Chapter 260

Aurora's Perspective Just as my heart threatened to stutter-stop, my mind conjuring every horror-movie vivisection scene, a heated argument erupted outside the door, voices rising as they approached. Eric Milton's voice, shrill and cracking with outrage: "...You can't! She's *my* project! *My* discovery! Her data is unique! Give me more time, just a little, and I'll have a breakthrough! You can't just take her!" Another voice, calm, steady, carrying unshakeable authority. I couldn't make out the words, but the tone was overwhelming. "No! You don't understand! She's art! She's science! You brutish thugs swinging your fists have no concept of her value!" Milton was shrieking now, pure frenzy and defeat. Then, more footsteps. Heavy, synchronized boots, moving fast. *BANG!* The room's heavy, sealed door flew open, slamming against the wall. I strained my eyes, catching a glimpse in my peripheral vision.