First 5 Chapters The Vaccine | Mysite Author Layne Hone The Vaccine

THE VACCINE

LAYNE F. HONE

I dedicated this book to my wife, Colette Hone. She is my inspiration.

All rights reserved, including the right to reproduce this book or portions thereof in any form whatsoever. This is a work of fiction. Any resemblance to actual events or real persons (living or dead), is purely coincidental. The majority of locations described within this work of fiction actually exist within Utah.

ISBN: 9781791964528

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

My heart is filled with gratitude towards the following individuals who have assisted me in my journey, writing this book;

My Family, Colette, Lauren, Matthew, Tyler, Aubri, and Taya. They are the best cheerleaders an author could have. Aubri made a great cover model.

Sean Truman

For not holding back and telling me how he really felt about the first several chapters.

Edward Orellana

For his encouragement and strategic and tactical suggestions.

Paula Johnson

For vocalizing her likes and dislikes about my story.

Sheri Hone

All the time we talked and discussed plot, story, and characters.

Lee Allred

For guiding and encouraging me to do self-publishing.

Gaige Redd

For making a great book cover picture, using a picture of my daughter, Aubri. He created exactly what I had envisioned with the colors and textures.

CHAPTER 1

Storm clouds sat low in the morning sky. The wind dragged them across the mountains, leaving trails of gray mists behind. A large parking lot at the Utah State Prison was almost empty except near the main entrance with only a few cars and an old pickup truck.

An ominous guard tower sat to one side of a sandy colored on the building. The stucco was faded in many places due to its exposure to elements. A single entry door shrouded by a thick, concrete wall, was the only access inside. The endless rows of chain link fences and razor wire came up around the building but stopped at the tower. The windows on the tower and the building were blackened, denying anyone to see who may be watching.

Dr. Anthony Mills sat behind the wheel of his BMW. He touched the screen on the dashboard, and a Johnny Cash song began to play. It didn’t matter which song he chose, as long as it was Johnny Cash. Anthony squinted to see the time on the BMW’s screen. He shook his head in disgust. Late again. Dr. Mills opened the driver’s side door and stepped out of his silver BMW. Decaying leaves whipped past his feet. His body shivered as the frigid wind whipped around him, feeling like it was piercing to his bones. Fall had come early. Dr. Mills hated the colder weather. He fantasized about his next assignment to be in a warmer climate.

His brown pinstripe suit was too thin for the frigid air. He felt his jaw shutter, and his teeth clacking together only a couple of times. Leaving the driver’s door open, he yanked open the back door, removed his suit coat, and tossed it in the back seat. The wind pressed his white shirt tightly around his chiseled torso, shoulders, and arms. Each muscle seemed to be pushing through his white shirt with each movement. He retrieved a soft black leather coat from the back seat and quickly put it on and zipped it up, sealing out the chilly air. He ran his fingers back through his long wavy brown hair that stopped above his shoulders, trying to straighten it against the wind. He pulled on the hood and tucked the rest of his hair behind his ears. Some of his hair remained clung to the stubble on his face.

“Annoying wind!”

A high pitched squeal, like the sound your car makes when the serpentine belt needs to be tightened, could be heard in the distance. A gray car with two missing hubcaps and no passenger side mirror, came racing towards the prison. Dr. Mills glanced at his watch. The gray car’s tires screeched to a halt a couple of stalls away from Anthony’s BMW. He could hear the ratchet of an emergency brake being set. Yet, the parking lot was completely flat. Troy Backus jumped out of the gray car and slammed the driver’s door hard. He was a thin young man wearing a yellow beanie on his head. His black hair shot out from under the edges of the beanie. His large brown plaid coat looked one or two sizes too big.

“You beat me here, Tony,” Troy exclaimed, walking over to Dr. Mills as he slung a black backpack over his shoulders. Troy stopped too close to Dr. Mills making him take a step back.

“Well, that horrible sound that’s created by your car beat me here. So I guess you won. Although, I didn’t know it was a competition in getting to work. It’s your job to be on time.” Dr. Mills pointed out.

