Lacuna Coil
Under The Surface
"Beneath the gloss
There is no escape
You're looking sharp
But the smile is fake
There's much more
That hides behind
All your senses are compelled to lie"
Isla Nublar
Labs
1715
Dr Wu (dialing his contact's number with trepidation): The plans are a little delayed. The code altering is not going according to plan because the device doesn't work. We've made two attempts and they failed. (Taking a breath) not to mention Ms Dearing has restricted badge access to all employees regarding the research material and it's paddock.
Female Voice: I don't want excuses, I need the data, I need the research. (Silence) The deadline is almost up, I want what you promised you need to do your dam job, fix this Dr Wu. A woman, you can't fulfill your end of the bargain because of one woman.
Dr Wu squaring his shoulders): Ms Dearing is not just a woman she is the Operations Manager of the Park…
Female Voice: Then she's not in charge of the labs nor is she a scientist, she isn't your boss you don't answer to her (yelling) what is the exact issue? If you need to create something for Ms Dearing to be occupied with so you can fulfill your end of the bargain (loudly) then do so.
Dr Wu (tense): It's also her assistant and the situation is a little more involved then that….
Female Voice: I don't care (yelling) I want what you promised. You said you could do this without any problem so far all I have are excuses and now you tell me two woman neither who work in the science division are a concern. Deal with them, I don't care how just get me the data and research and no more excuses.
Dr Wu (loudly): Then send me a working code so I can complete the project on time and fulfill my end of the deal. Get me something that works or I'm out.
Female Voice: The code is fine, it's your people who aren't doing it correctly.
Dr Wu (nervously): My people are not the problem, your device is and I need another means to complete this project. Without it we can't conduct or continue the field research.
Female Voice: Without the research and you fulfilling your part of the bargain then you won't get paid.
Dr Wu (angrily): I need something that actually works to complete this.
Female Voice: You're lucky you're still useful but seeing as you still haven't done what you were supposed to I will entertain your request, a new code, which you should receive in a few hours and once you do I want the project and research completed immediately. You know what will happen if you fail Dr Wu. And I don't think you will like that, the next time you call me, it better be with better news.
Claire's Suite
1800
Claire smiled glad to be home and done for the day earlier than she could remember. Swiping her badge and entering the code for the apartment, she entered the small foyer and dropped her keys in the bowl on the small table. Walking around the corner she was greeted by the sight of her lover lounging on the couch, tablet in one hand, report in the other, dressed in a t shirt and boxer shorts which gave Claire a wonderful view of toned legs. Green eyes looked up and Claire felt her skin flush at the warm smile directed at her.)
Claire (kicking off her shoes and padding over to the couch): How are you (sitting next to her?)
Zara (setting the tablet and reports down on the coffee table, enjoying the warmth of Claire's body pressing into her side): Better, I've been reviewing the reports and logs (motioning) we're also investigating another angle (Claire's questioning look) there's a possibility that someone could be testing our systems for weaknesses or a flaw or something else we're not seeing. It's the only other possible logical conclusion that we can think of.
Claire (rubbing her face with her hand; that wasn't good; recalling the critical infrastructure backups and fail safes): I hope the fuck not (remembering) even with the backups, the UPS and remote security locks and all the other measures put in place before we opened (nervous) that would be...
Zara (questioning, rubbing Claire's arm): Well first off, they're continually updated and reviewed, right (Claire nodded?) And someone would know something the minute there were any issues (another nod.) Then we continue with the monitoring, double check our information and keep all badge access as is.
Claire (running through a few lists in her head): Zara, as you know, all of the park systems were designed that if there was an issue, one point of failure wouldn't end up taking down a whole system. (Picking up a report glancing at it) the other measures that were put into place are like you said, UPS, backups, updates and that information is also sent to corporate every 8 or 12 hours as backup. I did the review last month through a video conference and everything is working as it should. I double checked that information twice, and its working as it was designed to.
Zara (leaning back): And if anything looks out of place then we'll know about it (Claire nodded.)
Is there anything else, anything we might be missing?
Claire (biting her bottom lip): Not that I can think of, you and Alex and Vivian are doing a great job with this. (A breath) I have good news (a smile) Mr Masrani gave us Monday off, the both of us. I figure we can work from home, review all the reports and data from the weekend and then I don't know head down to the beach or whatever you like.
Zara (bit her lip at the thought of Claire's mention of Monday): Monday is well there's something else going on, on Monday that might curtail us going to the beach for a few hours (closing her eyes taking a breath.)
Claire (watching Zara tense and fidget): Why? What else do we have? (Did she forget an appointment, something to do with work that she had overlooked or had forgotten, noticing Zara?) Zara, what's going on, what's the matter?
Zara (looking at the ceiling, then at Claire): I broke it off with Alec…
Claire (arching her eyebrow): And (concern) whatever it is you can tell me? (Squeezing Zara's hand) honey, if it's a legal issue I'll call them right now?
