“Cole speaking.” The woman said as she picked up her ringing office phone.

A voice that sounded automatically squirrely said, “Hello, Dr. Cole. This is David Brown calling from Demi-Gen Pharmaceuticals. I wanted to let you know that your proposal has been looked over by the Board and is an acceptable agreement.”

“Is that all?” Dr. Cole urged, silently begging that was all the man had to say.

“Well…” She mentally groaned as he continued, “They did ask one small condition in addition to your proposal.”

“What is it?” Dr. Cole practically growled.

The man faltered slightly, “Uh, they would like to keep your position on 24 hour surveillance. As a safety precaution.”

‘Safety precaution my foot.’ She held her breath a moment before saying, “Fine. When do they expect me to start?”

“At your earliest convenience. As you know this is a most urgent matter.”

“0500 tomorrow then. Goodbye.” Dr. Cole was very careful not to smash the phone as she put it back on its receiver.