Isla Nublar
Claire's Apartment Suite
27 December 2015
0430
An alarm goes off in a darkened bedroom
Lacuna Coil
Save Me
"My skin is crawling
And feel this pressure
Pushing from the inside out
I have lost my nerve
My mind is racing
Insomnia kicks in
Buried in my darkest thoughts again"
A pale arm reaches out from under the nest of blankets hitting the alarm clock, silencing it, a hand pressed the light switch on the small lamp, bathing the room in a soft glow. A moan escapes echoed by cursing from the other side of the queen sized bed.
Claire (grumbling): I swear we just went to sleep (rubbing her face and rolling to her side) Zara, babe, come on (reaching out to touch her lover.)
Zara (mumbling; burrowing deeper into the covers): Zara's not here right now, she's out of the office at present. Leave a bloody message (muted cursing followed.)
Claire (Zara was grumpy, they both were, knowing, the long, correction she thought, the longer hours at work, the increasing demands and pressures of their job, which in turn left little time for them and their personal relationship was taking a significant toll): Baby (scooting closer until the front of her body pressed against Zara's back, wrapping her arm around the surly brunette; enjoying the feeling of skin to skin and how Zara's ass fit perfectly against her pelvic area) I promise we'll take some time soon (they were overdue for a few uninterrupted days.) Maybe take a little trip off this island and throw our phones in the ocean, while we're at it (wishing they could, throw the phones in the ocean, unlikely to happen, still a nice thought though.)
Zara (rubbing Claire's hand): Can't do that, (snuggling further) corporate would have a fit (her voice deep and fake) those are expensive pieces of equipment. How could you lose them, do you know how much they cost?
Claire (chuckling): Why, I don't know what happened, one minute I was kissing my beautiful assistant and oops they fell over board? (Well that got Zara's attention and Zara was up, moving faster than Claire could grab her, Zara was a force of nature and when her temper flared, watch out; unfortunately this was one of those times; Claire cursed herself as she rolled onto her back furious green eyes looking down on her.)
Zara (her tone clipped): Assistant, assistant really Claire, err Ms Dearing, it won't happen again (standing up, stretching and cursing under her breath.)
Claire (sitting up): Zara, please honey (her hands flailing trying to grab Zara) don't do…
Zara (snapping): Do, do what Claire? I'm exhausted, stressed out, as I know you are and I have just as much as you, (her hands tensing) on my plate and this (waving her arms around) is the weekend your nephews are coming. (Turning and grabbing her robe) your sisters kids, your sister (pointedly) who you still haven't told about us. (Her voice rising in volume) so don't give me a don't or please (growling) ugh.
Claire (angrily; defensive): And what about you? You're still engaged to (trying to remember) Alec (shutting her mouth immediately, Claire should not have said that, she should definitely have not said that, she was fucked.)
Zara (spinning around; anger): Excuse you, (raising her voice) I've tried to but I can't have a conversation like that when I'm lucky I can get five bloody minutes between my work, my job and everything else going on around me to have that conversation. (Yelling) fuck (storming off to make coffee.)
Claire (grabbed a pillow and pressed it over face, screaming for all she was worth): Fuck, fuck (that didn't help at all. Thinking, you did this Claire so take a shower, give Zara some time and space, which hopefully by then Zara would calm down, maybe. Claire knew she shouldn't have said what she had said about Zara's supposed engagement, she knew Zara didn't love what's his name well not in the sense two people should love each other, Alec that was it, and knew Zara really didn't want to marry Alec. Claire also doubted that the wedding plans as she had heard them weren't Zara's idea either. Letting out a breath, she needed to do some serious damage control and fast. Padding to the bathroom she turned the light on, starting the shower; looking at her face in the mirror, noticing the dark circles under eyes and figured makeup would fix that. Claire stepped into the shower to consider how to calm her lover's temper, Zara's Irish temper at that, and calm things down. Claire would rather stand in front of Tyrannosaurus Rex than deal with an angry Zara Young and it was all Claire's own fault.)
Zara (hated waiting, hated sitting still; the bloody coffee maker was deciding to take longer than usual; pace, pace turn, pace, pace and the beep signaling the coffee was ready): Thank the fucking Gods (pouring herself a mug and then Claire's; considering on whether to bring Claire her coffee or not, well it was the least she could do for going off as she had; sipping the dark rich brew, Zara gritted her teeth and figured why not; padding down the hallway carrying Claire's mug and her own; Zara entered the bathroom setting both mugs down on the vanity) here's your coffee (her voice clearly agitated.)
Claire (placating; softly): Please, get in here with me ((swallowing) I don't want to have the day start like this (trying to convey with her voice and her tone I'm sorry, I love you and we can't stay angry at each other.)
Zara (closed her eyes hearing in that tone what Claire was trying to say, one part her wanted to remain angry and upset, the other part of knew she couldn't, especially not at Claire, Zara knew the stress Claire was under, knew that she should have broken it off with Alec a long time ago; knew that a lot of this agitation was due more to every external factor and had very little to due Claire): Fine (stepping into the shower but only because she needed a shower, not for any other reason than she bloody needed a shower.)
Claire (seeing the hurt and angry look on Zara's face): Come here please (wrapping her arms around Zara, feeling her stiffen at first then relax into her) I'm sorry, I shouldn't have said what I said (cupping her lover's face.) I shouldn't have pushed you into the corner like that, or spoke the way I did. (Brushing back moisture from Zara's cheek, unsure if it was tears or water droplets) and I certainly shouldn't have called you my assistant in that context. Zara you're more than that to me, so much more. I hope you know that, you are my rock and I don't always recognize that or say things to show you I appreciate you.
Zara (leaning into Claire's touch; biting the corner of her lower lip, a nervous habit she never grew out of; she was still mad not so much at Claire as she was just irritated at everything in general): I should be more patient with you and realize you need to figure out what's best when discussing personal matters with your family. (A breath) I know I should have broken it off a while ago with Alec and there's no excuse. And I need to have a talk with my parents as well. (Pressing her forehead against Claire's) we're both going through a lot, and we to take a moment to calm down and not take it out on each other.