Zara (putting her head down): I was speaking to him on the phone and he insisted on a video chat, I refused we argued (feeling Claire's body tense up) then I don't know he wanted to come here, told me he would be here Monday. Gave me some bullshit and no matter what I said and even after I told him I didn't want to see him he refused to listen (Claire was off the couch and on her feet in an instant.)
Claire (pacing, planning): He what, that (thinking) that ass, Pacing, waving her arms) I can ban him from the park, (motioning) have a security team there to escort his ass off my island. (Pacing some more) I can also call and have him detained at the airport and sent right back to London in cargo (louder facing Zara.) If you don't want him, I won't even give a chance to get off the dam plane (pointedly.) (Firmly) you are your own woman, free to do as you choose (Zara smirked) and I'm not doubting you, it's just (there had always been something, something off with Alec, something Claire couldn't quite put her finger on) I just want you to be all right and if there's something I can do (a moment) then I'm here.
Zara (not surprised at Claire's reaction, it was a sweet gesture and she knew Claire was only concerned for her well being; she had wanted to deal with this on her own; there were things Claire didn't know about and she wasn't going to tell her not now): Claire, love, come here, I'll be fine (reaching for her irritated lover and pulling her back down to the couch.) Claire, calm down darling (gazing into blue eyes) that is (grinning) sweet (in Claire's usual over the top way.)
Claire (cupping Zara's face): Whatever it is, whatever is going on, you can tell me (looking into green eyes) I just (a moment) I know sometimes I'm difficult to deal with but this (trailing her fingers down Zara's cheek) us, you, you're the most amazing, beautiful part of my life (a breath.)
Zara (falling more in love with this woman): You difficult (chuckling...)
Claire (holding the gaze): I can be, I can be controlling (a smile) domineering (another smirk) and I sometimes (licking her lips) put work before anything else.
Zara (reaching up to brush back Claire's hair): You have to, you have to put up this wall, that side of you to succeed, to get where you are. I have the utmost respect for you (Claire's wide eyed look) and what you've accomplished in a field mostly dominated by men, is extraordinary. (Taking Claire's hands in her own) like our conversation earlier, the different parts of you, if any of those parts were different or they changed then you wouldn't be the woman I love, the woman I want to be with.
Claire (closing her eyes at the words as they touched her in a way no one ever had, it touched her so deeply, she felt undeserving, unworthy): You tell me I'm amazing, that I'm extraordinary…
Zara (blushing): We're not talking about me, we're talking about you (pressing their foreheads together) mo ghrá, mo gach rud, croí álainn (tilting her head down) and I say you're incredible (touching her lips to Claire's, gentle, teasing, breath mingling, words no longer necessary.)
Claire (cupping Zara's face, their eyes met for a moment then she slid her tongue inside Zara's mouth, wanting to taste, to feel and convey her feelings, soft sighs and moans then she felt Zara shift and move without breaking the kiss, Zara straddled her lap; reaching down to grasp Zara's hips): My everything I didn't know I was looking for (gazing into green eyes.)
Zara (pressing their bodies flush together, soft lips on soft lips, Claire's hands rubbing over her back, rocking slowly against Claire's): Love (moving her mouth down Claire's jaw, pressing light kisses along the delicate pale throat.)
Claire (leaning into Zara's heated kisses; she wondered if they should be doing this, now, was this truly what Zara wanted or was it her way of deflecting pushing things aside): Baby (groaning as teeth grazed her pulse point, soft lips soothing the mark) Zara (trembling as Zara's hands moved to under her blazer, setting her skin on fire as Zara's hands grazed her bare skin) Zara (arching into her lover's touch; moaning with need; they needed to slow this down) wait (smoldering green eyes regarded her with a quizzical, confused look.)
Zara (aching, burning): We have a little time before you have to make your dinner date (reaching for the buttons on Claire's blazer, Claire's hands held hers still.) What? What's wrong?
Claire (gently, panting): You (tilting her head back) I'm worried (licking her lips) continuing when it's been a roller coaster of a day emotionally, I want to make sure this is really what you want….
Zara (softly, promising, wanting Claire's touch): Claire I'm fine, (smirking) I'll be even better in a few moments (pressing down harder) I want you Claire, I want to feel you, only you (leaning forward her hands reaching for the Claire's blazer again only to be stopped, frustrated breath, growling.)
Claire (swallowing, melting under Zara's touch): And I want you, I want to touch you, what I don't want is to do something that one of us might regret or cause pain. (Softly) your well being is more important to me than (Zara's sensual movements were driving her own desires higher, her self control razor thin) baby...
