Chapter 65

Lila The door to the lab creaked open as Emily and I stepped inside, the faint, clinical scent of antiseptic greeting us like an old, unwelcome acquaintance. The bright fluorescents overhead hummed softly, casting a cold, sterile light over the pristine counters and neatly arranged equipment. It was like stepping into a different world—one where order reigned supreme, unlike the chaos my personal life had become. Emily let out a low whistle, her sharp green eyes scanning the room with a kind of reverence. “Still spotless,” she murmured, setting her bag down on one of the stools. “Honestly, it’s creepy how they manage to keep it looking like no one works here.” I snorted, dropping my own bag beside hers. “You know that’s what makes this place so perfect. No judgments. No questions. Just science and peace. And no one cares if I wear the same hoodie for three days straight.” She arched a perfectly plucked brow and smirked. “Correction: you don’t care. I, however, would be crucified for da