally decided to approach her in the break. He wasn’t sure what had driven him—curiosity, ambition, or maybe just the need to be closer to the heart of the storm.

He made his way through the crowd, careful to keep his movements steady and confident, as though this was just another moment in his carefully calculated career. But when he reached her, he hesitated.

Alma glanced up from her laptop. Her sharp blue eyes caught his instantly, and for a moment, he almost regretted moving closer. But then she smiled, just slightly, and gestured to the empty chair across from her.

“Dr. Martinez,” he said, extending his hand for a shake.

Her eyes, dark and piercing, locked onto Gideon’s with an unwavering intensity. They seemed to see beyond his outer shell and into the depths of his soul, making him feel vulnerable and exposed. Her expression was unreadable, and yet her gaze held a power that drew him in.

She refused his handshake, leaving her hands clasped in front of her, a deliberate stance that exuded power and control.

“Gideon Raymond,” he introduced himself, offering a small grin before pulling his hand back.

“You’re registered as student,” Alma said.

“I am,” Gideon replied, though it was a lie, his tone even, raising an eyebrow in surprise. “You know who I am?”

Alma’s lips curled into a small smile, her dark eyes sparkling with amusement at Gideon’s reaction. Her posture remained composed and confident as she looked at him, her sharp features giving her an air of sophistication.

“I made it my business to know who attends these events.” Her words held a subtle challenge that Gideon couldn’t quite place. But he was instantly intrigued by this woman who seemed to always be one step ahead.

“I study biochemistry and pharmacology,” he continued which wasn’t a lie.

Alma’s eyes narrowed slightly as she regarded him, a hint of recognition flickering in her gaze. “Your name has not crossed my desk before,” she stated, her voice cool and composed.

“I assumed as much, but I’m intrigued by your research.” Gideon nodded with respect.

A flicker of curiosity passed through Alma’s features, but she remained guarded. Everyone was. “And why is that?”

“I believe in your vision,” Gideon began earnestly. “I think your breakthrough could change the landscape of addiction treatment and rehabilitation. But with great innovation comes risk, especially when it threatens the status quo.” She was already aware of this fact without needing to answer the bold reporter’s question or being reminded by him.

Alma’s gaze intensified, studying him intently.She spotted him immediately in the audience. It wasn’t just because he was the odd one out on the list of attendees.

He stood out among all the formally dressed individuals, making him the focal point wherever he went. He exuded a unique mix of elegance and nonchalance with his fashionable and relaxed attire. It was highly improbable for someone in her line of work.

“I have to say, I am thoroughly impressed by your performance today.” He genuinely complimented her.

At Gideon’s words, Alma’s mouth curved into a small, genuine smile, revealing pearly white teeth. Her dark eyes softened and glistened with a hint of appreciation. Her posture relaxed ever so slightly, allowing her to appear less guarded and more approachable. The overhead lights caught the subtle highlights in her dark hair, giving it a glossy sheen.

“Thank you”, she said stern. There was a moment of silence between them. Alma’s lips were pressed together in a pensive line as she gazed at Gideon, taking him in. He was tall with a confident posture, exuding an effortless charm. His blond hair, sun-kissed and slightly tousled, frames his chiseled face and accentuates his striking grey eyes, which held a glimmer of mischief. A strong jawline and high cheekbones added to his rugged appeal, while a warm smile revealed a friendly demeanor.

“Sit.” Her voice was as composed as ever. She didn’t ask who he was—didn’t need to.

“I wasn’t expecting you to approach me,” Alma said, her gaze never leaving his as she closed her laptop with a soft click. “What can I do for you, Gideon?”

He had expected her offer but the cool indifference. But Alma wasn’t readable. There was a strange openness in her eyes, almost as if she had been waiting for this moment.

“I... I was wondering if I could—” he faltered, but she didn’t let him finish.

“—if you could do an internship with us?” She raised an eyebrow, a ghost of a smirk playing at the corners of her lips. No he wasn’t imposing this. He had other intentions.

“I’m very interested in the work you’re doing here. I’ve done my research, and I believe I could contribute something valuable,” Gideon said, his words coming out a bit more earnest than he had intended.

Alma studied him for a long moment. There was a pause, a shift in the air. For the briefest second, Gideon thought he might actually get the chance to work with her, to get closer to the truth that seemed to surround her every word.

But then, she shook her head, the smile disappearing. “I’m afraid not,” she said simply. “We don’t have any openings right now. And even if we did, there are more qualified candidates than you, Gideon.”

It was a rejection, plain and simple. Cold.

He nodded, trying to hide his disappointment, though it stung more than he expected. “I understand.”

But Alma wasn’t finished yet. “However,” she added, her tone softer now, “I suggest you keep an eye on our company in the future. You never know when opportunities might arise.”

It wasn’t what he wanted, but a response was better than nothing.

Before he had a chance to respond and continue playing, another person came over to join them at their table. It was Marc Sutton, one of Alma’s colleagues.

Gideon had seen him earlier in the crowd. A man in his late thirties with dark circles under his eyes, wearing a suit that seemed slightly too casual for the event. He looked like he hadn’t slept in days, and as he bent over the table to Alma, a distinct smell of alcohol wafted toward Gideon.

“Alma,” Marc greeted her with a half-hearted nod, his voice low and sluggish. Then he turned to Gideon, a smirk creeping onto his face. “So, the golden boy thinks he can land an internship here?” His eyes flicked over Gideon like he was already sizing him up.

Gideon raised an eyebrow. He’d heard the rumors about Marc —about his reputation in the industry. But he didn’t expect this kind of reception.

“Is that what you’re after, kid?” Marc leaned on the table, clearly enjoying the power dynamic. “Trying to impress the our barbie?”

Despite the attack on Alma, Gideon remained composed and quickly responded to the proposal. It might not be a bad idea after all.

“I’m just looking for an opportunity to prove myself.”

“Yeah, that’s what they all say,” Marc snorted, then leaned in closer, the scent of alcohol sharper now. “Tell me, do you have straight A’s across the board? No hiccups in your record?” His eyes narrowed, as though searching for any weakness.

Gideon kept his expression neutral. “I’ve had a solid academic record, yes. Several internships. I’ve been around.”

Marc raised his eyebrows. “Yeah? Well, if you really want in, here’s what you do. Send your résumé to HR. But don’t forget to mention that you’re applying for the position on my recommendation. You’ll get a better shot that way.”

Gideon didn’t flinch. He’d heard enough. He could see the game Marc was playing—a game of power, of connections. But it was clear that Alma had no interest in giving him a chance. And Marc? He was a strange piece of the puzzle to her.

Marc’s grin widened, as if he could see that Gideon understood the unspoken rules of the game. “Maybe I’ll be seeing you around, kid,” he said with a wink, before turning his attention back to Alma.