Zara (feeling Claire's heated gaze, the smoldering look): My well being you say (tracing her fingers along Claire's throat) lately me and my well being have taken quite a hit so (placing one hand on the back of the couch, pressing her lips and her body against Claire's trailing her tongue along Claire's lower lip, watching blue eyes darken with lust as she settled, her clothed heated sex pressing hard against Claire's lap, letting out a wanton moan.) I thought you could take care of my well being and yours and (leaning forward her lips pressed against Claire's ear) and we could test out that theory of ours (nipping her ear and grinding against Claire for friction and to ease the fiery ache building inside her, nipping and kissing Claire's neck, wanting needing to get lost in Claire, in them and not think about anything else at that moment)
Claire (fighting a losing battle of lust and want and responsibility; gripping Zara's hips; moaning as teeth and lips nibbled at her neck, Zara's tongue blazing a fiery path across exposed skin, pulling back looking in green eyes, panting): Zara as much as I (pushing against her lover, her body demanding more stifling a moan as Zara's hands cupped her breasts through her shirt and jacket) I, (stammering) I want to make sure this is what you want. (Capturing Zara's hands and kissing the back of her knuckles, she could feel Zara's heat pressed against her, she tried to keep her thoughts on her lover's well being while her lover ground against her, it felt so good) I don't want to hurt you or force (Zara's hands guided Claire's hand to her ass) you, Gods (swallowing hard, her hands cupping Zara's ass instinctively; pulling Zara harder into her.)
Zara (grinding down into Claire's lap): I want, (moaning at the fire building inside her) I want to feel Claire, I want you to tear me down and build me back up, shatter me into a million pieces (leaning her head against Claire's; panting, the pressure against her clit felt amazing) I want you Claire, this, us (grinding harder, wanting to lose herself completely in passion and lust and Claire.)
Claire (trying to slow this situation right down): Sweetheart (desperately trying to keep her hips still, trying not give in to what her body wanted, demanded, still unsure if this was the best idea especially when she wasn't sure Zara was ready) Gods you feel so good (hooded green eyes pleaded) but I don't want to do something where you could get hurt, or I could hurt you (cupping Zara's face, her lips pressing against Claire's wrists, it was getting harder and harder to think, primal instincts screaming, her heart pounding against her rib cage, needing wanting to surrender to the fire and heat, control slipping bit by lusty bit) I never want to hurt you or cause you pain (pleading whimpers) you're more important then (her throat went dry, she could hear her heart pounding in her ears and she swallowed hard, her control slipped even further, her hands clenched as Zara was up and off her lap and oh my gods, the tension in the air cracked, her mouth went completely dry, wetness flooded her core coating her inner thighs. eyes widening at the beautiful, wanton sight in front of her.)
Zara (climbing off Claire's lap faster than Claire could grab her, blue eyes widening, Claire's pupils blown wide with lust and want, her lips wet, Claire's hands clenching, her breath raspy, watching Claire's eyes as her control shattered; yanking her boxers down and practically ripping of her t shirt): What does this tell you (cupping her breasts watching Claire's blue eyes stare at her, a look of lust and want and need and Zara needed, ached. Taking Claire's hand in her own and guiding it between her legs) you feel that, do you feel what you do to me (yelping in surprise as Claire yanked her back down; her legs pressing against the couch, settling on Claire's lap; reaching for Claire's clothes pushing her skirt up helping her out of her jacket and shirt, tugging on Claire's bra, yanking it off, bending her head to Claire's chest.)
Claire (closing her eyes as her shirt and bra were practically torn off; crying out as lips and teeth captured her nipple.) Fuck (clutching the back of Zara's head, not yanking or pulling just holding her against her chest and reveling in the sensations of what Zara's mouth, teeth and lips were doing to her nipple, while her other hand was tugging and pulling on the adjacent nipple, fire, heat straight to her core.)
Zara (releasing Claire's nipple with a pop): Claire please, please (raspy lilt more pronounced; her skin on fire, the pressure building in the pit of her stomach; whimpering as Claire's hands cupped her breasts pulling on both of her nipples at the same time, the sensation ratcheting up her desire further and further) fuck…
Claire (pressing one hand against Zara's back to steady her, the other she moved to her right breast, rubbing her fingers over the hardened peak, reveling in Zara's needy moans and whimpers, leaning forward she kissed around Zara's left breast, lapping and scraping her teeth over the hardened peak feeling the tremors and tension in her lover's body): Whatever you need (focusing on Zara's pleasure completely.)
Zara (grabbing Claire's hand; pressing it between her legs): Claire (pressing her lips to hers, her tongue teasing Claire's bottom lip, nibbling lightly) goddess please (their kiss sloppy hungry needy.)
Claire (never one to resist Zara's pleading tone, pressing her finger against Zara's clit, rubbing and teasing the hardened bundle of nerves slowly): I've got you (continuing to move her finger the way she knew Zara loved, sliding her middle finger down pressing against the edge of Zara's opening, her silky wetness making it easy for her to slip inside up to the first knuckle, letting Zara feel her, take what she wanted, as she knew Zara didn't like to always be fully penetrated and sometimes not penetrated at all.)