Claire (pressing her lips against Zara's; a brief tender kiss; not wanting to push Zara into anything, a kiss to show affection, not demand or start anything romantic not now anyway): Tonight I'm going to call my sister after the boys are sleeping and talk with her and tell her that (finding the words) I'm dating someone very, very special. (Green eyes peered up) and that this person means everything to me and that's that. Well not exactly like that but maybe with a little more tact, I have to work on it don't I (Zara nodded) well it's the truth and you're more than my assistant you're my partner.
Zara (Claire really had to work on her wording at times, yet she understood Claire on a deep level and warmed at Claire's words, not so much as the words but the intent and meaning): Or you could do it tomorrow (grabbing the bottle of body wash) right now though, you and I, we've a park to run, nephews to fetch, scheduling to get to and meetings to attend (and whatever else would come with their long day.)
Claire (closing her eyes for a moment; wishing they could stay here, soothe the rough patches, spend the day being together without work in the way): We can continue our talk tonight after the boys are asleep. (Gazing into green eyes) and we will talk, you and I, that's a promise. (Taking the washcloth and running it over Zara's toned back.)
Zara (agreeing): Well then I suggest we get moving now as you and I have to get our day started or this park will come crashing down, Goddess forbid (placing a tender kiss on Claire's cheek, she needed to calm down, get her head in the game and get through today; they finished their shower, dressing in comfortable silence, listening to morning news and weather reports. Zara checked on ticket sales for yesterday and counted off the days projections. Zara still felt prickly, edgy and wanted nothing more than to get today over with. Then come home later, not have that talk tonight, they could talk tomorrow and just not do anything but curl up in bed with Claire watch television and sleep, definitely sleep well more than 4 hrs that is.)
Claire fastened her watch to her wrist, grabbing her cell phone and tablet off the coffee table. Things were still a little tense but better, the tension due to they were both running on fumes physically and emotionally, they needed more time for them. At present she and Zara needed to step back take a breath and give each other a little space. She leaned down pressing a gentle kiss to Zara's lips and walked out the door, feeling those pale green eyes were watching her.)
Zara watched Claire head out, she would in a moment, considering how she was feeling, she chalked it up to all the demands and the long hours. All those factors combined were taking a toll on both of them, she could see it in Claire and she could definitely feel it herself. She loved her job, she loved what she did and she loved Claire. Taking a calming breath she stood, gathered her things and headed out. First stop more coffee and maybe a little treat for the both of them.
Command Center
0600 Hours
Claire entered her office, heels clicking on the tile floor. She set the small bag on Zara's desk and then walked over to her own desk, Claire glanced at the neat organized piles of paperwork and set her purse on the floor, setting her phone and tablet on the desk and turned directly behind her to the large bay window, that took up the back wall of her office. The window which was reinforced, tinted one way glass to be exact, gave her a view of the Central Plaza, with all it shops and cafes. At this time of the morning, she could see all the way down Main St and make out all the buildings without the throngs of visitors blocking them.
This time of day was her favorite, when the park was quietest, well as quiet as this place could get, on any given day, listening to the heard of Apatosaurus and Brachiosaurus muffled rumbling in the background. This early in the morning, she could take her time and plan out her day, what her goals were and what needed to be done, besides the tight scheduled itinerary, and she could do that with out the phone constantly ringing, emails needing immediate attention, the constant text messages and other communications that took up part of her day. The other part of the day was spent in meetings, video conferencing, investor and VIP tours, paperwork, problem resolution (she enjoyed the working out of the little quirks and intricacies and the inner workings of the park.) Then reviewing budgets requests, filtering through equipment and purchase orders following Mr Masrani's guidelines of sign the requests, don't ask too many questions and spare no expense.
Of course, she had questions on some of those things, and she took notes, jotted down information and researched a few of them, there were others such as the lab and science information that she was often told to sign it, don't worry about and prayed that none of that came back to bite them in the ass. The doors to her office beeped and she heard the locks being unlocked and the heavy doors opening with a hiss. Claire kept the doors to her office closed at all times, locked when she was alone or if she and Zara needed a few moments to connect during the day, kissing, light teasing touches, promises of later and more. Another thing, that they hadn't been doing as of late. It wasn't lewd or scandalous, or anything like pulling Zara over to the couch and tearing her clothes off and having a romp (Zara's words) in the office. They both had to be careful, be beyond reproach and above board at all times.
Not to say that it hadn't crossed her mind or Zara's and that it hadn't happened. Smiling remembering that long week, what was it, oh yes there a storm bearing down on them and between the usual workload, storm preparations, and whatever else was going on, it had started with Zara's gentle touch on her bare hip, she had to change her shirt for some reason or other, and the next thing that happened they were on the couch, partially clothed, (smirking) everything lewd and scandalous and filthy and amazingly beautiful, hoping no one heard them or came looking for them, even though the doors were locked and the office was sound proof.
Heels clicked on the floor behind her, breaking her out of her little reverie, turning she saw Zara holding a paper coffee tray with two cups of coffee, two small bags on the tray, a delicious scent wafting from them, and a pensive look in green eyes; Claire also noticed Zara's face looked strained the dark circles that her makeup didn't fully cover, the tense shoulders, the tightness of her lips, her shoulders squared. Claire turned back to the window, giving Zara a moment, waiting with baited breath to see what Zara would do. Would Zara stand at the window with her, gazing out at the park and sipping their coffee together, like they did every morning, or would Zara dive right into her work. Claire nearly cried as Zara's hand touched her lower back and the cup of steaming coffee was placed in her hand. Closing her eyes for a moment not only at the gesture but at the soft gentle touch, that almost brought tears to her eyes as Zara kept her hand on Claire's lower back, a touch that spoke volumes to Claire.
Zara (pressing her lips together): It's a pretty view (glancing at Claire, in this light she could see the strain on the older woman's face, little things like the constant shifting, the tense clenching of her fists, other little signs that no one else would notice, but Zara did.) I have coffee, the morning's reports, and this (holding up one of the brown paper bags) figure a little sugar in our diets might help.