Troy remained quiet. Dr. Mills closed both doors on his car and opened up the trunk. He retrieved a small bag and a large black rectangular, metallic case with a thick shoulder strap. There was thin, green LED light ring around the top half of the metallic case. The light slowly pulsed like a heartbeat. He slung the case over one shoulder. The padded strap pressed deep into the leather of his coat. He tugged on the shoulder strap of the small bag and the metal case as he closed the trunk, to keep the metal case from hitting his BMW.

“I’ve also told you several times to address me as Dr. Mills. You’re a hard worker Troy. Talented. Very talented. It would be a shame to fire you.” He threatened. Both men strode towards the prison as the wind whistled past them.

“I promise this time is the last time I will be late T—Dr. Mills. No more using your first name.” Troy said crossing his heart.

“Really? Was that necessary?”

“What?”

“Why haven’t you purchased a new car?” Dr. Mills inquired, pulling the shoulder strap of the backpack higher on his shoulder.

“I pay you enough. You could easily get some kind of an upgrade from your piece-of-crap.” Dr. Mills said as both of them drew closer to the entrance.

“I’m helping my sister get through Hair College. She helped me to pay for school, now it’s time to return the favor.”

“Oh, how kind.” Dr. Mills teased.

“She’s doing well.”

“I’m sure you could get a nicer car?” Dr. Mills huffed. Troy remained silent.

“I’m not sure I can do this.” Troy blurted out, slowing his pace.

Dr. Mills stopped and turned to face Troy. The cold wind nearly blew off his hood.

“Well, now’s not to the time to tell me. You eagerly volunteered!” Dr. Mills barked.

“I just –.”

“You’re here now, and you’re going to do what you agreed. Don’t be a pansy! Will your sister need to postpone Hair College?”

Troy forced his feet to shuffle towards the prison. He didn’t want to let his sister down, yet the idea of sleeping behind bars for a week, voluntarily, was easier said than done.

Troy was trying to calm his imagination and not thinking of all that could happen behind the tall chain link fence. How could he focus on his job? Troy thought. He could hear Dr. Mills murmuring under his breath, despite the blowing wind.

“Pick up the pace! I’m freezing!” Dr. Mills snapped.

Troy hastened his pace, although he still lagged a few feet behind Anthony.

As they approached the entrance to the prison, a security guard met them at the door and escorted them inside. He towered over both Troy and Anthony. The guard was a good head and shoulder taller than Dr. Mills and had broad shoulders.

The guard wore a navy colored shirt with a shiny brass badge over the left pocket, navy pants, which looked like a military design. His pants were tucked into his black boots. His massive body was shaped like an apple. His black utility belt was at the last notch trying to hold back his round belly. Yet, his legs were long and slender. His dark blue knitted cap was pulled down over his ears covering his bald head since no hair could be seen around the edges. His uniform was neatly pressed with pressed creases on his sleeves and under the two chest pockets.

A waiting area with an X-ray machine, where the guards would scan items to be sure they were safe, was about 12 feet from the door. It was like time had stood still since the prison was first built. The paint on the walls looked thick with coat after coat of white paint. There may have been décor update in the ’70s, but that’s as far as the update went. A small bank of chairs made of orange plastic ran along one of the walls. Each of them shared the same feet and leg supports, much like the seating in an airport. There was a metal detector next to a small conveyer belt to the X-ray machine.

Dr. Mills walked over to the orange chairs and set the large black metal case down and rubbed his shoulder. The black case didn’t sit quite right in the plastic chairs, so he moved it so it wouldn’t slide off the chairs

“I’m Officer Rogerson. What’s your business here at the prison? Today is not a Visiting Day. Children’s visiting day is on Thursdays” He said coldly.

“You can see that I’m not a child. I have my Ph. D. from the University of Utah in Chemistry and Biology, and I’ve finished my Masters in Molecular Biology” Troy boasted.