Zara (grinding her hips against Claire's hand; loving the way Claire rubbed and teased her clit, the way she held her finger just inside): Claire (gasping, pleading, whimpering then pushing down signaling Claire to go inside, she wanted it all, wanted everything Claire could giver her.)
Claire (wetness coating her inner thighs as she pushed her middle finger in all the way; holding still, letting Zara set the pace): Let go, let go for me (Zara's lips parted, wanton cries fell forth) I've got you sweetheart (sliding her finger in and out, Zara setting the pace, rocking slowly.) That's it baby, that's it, whatever you want, you're safe.
Zara (pushing down on Claire's finger): Fuck, fuck Claire (she felt the burning fire start low in her belly, her skin felt hot flush, the smoldering feeling all throughout her body, Claire's touch burning through her, searing into every fiber of her being, her muscles tightened, body tensing for the storm that was about to overcome her) bloody fuck (passion, pleasure burned her, burned through her veins, Claire stroking her, holding her tightly, grinding harder, she exploded, the first wave hit her like molten lava burning her in its wake, her mouth open in a stifled scream, eyes clenched, her body trembling and shaking, she barely caught her breath and she could gain her bearings another wave built on top of the first, this time stealing her breath and strength and Claire burned her, burned her touch into her body and she never wanted her to stop.)
Claire (found the sight of Zara in the throes of passion one of the most beautiful things she had ever seen; as she pleasured Zara she loved the look on her face, lost, relaxed and the sounds from Zara's lips, those sounds alone pushed her need higher, the feel of her silken wet, heat, made her skin prickle their lips pressed against each other, breath mingling, unsure of where she began and ended): You're beautiful, stunning, melting into me and my touch…
Zara (melting into those words, melting further into Claire; the tremors wracking her body, her core clenching, wetness coating her inner thighs and Claire's lap): Claire (riding out her pleasure; her name falling from her lips over and over.)
Claire (keeping her hand still; wrapping her arm around Zara's sweaty heaving body): I've got you (Zara rested her head on her shoulder panting; trembling in her arms) I love you (a few moments of quiet as Zara rode out her pleasure, Claire rubbed her back, kissing Zara's face; soft hair brushed her shoulder as Zara turned her face then she felt wetness coating her own shoulder, concerned) Zara (Claire knew she should have stopped, regained more control, what if she hurt her, what if) honey what's wrong (she had pushed Zara too hard, if she had she would never forgive herself) baby…
Zara (leaning back; tears ran down her face): I that was amazing, (seeing the look of worry and concern and could only imagine where Claire's mind went, when she realized she was crying) it was intense and beautiful and everything (capturing Claire's lips in a delicate kiss trying to say what she could in the kiss what she couldn't say with words.) You, Claire Dearing, are amazing, incredible (another slow teasing kiss) part of me feels as though you're holding my soul (pressing her forehead against Claire's.)
Claire (the words washing over her, reassuring her): I love you (gazing into Zara's eyes.)
Zara (grinning gazing back): I love you (snuggling further into Claire, resting her head on Claire's shoulder, savoring the closeness and skin to skin, Claire's warmth her heat.)
Claire (tracing random patterns along Zara's back): Feels so good to hold you, like this (pressing a kiss to the top of Zara's head. Zara's hand slid down her body, pressing against the inside of her thighs) Zara (slamming her eyes shut as deft fingers touched her gently and slowly, pressing against her hardened bundle of nerves.)
Zara (kissing Claire): Relax, let me have you (trailing her fingers lower) I love you.
Claire surrendered to Zara's touch, moaning and whimpering, it wasn't going to take much and Claire surrendered to Zara to their love and the fire building inside her.
Labs
1855
Dr Soren (placing several vials in the specifically designed freezer for long term storage): We'll know by tomorrow morning if the DNA sequencing will hold, (writing down a few notes) if it does then we can have another hybrid produced within the month.
Dr Wu (reading over her notes): Good, In Gen wants to start mass production and marketing on the hybrids in three months, (turning) if we can sell even just one, the money alone could further our research into other areas not previously explored. We will be further ahead than any competitor out there (smiling) we'll own the market and be able to name our price.
Dr Soren (typing in some information): I'm still worried about stability, viability, and the safety, also the mental and physical health and needs of such a creature. (Pointing to her research notes) cloning a human's DNA and tissue is one matter, (glancing at Dr Wu) cloning a dinosaur's DNA and tissue is another. (Pausing) combining the two is another matter of a whole different set of parameters and concerns.
Dr (squeezing her shoulder): The initial results look promising, we need further research and time and that is why we're creating hybrids, the money alone will provide more than enough funding for both. (Pouring them both a cup of tea) think about it, once we have the hybrids we will be able to name our price, we'll own the market, force our competitors to come to us.
Dr Soren (taking a sip of her tea): Our deadline is almost up we need that information…
Dr Wu (grinning): Make sure you stay inside the labs tomorrow then…
Dr Soren (excitedly): Then it's tomorrow, are you sure it's going to work?