Claire (turned; their fingers brushed against each other, enjoying the warm tingle that went up her arm anytime Zara touched her): Thank you (getting a whiff of warm vanilla and toasted nuts; Zara's own scent of sandalwood and lavender as they moved closer. She moved from the window, setting down the cup and brown paper bag, ensuring the doors to her office were locked; watching green eyes follow her, Claire returned to Zara's left side. Moving slowly, unsure even after their shower together if Zara wanted this and to also give Zara a chance to move away, Claire slid her arms around her lover, gently pulling them close together. Claire smiled as Zara relaxed into her, releasing a breath, enjoying this little quiet reprieve, a chance to enjoy the stillness and each other, desperately needing it after their rough start and only a few hours of sleep) now it is, (pressing a kiss to Zara's cheek) it definitely is now.
Zara (unsure if she wanted to cry from the tenderness in Claire's gentle reverent touch): It was before (swallowing around the lump of emotion in her throat) you didn't see it (resting her hands over Claire's.)
Claire (pressing her face into Zara's hair, Claire closed her eyes and took a breath): I did, but it wasn't until you got here (pausing) that I truly saw it.
Zara (grinning): Yeah, good thing I came along then (sarcastic humor.)
Claire (chuckling at that, Claire arrogant, sarcastic, beautiful, intelligent and amazing those were only some of the words Claire would use to describe the Irish beauty in her arms; vowing silently to make more time for them, put in the effort to be better in their relationship): It's going to be a long day, I want (swallowing) I want more moments like this, without the added pressure and demands. I want to go somewhere do something alone just the two of us.
Zara (biting her lips at Claire's invoked promise): After the boys go home and we get through today and the weekend. Let Zach and Gray enjoy their little holiday and after, (thinking of places they could go, things they could do) we'll take a few days off go sailing, hiking, maybe rent one of the beach bungalows or whatever we decide…
Claire (tensing up; blue eyes widening): I don't know how to sail, the beach bungalow sounds great, though.
Zara (chuckling): Well, well Claire Dearing doesn't know how to sail (smug) that's a first that you, of all people, don't know how to do something (teasing. Seductively) don't worry it's all hands on and I'll teach you everything you need to know. (Licking her lips) and I happen to know for a fact tracing Claire's fingers) you're (grinning) very good with your hands (giggling.)
Claire (catching onto Zara's double entendre on words; glad for the humor): Tease, you're a dam tease.
Zara (facing Claire): I know and you enjoy it (smirking.)
Claire (admiring Zara's soft lips): I do, I definitely do (pressing her lips to Zara's, feeling Zara smile, enjoying the taste of coffee and vanilla and Zara's own flavor, teasing Zara's lower lip with her tongue, strong hands gripped her shoulders as Zara demanded entry and slid her tongue inside her mouth, Claire whimpered as Zara traced the inside of her mouth, teasing, tasting; and then Claire's knees went weak when Zara sucked on her tongue, a rush of heat and want flooding her body. Claire pushed back teasing Zara's tongue with her own, their tongues battling for dominance; Claire's hands moving up Zara's body, tangling in dark locks, an anchor in the tempest, their breaths raspy, mingling, Claire's hands itching to do more than just hold and touch.
Claire pushed Zara backwards into the window, pressing their bodies flush together, effectively holding Zara in place, their mouths moved together wantonly, each demanding more and more, Zara grabbed a hold of her hips, Claire feeling the firm, demanding grip and she pushed her hips into Zara's enjoying the lust fueled heated moan that that fell forth; Claire's hips gently rocking into Zara, feeling Zara respond and push back. A signal for more and Claire wanted more, wanted more now, more touching, more kissing, less clothing, definitely more kissing, things heated quickly, fire rushing through her in the lust fueled moment and Claire wanted to lose herself in Zara, their love their (cursing as reality came crashing in, like a rampaging dinosaur.)
Zara (broke the kiss as her phone went off, then Claire's; she was also glad that Claire was holding her up or she would have slid to the floor in a puddle; right, the blasted bloody phone; Zara's temper flared): Bloody fucking Hades, I'm going to slap someone. Can anyone around here let two people make out, without something going wrong?
Claire (closing her eyes; trying to regain her bearings; attempting to get her brain out of the lustful fog; she so didn't want to stop, she wanted to continue what they were doing; however, they were in the office at work; she didn't want their little moment to end, still they had a park to run, things to do; focusing on Zara's words): Don't do that, please, the paperwork would bury us both for half the day. (Continuing) and probably not, you know this place is ten minutes away from (well she wouldn't finish that sentence.)
Zara (growling, cursing): Not even 0630 what could possibly (shutting her mouth immediately.) Dam, dam and double dam (reading the caller ID.)
Claire (grumbling): Don't finish that sentence, don't go there and don't think it, we don't need any more trouble (rubbing her face. Walking into the en-suite bath room to check her makeup and appearance. Adjusting her jacket, she checked her make up and fixed her hair thinking that not everyone needed to know what went on in her office besides business that is, steeling her reserves she walked back into her office and unlocked her computer, wincing at the dings of emails and requests sounded.)
Zara (collapsed into her chair, agreeing to not invite trouble; wanting to continue, desperately continue what Claire and herself were doing): Dammit (a moment) Claire Dearing's office, no she's in Alex, one cup I'm afraid (laughing) here (putting the phone on hold) Alex in IT, we have an issue with unauthorized access.
Claire (reaching for her phone): Alex what happened, it's not an escaped dinosaur is it? (Relief at least it wasn't a dinosaur but this was a bigger problem.) When was this (listening?) Why wasn't a notification sent out? That's not how the system is set up, all right send me what you have? Thanks (ending the call.)
Zara (wondering what was going on besides the obvious): Okay let's see what's on today's menu of complaints, problems, meetings and well how do you supposed that happened (glaring at the email?) How the bloody fuck did that happen? (Glancing at Claire as she paced at the window, already on the phone to either Central Command or Security, her hands gesturing, a clear sign of frustration for the redhead and a dark look on her face.) No notifications were sent and that's even weirder, even considering (looking around) where we work.
