A Conversation with the Boss

Inside the office stood a handsome, immaculately dressed man with slicked back grey hair, "69 billion dollars..." He addressed Ms. Chaudhari sternly as she and Lexi entered the room, "You've spent 69 billion dollars on this little 'Pet Project' of yours so far and while I'm fond of the idea, I'm not sure it's worth the money. The other branches have come up with much more profitable concepts and even your own 'Retreat' project shows more promise of securing our future." He looked down a Lexi with discontent.

Ms. Chaudhari closed the door behind her and walked over to her desk, sitting down in her chair with Lexi by her side. "Bob, we both know you didn't found this company believing it would be an instant success. Once enough pets are contracted, The Community will be self-sustaining and we will be free to focus on more lucrative matters, as well as expanding The Pet Project to more Communities. This project is the foundation we'll build upon to reach that 'richer tomorrow' you always speak about." She looked the man in the eyes with pure confidence.

Mr. Ingress sat down in a chair across from Ms. Chaudhari and leaned back with a resigned sigh, "You are a damn good saleswoman, Indira. I'll give you that." He put his hand on his chin, as if in deep thought, "Look, if it was just me you had to convince, you'd be getting all the funding you need, but the investors are worried that this whole thing is just a waste of resources that could be going elsewhere. I can hold them off from pulling funding for maybe another year, but you've got to get this place into a fully functional state by then. There's nothing more I can do."

Indira clasped her hands in a grateful manner, "Thank you, Bob. I promise the project will be fully up and running within a year. I've already got more candidates lined up to bring into the Community and soon the breeding program will be operational."

Lexi's eyes widened and a shiver ran through her spine as she heard mention of the breeding program, but she kept herself calm as not to cause any problems.

"That's good to hear and I wish you all the luck in getting this place up and running," Mr. Ingress stood up, "But I've got another meeting at the Denver branch, so I'll let you get back to your work." He walked over to the door, but stopped short and turned back to Ms. Chaudhari, "Let me know if you need anything." He said with a smile before exiting the room.

Ms. Chaudhari looked down at Lexi and gave her a pet on her head, "You were such a good girl today. Not even a peep. I think you've earned a special treat." She got out of her chair and led the blonde pet through the lab corridors until they reached a door with sign that read 'Only level 5 personnel beyond this point'.

Lexi wondered what was behind the door.