Dr Wu (chuckling): Once, Hoskins does his part, the Indominus will do hers. (His smirk evil) ACU will be able tranquilizer her, and once that happens she'll go back to her enclosure and things will be fine.
Dr Soren (having seen how dangerous the Indominus could be in its enclosure): Are you sure? (Worry) what if it can't be stopped, ACU will kill the Indominus with no hesitation and then what? (A moment) all that time, money and research will be down the drain?
Dr Wu (ignoring her concerns): They won't kill it, (waving his hand) Mr Masrani would not waste billions of dollars in research, time and material. Things will be fine, like I said ACU will be able to tranquilize it, sedate it and put it back in the enclosure before it gets anywhere near the park. (Grinning) and then we'll have our small field test results our research and our money (proudly.)
Dr Soren (agreeing): You're right (still worried over the idea of the Indominus getting loose) of course. (Smiling) then I'll be able to get off this island and work in a lab where I don't have to answer questions and abide by policy. (Distastefully) or have an inept, unappreciative Operations Manager asking questions or demanding to know what our research is.
Dr Wu (nodding): Yes, our lab, our rules our ideas, free, untamed, unquestioned. (Dismissively) and don't worry about Ms Dearing, that will be well in hand.
Dr Soren (thinking): You do know that Ms Dearing's assistant (chuckling) will become the General Manager of the park if anything happens to her or if she's unable to perform her job duties.
Dr Wu (unconcerned): I said not to worry, things will be well in hand.
Dr Soren (standing): Good, I'm heading out I'll see you tomorrow doctor.
Dr Wu (bowing his head): Have a nice evening doctor (watching her leave the lab) too bad doctor, too bad you won't be alive to see the results. We can't have any loose ends nor am I planning on sharing. (Pulling out his phone dialing the familiar number) get it done tonight, I believe this time it will work.
Ending the call he looked around the lab and grinned evilly, tomorrow couldn't come fast enough.)
1925
Claire's Suite
Zara (padding down the hall to the bathroom carrying a thermal mug with a straw sticking out of it; smiling at how good she felt, their brief round of lovemaking had been incredible, they connected in a way that they hadn't in a long time, nor could it be described, no one else had ever made her feel half as of what Claire did, and if it wasn't for Claire's dinner date they would have continued; first things first Claire needed her coffee): Claire…
Claire (poking her head out of the shower): Thank (noticing the straw) you what is a straw doing….
Zara (smirking): Well you have a dinner date, you're running a tad behind and I know you, you need your coffee and how to get said coffee without diluting it and well…
Claire (taking a sip, grateful for Zara's thoughtfulness): Hence the straw (a knowing smirk.) We could share the shower (reaching for Zara only for her to move back, just out of reach. She wanted to pull Zara in with her, press her against the tiles of the shower and continue where they had left off. Tilting her head back, she had a dinner to get to and she cursed silently being responsible sucked at times, especially when she was still aching and burning with need.) Sorry um what….
Zara (mischievously): Mind out of the gutter, Ms Dearing (Claire smiled shyly) finish your shower, your outfit is ready and I'll be in the kitchen to (admiring the gorgeous view of her lover, naked, wet from the shower) yes well (her sex clenching, clearing her throat) em uh yeah.
Claire (finishing rinsing off): You're incorrigible, insubordinate (a teasing smirk) and you started this (stepping over the lip of the shower; grabbing the towel, following Zara and grabbing her arm, turning her around to face her, she didn't want Zara to feel left out or her little transgression to go unnoticed) you are a tease.
Zara (pressing her hand against Claire's naked stomach): Darling (moaning as Claire silenced her with a heated kiss) fuck we (taking a breath) you…
Claire (another kiss): Me yes (pressing open mouthed kisses along Zara's jaw and neck; delighting in Zara's moans and trembling.)
Zara (barely resisting): You, your nephews and (shivering as Claire's hand pressed between her legs) we have to (clutching Claire's shoulders) fuck (whimpering as Claire's fingers slipped inside her boxers and trailed through her wetness and heat, teasing her, pressing against her need and then she stopped. Just bloody stopped and backed up) Claire Elizabeth Dearing (a wicked smiled on Claire's lips) you…
Claire (she would pay for this later): Me (smirking, loving Zara's flushed face, raspy panting breaths. Watching Zara out of the corner of her eye, she dressed in the jeans and polo Zara had set out for her) me what sweetheart?
Zara (growling): You're going to pay for that (making a playful lunge for Claire, only to be stung on the bum with Claire's towel) hey ooh I see how it is (Claire would definitely pay for that, biting her lip) you know if you're going to spank me then do it properly (winking.)
Claire (holding the towel in front of her; Zara was going to drive her out of her mind): I promise to take very good care of you later (Zara's eyebrow arched.)
Zara (seductively): You're still going to pay (a light kiss to Claire's lips) and pay dearly, love (sauntering out of the bedroom on shaky legs.)