Claire (ending the call): Zara can you pull up yesterdays logs for (reading her notes) 1300 to 1800 hrs for the north end of the park.
Zara (typing in her password; Zara's credentials mirrored Claire's): I've got them up now as I saw the email, who do we want, Park Rangers, ACU, Medical, Lab or Executive or go down the list by other departments and employee?
Claire (pondering for a moment): There's nothing there but an old maintenance shed, containing the patch panel for communications for that area, some old equipment and it butts up against part of the old park. (Tapping her chin in thought) let's see ACU, Parks, Security, and I know where you were and where I was, start with the first three.
Zara (entering the information): Got it (looking at the results) and that makes even less sense, I'm getting nothing using those filters, let me try (mumbling) a few other parameters.
Claire (tapping her chin in thought): Can you also copy the commands and filter parameters to a notepad file?
Zara (grinning): I already have (her phone rang, checking the caller ID, she pressed ignore and went back to her current task. Claire's phone rang again, and Zara read the incoming email alert, priority 4 meaning a herbivore had gotten loose.) Great a Styglimoch busted out of the enclosure at the east end of the park, and the park opens in (checking the clock) two hours. (Knowing that either she or Claire would have to go out there, assess the situation, write a report, get the follow up, contact the necessary personnel) and isn't that oh Claire's not going to like that, you'll be lucky if she doesn't take your bloody head off for it either.
Claire (ending the call): I've got it, third time's the charm and this requires my touch.
Zara (smirking): Someone's going to get their arse reamed pity I won't see that (she could practically hear and see Claire going off at someone not doing their job.)
Claire (always tried to keep her fiery temper in check then there were other times, such as this, that her fiery temper would do well to remind people that the third time an asset escaped was enough): I'll be back in an hour (heading for the office's doors stopping, turning, moving to Zara's side of the desk) we'll continue this later (trailing her fingers down Zara's jaw and kissing her softly.)
Zara (licking her lips watching Claire for a moment; smiling at Claire's touch, wanting to definitely continue where they had left off, the notification reminder sounded, ah well back to business then resuming her work): If this keeps up I think, we might need to take an extended lunch break. (Then she remembered that with Claire's nephews arriving, Claire's meetings, Zara's own pile of work and everything else happening, they wouldn't get lunch together, they would be lucky they got lunch at all, reaching over her increased pile of paperwork she grabbed the pastry, she bought this morning. Better eat something now before something else goes wrong, cursing herself silently for the thought. Again with the phone) now what's going with the labs and two paddocks security devices (shaking her head) oh not that again, it's what the fourth time this month. Let me see what this is about (pulling up a program and running a query, sneering at the immediate results) bloody idiots.
Styglimoch Paddock
Claire (slammed the door shut to the company Mercedes SUV; standing beside the paddock and taking in her surroundings, great she thought, the gate to the paddock was bent outward, along with several beams that supported the gate and the security control mechanism lay in pieces on the ground): Great,
(well add that to the list of today's issues) dammit.
Dr Soren (approaching Claire): Ms Dearing the Styglimoch was apprehended a few moments ago and she's in a holding pen until we can repair the broken fence and security mechanism.
Claire (astounded): You tranked a dinosaur (wide eyes) and then put her in a holding pen (angry) a holding pen of all places (unhappy with the treatment of the Styglimoch and the procedures for relocating the animal and the general treatment of the animal.)
Dr Soren (wincing): It was the only safe option Ms Dearing. (Looking anywhere but at the angry redhead in front of her.) The Styglimoch is being monitored for any medical issues that arise. (Holding out the tablet for Claire to look at, the tablet showed the Styglimoch's condition.) I assure you that the dinosaur is completely safe and comfortable.
Claire (her voice rising in anger; pushing the tablet away): Like you assured the board and myself last week that it wouldn't happen again. It is the third time, (louder) the third time we've had an issue such as this with the Styglimoch and each time I get the same bloody answer (quoting her lover's words. They had other dinosaurs break out of their enclosures as well and it was getting to the point that enough was enough.)
Dr Soren (taking a step back): Ms Dearing we're not (blue eyes bored into hers; she didn't answer to Claire Dearing, no one that worked in the Labs answered to Claire Dearing and how dare she speak to her in such a manner; Claire was the Operations Manager, not a scientist and she had no right; Dr Soren squared her shoulders) Ms Dearing if you have questions regarding the handling of the dinosaurs then I believe that you should speak to Mr Masrani's, regarding the policies of how we do our jobs.
Claire (frustrated; throwing her hands up): Then (gritting her teeth) I suggest you do your job and get me an update every hour on the hour on how the Styglimoch is doing and I want that paddock fixed now (sternly.)
Dr Soren (turning around): Ms Dearing I believe that falls under the job description of security or parks, as well as engineering. I work in the lab not in the park, good day Ms Dearing.
Claire (storming back to her car): Dammit (answering her phone, her voice short and clipped) Claire Dearing (listening pulling the phone away from her ear) you what? How could you not pick that up in the security monitoring system? (Biting her lower lip) Ms Young is in the office, get yourself upstairs, along with the report and show her the information you found. I'm returning to the office (starting the SUV, throwing her phone on the seat.) And it's not even 9AM, yet, (dialing the number to Parks) Glenn, Claire Dearing, we have an issue with the (listening) you do then why isn't it fixed. I see, all right call me back the minute it's fixed, thank you.
Claire's Office
0715
Zara (glancing at the reports spread out on the long table): You found this when (watching as Lowery fidgeted) relax you didn't do this (unsure) but someone did and I want this found and fixed immediately.
Lowery (stammering; everyone it seemed was in a foul mood this morning; too much coffee, well too much caffeine): Ms Young, I noticed it when I first logged in, I keep that monitoring program running in the background. No one said anything and no one picked it up on third shift. I can't explain it myself, it's like a weird anomaly, but it's not, but I was able to capture only a small portion of the code. (Pausing, looking at her, green eyes flared) and I'm well it won't be that easy to fix until I can trace it back.