Claire watched her for a moment then headed back into the bathroom to get ready. Paybacks were going to be fun, the playful banter reminding of her when they first came to their senses and recognized their feelings. Back then they could barely keep their hands or mouths off of each other and had nearly gotten caught several times. When had that happened last? When was the last time, that they had pushed work aside, for more than a few moments to play, to tease, and seduce each other? That had to change to?
Claire smiled at how Zara was everything she had wanted and more. She was an amazing woman, friend and lover. She was smart, tenacious, didn't take any shit from anyone and certainly didn't back down from anything no matter the challenge. And Zara, she challenged Claire on so many levels, in so many ways, Zara Young was truly a partner in all sense of the word. Finishing getting ready she made a promise to try harder, work at their relationship and try to take time out daily for them.
Claire (strapping her watch to her wrist and slipping her feet into her heels she walked into the kitchen to find Zara out on the balcony): I'm getting ready to leave. (Seductively) when I get back you and I.
Zara (understanding): It's fine sweetheart, I'll just have to find ways to occupy myself (chuckling.)
Claire (another flush of heat and wet): I'm sure you will (clearing her throat.)
Zara (setting her mug down, reassuring Claire): Go have fun, enjoy yourself, spend time with your nephews and relax. (Biting her lip) and I mean it relax, they want to get to know you, get closer to you.
Claire (wrapping her arms around Zara; she could never get enough of being close to her, holding her, their bodies flush together like this): What would I do without you?
Zara (playfully): Well let's see, you'd probably forget to eat for starters, be incredibly late for meetings, bugger up your itinerary, lose your reports and paperwork (moaning as Claire's lips captured hers) and forget to charge your phone.
Claire (laughing; teasing): Again gross insubordination (mischievous wink) I'll have to do something about that Ms Young (her tone light and playful.)
Zara (thinking of several different ideas): Well Ms Dearing (her voice low and seductive) it'll have to wait until later until you can really do something about it (pressing a kiss to Claire's cheek) I mean I think I need a thorough reminder (wickedly) of how I'm supposed to behave (pressing a kiss to Claire's mouth.)
Claire (Gods, she was this close to her breaking point again): You behave (rolling her eyes) no you're incorrigible, insubordinate, inappropriate (cupping Zara's face and kissing her soundly) and I wouldn't change it for anything. (Patting Zara's ass) though I do think we need to work on your behavior. I'm sure (another light kiss) I've neglectful ...
Zara (pressing a finger to her lips): Don't finish that (mischievously) think of earlier as an (pushing back a lock of Claire's hair) appetizer (trailing her fingers along Claire's jaw, enjoying the little shiver) a prelude to later and I look forward to (grinning) you reminding me of my awful behavior (laughing.)
Claire (groaning): You're a tease….
Zara (stepping back): I am not (biting her lip) go on (watching Claire walk back into the apartment grab her bag, Claire turned around and smiled at her then left.) What a woman (proudly) an absolute amazing woman. (Blowing out a breath) whew well then now what am I supposed to do (a light laugh?)
Hotel
2130 Hrs
Claire (waiting until Zach swiped his badge): Did you have a good time tonight?
Gray (yawning): I had a great time and that guy in the costume was so funny. (Referring to the family dinosaur themed restaurant they had eaten dinner at. Various people dressed in dinosaurs costumes, served food and drinks to the restaurant patrons and performed little acts.)
Zach (he had enjoyed it himself even though it was geared for younger kids it was still fun): The food was great and it was pretty cool.
Claire (Zach had asked her earlier if he could talk to her about something): Gray, why don't you get changed and ready for bed, Zach and I will be on the balcony okay.
Gray (looking at his aunt and his older brother): Okay (yawning again and heading into the bathroom with a change of clothes and his toothbrush.)
Claire (motioning to the balcony): Is everything all right? Are you all right? Do you want me to stay here for the night? I can get a cot brought up and Zara can bring me a change of clothes (rambling as she often did when she got nervous.)
Zach (leaving the french door partially cracked so he could listen for Gray): No, no everything's good, everything's fine. (Smiling shyly) Aunt Claire I'm 15 I think I can handle a few nights in a hotel room with my brother. (Leaning on the railing, enjoying the view of the park and the lights in the background.)
Claire (worry, concern): What is it then (standing next to him, wanting to reassure Zach put her arm around him, but she wasn't sure what was going on and didn't want to pressure him; she hadn't been around him much growing up either?)
Zach (turning and facing her): If I ask you something will you answer me, be honest with me?
Claire (wondering): If I can answer you and of course I'll tell you the truth (what had happened?)
Zach (taking a breath): Zara the woman we were with today she's more than, more than your coworker (blunt, direct and watching his aunt shift, look around, a light laugh to hide her nervousness, she was just like his mother in that way.)
Claire (wondering how this conversation had started): Zach that's (clearing her throat) Zach, she's an amazing woman why (considering) Zach she's (blurting it out) your sixteen she's older than you and that (shaking her head) wow, I had, I….
Zach (wide eyed): No, no, (shaking his head) no not that. Uh not definitely not that (shaking his head. Watching his aunt her eyebrow arched, posture stiff) I mean she's pretty and she's cool to hang out with and (rubbing his face) Aunt Claire I'm not (a moment) I don't want to ask her out or anything.
Claire (agreeing): Good because that would be completely inappropriate and out of the question. You're still in high school for one, the age difference is another matter and the long distance alone and…
Zach (rubbing his face): I don't want to date her even though I'm old enough to date (mumbling.)
Claire (wide eyed): You are (thinking) well you can't she's not available (what was going on here? How had she this conversation started?)
Zach (finally; one way to get to the point): Because she's dating you am I right? (Silence, his aunt fidgeted, began pacing) I believe you love who you love right (blue eyes peered at him) it shouldn't matter. (Frustrated) are you going to tell me that I don't understand or that I'm too young (putting his hand on her shoulder hesitantly) Aunt Claire it's you're happy, right? (She nodded) I have gay friends at school, my best friend has two dads.
Claire (blurting it out): And I bet your mom and dad aren't too happy with you hanging around them (wincing.)
Zach (knowing it was the core of the issue all along): Dad he's just stubborn, he makes comments remarks and mom (pausing) she's I know what happened Aunt Claire, I put the pieces together after she said something and when her and my dad got into an argument about who I was hanging out. (Realizing) that's why you don't come to visit, why we haven't seen you?
Claire (swallowing hard): Please believe me when I say that it never had anything to do with you and Gray. (Firmly) I wanted to be there, I wanted to be a part of your lives in person and not so far away. (A breath) I didn't feel welcome there and I could have tried harder, then well work and now I certainly won't going to drag Zara into it until your mother and I can talk things out (knowing that, that was unlikely to happen.)
Zach (understanding; having had figured it all out): I understand, (smiling) you video call us and you never forget our birthdays or the holidays, although we wish you would be there. Mom's been a little better but with the divorce and work she's having a tough go. Doesn't make it right, but she's been listening more.
Claire (grateful that at least he understood): It's hard and I didn't want to bring it up when (fidgeting) I wanted you and Gray to come here, enjoy yourselves and have fun. I'm glad to hear that's she's listening and it's between her and I, it has nothing to do with you. The divorce has nothing to do with you.
Zach (nodding): I know, I know that Aunt Claire and so does Gray. (A breath) you wouldn't have said anything at all if I didn't bring it up.
Claire (partially understanding where Zach was coming from): I didn't say anything because (pausing) because I wasn't sure it was my place or how you would feel or if it would bother you. (Reaching out and putting her hand on his shoulder) I didn't think it was the right time, especially since it was the first time you would be meeting Zara.
Zach (smiling, she was trying so hard which was more than he could say for a lot of people): I'm not a kid Aunt Claire…
Claire (piping up): No you're growing into a very handsome young man and you're very smart.
Zach (smiling): So back to Zara (not giving up) she's what to you Aunt Claire (seeing the bright smile) she's (motioning) come on you run a huge theme park and you can't tell your nephew about the nice woman you're obviously dating (teasing.)
Claire (grinning, shaking her head): You're like your mother when you do that. Insistent, won't let up until I answer her question (he smiled at her) and yes back to Zara, we're very good friends (an eye roll, enjoying teasing him) and yes we're together, partners, she's my girlfriend (he rolled his eyes) she's my everything Zach and one day I hope you find that, I hope you find your special someone. (Realizing he was sixteen) not though, not now, not until you graduate high school and…
Zach (reaching out): I get it Aunt Claire, I get it, I've got a girlfriend now and she's just clingy as ugh. (He watched her) you need to work on that (chuckling) I mean you need to say what she is to you and not stumble all the way through it. I bet she could do better (laughing as she cuffed him on the shoulder.)
Claire (tentatively): She could, she's better at a lot of things than I am (reaching for him) come here (wrapping her arms around him) don't change don't ever change. The world needs more people like you, who will listen and not judge.
Zach (finding himself engulfed in deceptively strong arms, inhaling the scent of her perfume, he remembered when he was younger and the few times she would come and visit he always remembered how her hugs felt, tight, warm, almost bone crushing. He returned the hug, feeling better about the talk and getting to know his aunt despite the years and miles between them.)
Claire (thinking back to the last time she had been in Wisconsin, even when Zach was younger he always reached for): I thank you….
Zach (releasing her): We won't talk about this, right (rubbing the back of his head.)
Claire (biting her lip): I don't know what you're talking about I uh tripped and had to lean on you. Yeah it's cool (laughing) no one's ever to old for that for a hug, needing someone (smiling.) Except of course you know boundaries and inappropriate unwelcome touching…
Zach (wide eyed): Aunt Claire um we are not having that conversation (shaking his head.)