Zara (rubbing the back of her neck): You mean to tell me (her voice rising) that someone was in the Labs last night, attempting to alter some code for the security access on the doors and no one caught this. (Biting her bottom lip) where's Vivian (she needed answers and a deeper scan and Vivian was the only one authorized to do.)
Lowery (shifting; yeah definitely too much caffeine, although he would rather face Zara's wrath then Claire's, between the two with Zara's wrath it made you want to run in the opposite direction, with Claire's wrath it not only made you want to run but keep running and then find a place to hide): In a meeting in HR, she should be done any moment. And no, it didn't show up on the monitoring software and it didn't even log a badge number which is even weirder.
Zara (finishing): Your badge number is picked up whenever you enter or exit a building, work location, meeting room, any place that has scan access (Lowery nodded) or when you log onto a computer or other technical device. I know that (pushing back her hair) what I don't know is whatever this is (pointing to the paper work on the table) and what it's doing in our system.
Lowery (nodding; stammering his way through further explanation): That and each badge has a locator chip in it, that well it's there in case of an emergency and to track an employee if communications go down or (Zara arched her eyebrow) right but checking the RF ID chip I got nothing.
Zara (confused): What do you mean nothing?
Lowery (showing her another piece of paper): In the event the badge number isn't caught by some weird fluke, we would at least know someone was where they were by the RF ID chip, there was nothing logged there either.
Zara (frustration): That is weird (pointing) also your shirt, inappropriate and cover it up or change it before Claire sees it (noticing the old park logo on it.)
Lowery (Zara was very observant): Yes ma'am I'll (Zara folder her arms across her chest) right.
Zara (thinking of procedures and what needed to be done): Just take care of it and re run this, go through each department see who was where between the hours of 1AM and 4AM, ACU, Parks, everyone and get me the badge numbers and names for any employee working after midnight.
Lowery (checking): Does that include you and Ms Dearing as well?
Zara (staring at him like he had two heads): No it does not (trying not to yell.) The two of us can account for our whereabouts because we were both here until 1AM and (shaking her head) never you mind, get started on that and call me with whatever you find.
Lowery (turning to the door): Yes ma'am (figuring it couldn't hurt) you know maybe you need to try decaff (a withering glare was directed at him) right, I'll get right on this.
Zara (waited a moment then dialed a number from memory; getting voicemail): Vivian, it's Zara when you get out of that meeting can you come up to Claire's office, as soon as you can? (Ending the call as another call came through, great her mother just what she needed today.) Mum, hello, I'm very busy at the moment and I can't talk long. I realize that mum, yes and work is very busy right now yes mum I realize that also but I can't just drop things at the drop of a hat. Yes I know he has but I was in the middle of something well I answered because my phone is ringing like crazy and I was expecting a call (pacing, listening) mum well there's well I need to talk with you about the wedding and Alec. (More pacing) I'll call you tonight and tell you then, I can't right now as I've got a million things on my plate. All right mum, I'll talk with you tonight (ending the call) great, just bloody fucking great.
Claire (storming in the office; shutting the door behind her): I got your text, have you gotten a hold of Vivian? (Noticing the pile of papers on the long table) did Lowery say what happened?
Zara (rubbing her face): No, went to voicemail, she's in a meeting (picking up the report Claire would need.) And Lowery explained how the system is supposed to work, however the system didn't work like it was supposed to and I already talked to him about his shirt.
Claire (leaning over her desk): Shirt right (she had seen it herself and he was leaving the office.) Might need to send a memo out in regards to clothing and dress code. (Picking up a notepad and grabbing her pen, jotting down some information.) Did you (Zara put the papers in her hand?) Never mind then (glancing over the pages quickly.) Have you (leaving the sentence unfinished…)
Zara (ticking off her fingers): Contacted ACU, Security, Parks also contacted guest services, spoke with the Ferry Captain this morning, already moved one meeting ahead until Monday but I couldn't move the one at 1800 hrs, they adamantly refused (the rude bugger.)
Claire (smiling): Good job and thanks for trying Mr Aldridge can be a trifle hard to convince to change anything. He believes as a cosponsor that he can request things at all odd hours.
Zara (agreeing): That would be the milder term yes. Before anything else (stammering) um I wanted to thank you for the Apatosaurus, I appreciate it.
Claire (beaming): You're welcome. I saw it and thought of you (squeezing Zara's shoulder) now about the current issues at hand…
Zara (grabbing her notepad and sitting on the corner of Claire's desk): I'm getting emails about the Styglimoch, her vitals, current condition also current status of a new paddock. I also contacted Dr Rodriguez, the Veterinarian Intern and gave her a heads up. Mr Masrani called and he said that during the meeting today he wanted to see the new dinosaur. For your noon meeting with Verizon, there are three investors, I've attached the basic info, small details about them and printed that information out (not looking up) fourth pile.
Claire (trying not to stare at Zara's legs right in front of her, imaging those strong legs wrapped): Um sorry, can you repeat that please.
Zara (knowing where Claire's mind had possibly wandered off to, business and their jobs first; waving the notepad in front of her): Isla Nublar to Claire Dearing the park opens in 45 minutes. We have the access code issue, an unauthorized attempt, the old maintenance shed and comms being offline in that area and add to that we also have another weird anomaly with an access card swipe (Claire waving her on, blue eyes watching her intently) seems as between the lovely hours of 0100 to 0400 someone tried the same thing with the labs. (Holding her hand up) communications as well as the labs went off line, no badge id recorded and neither was the RF ID chip, and we lost cameras in those areas as well, less than five minutes but they were offline.
Claire (shaking her head to clear her thoughts): Right so it's tied in together and that needs further investigation, did you (Zara pointed to another pile) and Masrani wants to see the Indominus Rex, can you…
Zara (leaning over picking up the desk phone): Contact Dr Wu and have him meet you there at (wondering seeing Claire hold up four fingers) 1600 got it (dialing the lab and informing Dr Wu what Claire and Mr Masrani wanted, ending the call she found Claire glancing at her computer screen and the multiple reports on her desk.) I'm rearranging the schedule and it looks like you have a video conference at 10 with members of the marketing team, which you've already rescheduled and can't reschedule, your noon with Verizon, 1300 you're free (walking back to her own desk, setting the notepad down.)
Claire (interrupting): Please add to the schedule for that time, before something else gets added, that I'm meeting you and Zach and Gray, then. How about (thinking of all the places in the Central Plaza area) we meet up at the Innovation Center?
Zara (typing it in): They'll like that, we could try for lunch then, the four of us.
Claire (rubbing her face): I wish but let's not push our luck here. I'll grab some take away (getting a smirk) and head over to Alex's office get her input on what's going on here.
Zara (continuing; wishing Claire would join them, knowing Claire was right): Then 1400 with ACU on a request for thermal reading software, Mr Masrani, an inspection and review of hiring policies…
Claire (waving her hand): Reschedule that please, next week, preferably early morning before noon but after 10.
Zara (adding more notes): Then your 1800 tour with Mr Aldridge after which your completely free until tomorrow where I cleared your schedule for the rest of the day the best I could.
Claire (thankfully; dropping her head to her desk at the size of her inbox): What do I have?
Zara (standing up): An inspection on the paddocks for containment and security measures, that corporate is wanting, (looking up) it's for insurance renewal on Monday.
Claire (frowning): And ACU can't do it why?
Zara (reminding her): Because they have a search and rescue training this weekend and you agreed to it two months ago. About half of the ACU team is attending the training, the other half will remain and cover shifts and staffing.
Claire (frustrated): I'm meeting with them at 1400 I'll see what I can do. I need your opinion, on the why are we all of a sudden having an issue with dinosaurs escaping out of, supposedly escape proof paddocks, and only the herbivores, which I'm glad it's the herbivores, yet still there's been an increase.
Zara (rubbing the back of her neck; loving these little q and a questions and the intricate little puzzles involved): Well my first question is why is the Styglimoch or any other dinosaur trying to break out of their habitat?
Claire (writing something down): We've always had one here or there, the past two months we've had more than in the past two years.
Zara (going through her notes): And it's not one or another, it is, but it's also the same ones. A repetitive pattern and I don't like it. I went to check on the (thinking) the Stegosaurus from the other day, no health issues, no wounds, nothing changed in the habitat.
Claire (thinking of something, going over a few previous conversations): Too many what ifs and not enough answers and when I asked Dr Wu about the genetic makeup seeing if there's a connection or a thread. I get his standard, I can't reveal all of the coding and sequences Ms Dearing. Some of it is advanced breakthrough technology.
Zara (running over previous conversations with Dr Wu, he was always polite, but his answers were to pat, to like he was hiding something or not revealing something): Claire shouldn't you know those things? I mean the make up, the genetics, what's going on with the dinosaurs.
Claire (remembering the heated phone calls): I spoke with Mr Masrani about that and he said Claire you do a fantastic job, don't worry about things that such as labs and research. Just make sure you spare no expenses, authorize the necessary forms and don't worry about it. (Sighing) so I don't know and if I don't know (glancing at Zara.
Zara (understanding): Then I don't know. (Tapping her chin in thought) well that's not right, I mean
you are the Operations Manager and this is your park, you run this place I think and it may not be my place to say but you should know what goes on in the labs.
Claire (sitting on the couch): It is your place, and you're right. I've looked into this with corporate the board, and I'm always told, make sure the visitors are happy, work with the sponsors and investors, ensure everyone is doing their jobs, keep up on the reports, make sure people are where they need to be, and everything else (waving her hand) all of the usual bylines. So yes I should know more about what the labs are doing but it's always the same. It's a dead issue that part of it at least, but the other part as to the why's and what's going on?
Zara (thinking): I could call Dr Rodriguez, and have her keep her eyes and ears open for anything.
Claire (agreeing): Good idea but subtle, tactful.
Zara (nodding): On it, oh dammit (looking at her cell phone) bugger off I'm not in the mood for you right now, get the hint that I'm unavailable for the bloody foreseeable future. Arsehat, arrogant inconsiderate...
Claire (getting up, having a very good idea of who it was): Alec again (Zara nodded and went back to her typing) honey…
Zara (siting down): Don't, (clenching and unclenching her jaw) don't Claire I'd rather not deal with that, (pursing her lips) Alec I mean, I have to leave in just under an hour to go pick up your nephews it can wait until later (biting her lower lip and resuming her work.)
Claire (looking at Zara then looking out the window): Right, (part of her not wanting to push Zara, the other part; no she was not going to leave it like that) no not okay. It's definitely not okay (figuring out what to do and then it hit her.) How many times is it this morning?
Zara (defensively): I'd rather not talk about it any further. Things are fine (watching as Claire approached her) Claire it's (she felt her mouth go dry as Claire parked herself on the edge of her desk; the skirt, sliding upwards a little, showing off toned legs) nothing.
Claire (cupping Zara's face; that was one way to derail the angsty brunette): Shh, I heard you, I heard you. Right now you being okay as you say (shaking her head) you're not okay I can see it in your body language, hear it in your voice (trailing her fingers down Zara's jaw.)
Zara (smiling at how Claire's gentle touch always soothed her): Someone could come through the door at any moment and how would that look.
Claire (smirking): They know better and with you being in the mood your in, it would be the last thing they would do (teasing) or they would run screaming out the door, (grinning) either one could work for me.
Zara (licking her lips): And you're, this is…
Claire (brushing back a lock of unruly hair): This is me getting you to hold still and focus for a few minutes. (Green eyes peered back at her, Claire noticed Zara was trying hard to breath and relax but Claire could see and practically feel the tense edgy energy.) You want to take the day, I'll cancel everything I have and the four of us hit the park, enjoy some time together, get to know my nephews, ignore the phones and everything else.
Zara (well Claire's answer was certainly unexpected, not that Claire was insensitive, it was usually the park and work were a priority; Claire's touch set her skin on fire, she was fighting a losing battle with herself; part of her wanted to say yes cancel the day and come with me, then there was the other part of her that said no we can't do that): I want you to, however, we can't because our jobs have to come first. We'd lose millions on the investment, the park would come crashing down (moaning as Claire pressed her lips to hers, her train of thought derailed at that moment.)