Claire (concern): You have had that conversation though right, I mean…
Zach (rolling his eyes): Yes and we're, I mean, I've uh it's cool.
Claire (stifling her laughter): No, no then we're good right.
Zach (grinning): Yeah thanks Aunt Claire. (Thinking) wait you're going to tell Zara about this?
Claire (questioning): Parts of the conversation yes, we're very honest with each other, and because through me she's come to care about you and Gray.
Zach (nervously): I mean motioning…
Claire (rolling her eyes): Really you're worried that I'll tell her something and it'll blow your cool (laughing and watching him squirm) Zach it's nothing to be embarrassed about. (She had him now) besides when you leave Sunday she might give you a hug and she's a lot stronger than I am (laughing.)
Zach (smiling)): Thanks, Aunt Claire um (rubbing the back of his neck) um yeah.
Claire (shaking her head): We're cool right, everything's good.
Zach (nodding): Yeah we're great, we're (wondering) actually tomorrow can we make it 830 instead of 800, please.
Claire (wanting to check on Gray): Yeah 830 is good, we can do 830 (opening the door.)
Zach (under his breath, teasing): Give you a chance to spend time with Zara before your day starts.
Claire (wide eyed): Zach (he grinned at her) and this is between us, please for now. I'll talk with your mother and let her know that there is…
Zach (smiling): You have someone special in your life. You need to work on well words, and besides she already knows (his aunt blushed.)
Claire (deep breath): Zach (he shrugged) ok, ok I'll uh this should be oh boy. (Watching Gray for a moment) speaking of your mother call her tonight, like you said you would. And talk to her, really talk to her, please.
Zach (seeing Gray was already in bed watching cartoons): Aunt Claire (exasperated.)
Gray (sitting up): You're leaving Aunt Claire (he was a little nervous about being here and not in his own room back at home. What did his dad say oh yeah toughen up well he didn't feel like it at that moment.)
Zach (reassuring): Relax we'll have a boys night in Gray, watch old cartoons, chips, soda we'll have a lot of fun. After we call mom, how's that sound?
Gray (liking the idea): Yeah (he glanced to Zach for a moment then to his aunt who was coming over to his bed.)
Claire (moving over to the bed and sitting down on it): I'm going to go back my apartment now, I'm going to bed early too (Zach's laughter) because we've got a busy day tomorrow. You can call me anytime if you need to and I'll be right over.
Gray (sitting up and hugging her): I'll be fine like Zach said we're having a night in. Thank you Aunt Claire, you're the best and if you talk to Zara (another laugh) Zach's acting weird isn't he?
Claire (stifling her own laughter): He's just being silly because he's over tired (hearing water running in the bathroom.) Speaking of it's time for bed for you.
Gray (finishing): When you talk to Zara tell her I said thank you (laying back down.)
Claire (tucking the blanket around him): I'll make sure and tell her. Goodnight Gray (standing and meeting Zach coming out of the bathroom) I think you're overtired (winking.) If you need me….
Zach (laughing): We'll be fine.
Claire (patting him on the shoulder): I mean it, anything, call me.
Zach (reminding her): 830 right (she nodded) good night and tell Zara thank you from me too.
Claire (smiled and walked out into the hallway, waiting for the door to shut before going to the elevator, pausing then decided on the stairs instead, her phone beeped and she pulled it out of her purse and nearly tripped on the next step. Zara had sent her an image of herself in her robe, which left little to the imagination, sprawled in a lounge chair on the balcony and below the picture take your time I'll be waiting for you): That little she devil (grinning.)
Raptor Paddock
Hoskins (leaned back in his chair, going through his files on the computer): Pachycephalosaurus, Corythosaurus, Anklyosaurus, Triceratops ah here you Stegosaurus, we'll add your paddock to our list and then move onto bigger things (chuckling, listening as footsteps entered the hallway. Saving his file and shutting off the computer, he picked up the reports he was reading as Owen Grady walked in.) You're supposed to knock, ask for permission to come aboard, proper protocol.
Owen (wanting to leave for the night): We're not on a dam naval vessel and this is not a military operation. I'm heading out for the night, the girls are set I'll see you in the morning.
Hoskins (not liking Owen Grady or his attitude): I'm the supervisor for In Gen and the dinosaurs, so a little respect for your supervisor.
Owen (pursing his lips): Actually I report to Masrani Global, and that would be Mr Masrani or Ms Dearing, You're part of In Gen as you said, I'm not (agitated) so again good night Hoskins.
Hoskins (angrily): After today (catching himself) well it doesn't matter anyway.
Owen stopped in his tracks wondering just what the fuck that meant. He wanted to leave, tomorrow he would talk with Barry about that statement. Checking around to make sure everything was locked and tied up for the night, he started his motorcycle and headed to his bungalow for a cold beer, a view of the night sky and rumblings of the dinosaurs in the background, little did he know it would be his last night on the island.