Claire (softly): If you asked me to I would tell them all to get lost (at this point she would too, if Zara needed her she would, Zara was not needy or clingy or demanding person, she was actually the complete opposite of those words, except when they were alone in their shared apartment or anywhere else they could have a little privacy and well that was a whole other story.)
Zara (wanted so many things, right now in this moment, steeling herself, tamping down the emotional upheaval, shaking her head): No I won't do that, you've worked your arse off for all of this Claire and I can't and won't do that. I'm having a rough go lately and I have to suck it up, move on, get my head in the game and be the partner you need me to be, in all aspects, regardless of whatever else is going on with me.
Claire (amazed): You are the partner (conviction) the woman I need you to be. (Locking her eyes with Zara's green ones) you're more important to me then all of this (gesturing) every single thing to do with my job is nothing compared to you and what I feel for you, Zara, (firmly) I would gladly cancel the rest of the day, pick up the boys and spend the day in the park, with you, the rest of everyone can go bugger off.
Zara (lowering her head; the truth): Masrani and the board would have your head, (ticking off her fingers) Masrani would have my ass, PR would have a field day and we'd both be fired, (exasperated breath) face it Claire even if we wanted to we couldn't (disappointment) no matter what we wanted, we can't or we couldn't.
Claire (hating that Zara was right): You're right, however you're important, we're important and sometimes it all takes a toll on you, the both of us. You need me, not as Claire Dearing Operations Manager you need me as Claire, your lover, your partner, your best friend and I'm not doing such a great job of it…
Zara (taking a moment, letting those words sink in; no one ever saw this side of Claire, the caring, compassionate, loving, wonderful brilliant woman; they only saw Claire as she let them see her, guarded, reserved standoffish, bossy, ice in her veins and that was the furthest from the truth but no one needed to know that): I appreciate that, it's with everything happening this morning and all that, that's the part where I have to get my head in the game, get my shit together and definitely not be doing this (gesturing.) And don't talk about yourself like that (blue eyes closed) no you look at me, look at me please (blue eyes opened) you are everything you said and more to me, so, so much more. (Trailing her fingers down Claire's face, feeling her shiver and tremble from the gentle touch) as for you not doing such a great job, it's bollocks, it's rubbish. You are the Operations Manager, you are my best friend, my partner, my lover (seductively) an excellent lover at that (smiling) you have to be you, all of those pieces combined otherwise it wouldn't be the same, you wouldn't be the woman I love.
Claire (Zara's words imprinting on her heart, unable to form words and turning them into action instead, standing up; motioning for Zara to get up; wrapping her arms around her): Come here (holding onto the younger woman; understanding a part of what she was going through; remembering when she was first promoted she had days like this, days where she felt she was going to crawl out of her skin, days where she wondered if she would get through the day, days where she felt like giving up) I've got you, and you, you this what you're going through and what you're feeling, you need to cry or breakdown then you do that and I'll hold you and keep you safe (Claire realized at that moment the stress was getting to be too much for the both of them, they both needed a dammed break and come Hades or high water they were going to get that break.)
Zara (closing her eyes breathing in Claire's scent, feeling her warmth): You know as much as I don't want to be out of the office, though getting to know your nephews is great, maybe its a good thing. (Claire gave her a puzzled look) it might give me a chance to calm down and figure all of this out (she felt a little better, maybe this was what she needed.)
Claire (pulling back): You could be right and I feel bad I'm putting more pressure on you and then I add to that asking you to step in and show Zach and Gray around where maybe you should be home or on the beach or relaxing by the pool.
Zara (reassuring): I don't mind spending time with your nephews, although I have absolutely zero experience with children so it will be a learning curve but I want to.
Claire (understanding Zara's words regarding her nephews): I get that part, the other part of me is like stop placing so much on her shoulders, I place a lot of stress on you, unnecessarily too at time...
Zara (firmly): No you don't, (vehemently) we're both stressed and everything is aggravating me (Claire's eyebrow arched) well not everything. (Squeezing Claire's hands) earlier when we were at the window when we were close like that and you and I were (clearing her throat) it felt amazing, felt like something clicked back into place and now with us you're amazing Claire, absolutely incredible. Like I said earlier I feel like I'm being clingy and I hate that.
Claire (chuckling): You clingy, hardly, and I don't mind if you are every now and then (Zara arched her eyebrow) ok you're not being clingy and it makes sense that we're both a little off, we don't make the time like we should, and since we trust each other and are so close to each (not enough) maybe it's our bodies way of reminding us that hey I like a little clingy and closeness, not just the little make out sessions, those are fantastic by the way (smiling) and brief meal breaks and little touches we both want more, need more and I love the way it feels.
Zara (staring, Claire didn't always say what she thought or felt, she was like that herself, but when Claire said things like that it blew her away;): Wow what you're saying is there might be a biological pressure valve that needs to be (chuckling) released.
Claire (thinking back to a journal piece she had read): Studies show that the biological need to indulge in carnal pleasure is the bodies of releasing stress, it can help with high blood pressure, insomnia, mood swings and other medical issues and other jargon (chuckling) it also releases endorphins in the brain that makes you feel good (something like that she thought.)
Zara (only Claire could spout scientific factual evidence and make it sound as good as she did; stifling a giggle): In other words you and I are a little over due for some (she blushed.) Well that explains that then (it was getting really warm in here.)
Claire (sucking in her lower lip): Yeah, I've been a little more prickly as well and maybe with the two of us and all of this and a little of that (blushing) and we definitely (rubbing the back of her neck.)
Zara (biting her lower lip; Claire was absolutely adorable): I see that explains this (she started laughing) it's not you, not you (leaning on the desk) oh Gods, Claire we're a mess.
Claire (laughing): We're a mess all right, and for your information Zara, you're a hot mess.
Zara (taking Claire's hand in her own): I needed that (chuckling) and I (trying to keep it together) you um us well we've concluded that we both need (pursing her lips) more of that (biting her lip.)
Claire (trying to pull it together with no luck): Well we've established (thinking of a word) we've established a theory, a hypothesis if you will, to explain what might be causing our current situation, unfortunately we can't test that at this point (trying to keep a straight face) so..
Zara (stifling another chuckle): We have to come up with a plan to proceed, work on that plan and test the theory out, probably more than once and review the results (trying to keep a straight face.)
Claire (squeezing her hand): I think a repetitive test to ensure all the variables are included and conducted thouroughly. Once might be fluke, twice, no I definitely feel a repetitive test is absolutely necessary for research purposes (laughing.
Zara (snickering): Gods that, that feels good to laugh and I know that (clearing her throat) that will definitely feel more than good, the repetitive testing.
Claire (relieved at the more relaxed mood): Feel a little better (Zara smiled) now (taking a breath) back to the business at hand (pointing her finger) don't go there, please.
Zara (pursing her lips together at the thought, but focusing): Right, back to the badge, access and code issue, and the loss of comms at the north end of the park.
Claire (looking at her desk; the pile of reports and paperwork had tripled): Do we have the list of employee badge numbers that…
Zara (pointing): Left side, third report..
Claire (grabbing it): Let's look at what we have here (grabbing her pen and notepad, jotting a few things down.) Zara what does this look like to you?
Zara (picking up her own report): Numbers, id's, denied access, denied access (seeing a pattern) wait a minute (turning in her chair) I've seen this before…
Claire (jumping up): You mean to tell me that this has happened before? (Anger, frustration) why wasn't I informed (leaning over Zara?) This is supposed to be a direct alert and report.
Zara (typing in information): Not this, not this access request, whatever it is (concerned blues glanced at her) I'm saying it resembles something called a DOS, a denial of service attack or brute force. Someone's trying to get the code to the door or override the default code, that way a badge that is pre-programmed to that specific code can access the door? A badge that isn't part of the parks operational badges at that and a code that isn't ours. Question I have is who or why? What the actual well what's actually going on here?
Claire (pacing in front of Zara's desk): Is there any way to trace it? (More pacing) is it possible it's a hacker? (If they had a hacker on their hands they needed to be found and shut down immediately.)
Zara (puzzled): It's a very strong possibility Claire. (Thinking what Claire was thinking) Doesn't explain why cameras near the lab were down for 15 minutes (reviewing the information) or maybe it does. This doesn't look like a remote attempt, not coming from the outside, it's got to be within the park, somewhere.
Claire (walking over to her desk): I'm contacting ACU, Security and Parks, and sending a wide alert,
Zara (typing in a command and giving it a few minutes): I'm sending the information to Alex as we speak and we're still waiting on Vivian I'm forwarding her as well.
Claire (mouthing a thank you): Captain, Claire Dearing, we seem to have an issue with badge access and cameras shutting down. I want answers before this goes any further or something happens. The Park opens in less than 1 hour. (Repeating the call to ACU and Parks) that's done, alert has been sent, watch how many what's going on email messages we get?
Zara (pulled up the results, copied and pasted them in a note file): I'm trying to see if we can try and trace this bugger backward and get an idea of what is actually going on.
Claire (pulling up another program): The badge numbers are read as 16 bit, 32 bit, 48 bit, 56 bit and 64 bit codes, depending on the job, the area of the park, access granted to what areas, further broken down by shift and level of management or non management.
Zara (realizing they had a very serious problem): I'm sending Alex a request to start locking down badge access to any areas not in the immediate job description…
Claire (holding up her hand): Wait not yet hold on, hold on let's try something else first. I'll go shift by shift, department by department, shut access off that way. First shift first seeing as everyone is on shift and working, I'm locking out everyone from everything except meals for now. Zara start locking out 2nd and 3rd shift from anything not related to work, transportation or meals, immediately. That way there's an easier way to go through the list instead of locking everyone and everything down at once.
Zara (understanding Claire's plan) And if that doesn't work.
Claire (the gravity of the situation weighing on her): Then we go with your plan, then if I have to (gritting her teeth) I will personally go through each department no matter which one and deal with it in person.
Zara (typing in the requested information and setting up the parameters): You do realize that people are not going to be happy that they can't wander the park at random.
Claire (this was going to cause headaches): If they have a problem they can come to me. We can't endanger anyone or anything whether its human or animal, regardless.
Zara (wanting to make sure): Does that include us too?
Claire (chuckling): Well that could be interesting wouldn't you think? I can imagine the phone calls, and my answer would be, no I'm sorry I'm afraid I'm locked out of our system (focus Claire) no baby, we leave our access as is. Instead what you and I will do, is keep a log or a note of where we are throughout the day, that way I don't have someone in here complaining about what we did and we weren't limited. Also keep Alex's open as well, but put a monitor on her badge, separate from the rest and Vivian's as well. I'll handle the fallout if I have to but they won't give it to much thought because they know what's going on already.
Zara (considering other options): We do have the issue with comms as well, that could potentially leave a door open.
Claire (leaning forward): I'll call Park Services have them expand their patrol up that way and log it.
Zara (looking at the clock on her computer): I hate to leave you in the middle of this but if I don't leave now then I won't get there on time.
Claire (pausing; she felt a weird sensation, something she couldn't quite put her finger on, she had felt it earlier but chalked it up to not enough sleep): Zara, please be careful today, roaming the park and all (a quizzical look) maybe it's the heat or not enough sleep just, just promise me you'll be careful (Zara nodded) and if I call you back to command (wincing at her words) I mean if I ask you to come back…
Zara (understanding): I'll return straight away. No questions asked.
Claire (standing and hugging Zara tightly for a moment): Have fun, don't let the boys run you ragged and I'll see you at 1300.
Zara (kissing Claire on the corner of her mouth): See you then, if you do get to ream someone's arse I want details (grabbing her purse and phone and walking out the door.)
Neither woman knew at the moment that this was the last time they would be in the office working together. Neither Claire Dearing or Zara Young knew that this was only the beginning of the storm about to hit the park. And neither one knew what would happen, what it would cost one and almost cost the other.