“Could’ve fooled me!” Rogerson laughed.

“Besides, all that means nothing to me. And it means even less to the hardened criminals in here. To them, you’re going to be fresh meat.”

“Where’s Officer Avery? You didn’t eat him did you?” Dr. Mills asked.

“Was that supposed to be a joke? It sucked. How do you know Officer Avery? Is your business with Officer Avery?” Rogerson questioned.

“No. Officer Avery was assigned to this station for the past six months as I’ve been coming here to the prison to conduct our clinical trial on a new vaccine” Dr. Mills replied, sensing the harsh tone in Rogerson’s voice.

“Officer Avery was rotated to the Control Room yesterday.”

“Okay. Well, I’m Dr. Anthony Mills from Holbech and Mills Pharmaceutical.” He said warmly. “We --”

“It’s not a Visiting Day! You’re not on my list so you can go home now.” Rogerson growled, looking up from his clipboard. “Besides, I think your little brother is going to pass out. You’d better sit down before you fall down, son.” Rogerson barked at Troy.

Troy started hyperventilating, and all the color drained from his face. Dr. Mills turned his attention to Troy and helped him sit in another bank of chairs, next to the security wall. He removed Troy’s knitted cap and unbuttoned his coat. Dr. Mills knelt down and looked into Troy’s eyes.

“You need to calm down.”

Troy nodded once.

“I want you to think of your sister and how you’re helping her get through school. Everything will be okay. I need your help.” Dr. Mills reassured him.

Troy slowed his breathing.

“Good. Take off your coat. It will be okay.”

Dr. Mills stood back up, removed his leather jacket and set it in a chair next to Troy.

“Could you please call Nick Spencer? The Warden.” Dr. Mills requested.

CHAPTER 2

“Karen!” Rogerson shouted. “Have these two gentlemen been coming to the prison to conduct clinical trials?” Office Karen sat on a tall chair at the monitor of the X-Ray machine. His biceps were huge, stretching the fabric of the sleeves of his uniform. He was fitter than officer Rogerson but shorter. He was on the phone and held up his hand like a traffic cop telling cars to halt, signaling Rogerson to wait until he finished the phone call.

“We’re conducting a clinical research study in the Security Threat Group.” Dr. Mills smiled. “I have my authorization with me.”

“Set your luggage on the table so we can scan them!” Officer Rogerson ordered. “Nothing is coming into this prison without being scanned. NO Exceptions!” Rogerson’s bellowing voice becoming louder.

“This black case contains the vials of serum and cannot be scanned by an X-ray machine.” Dr. Mills insisted.

“Then it won’t be going into the prison until we inspect it!”

“If you could please CALL the Warden. I assure you that there’s only serum in this case, along with all of our iPads to collect the data and some medical equipment, which the prison doesn’t carry in your infirmary. I won’t reach into the bag until the Warden gets here. Agreed?” Dr. Mills pleaded, holding up his hands.

Officer Rogerson instinctively retrieved his expandable baton from his belt and moved towards Dr. Mills.

“You will put the smaller bag on the conveyer belt so Officer Karen can scan it. Then you can show me the authorization.” He stated urgently.

“He’s still on the phone. Can we wait until he’s off the phone? He’s been here with Officer Avery. He could vouch for me too.” Dr. Mills implored to the hasty guard.

Officer Karen could hear both Officer Rogerson and Dr. Mills’ conversation. He forcefully held up his hand again and mouthed, hang on! Both men paused and waited for Officer Karen to hang up the phone. For Troy, the minutes passed like hours.

“You two are as patient as a burning house!” Karen said, slamming down the phone. “That was the Warden’s secretary. The Warden is talking to the Lt. Governor on the phone and will be here when he’s done. Dr. Mills, Warden Spencer asked you to wait until he comes down.”

“Sure. I’d be glad to.” Dr. Mills replied.

“You could’ve said something, Karen.” Rogerson protested.

“I was talking to the Warden and his secretary at the same time!” Karen exclaimed.

“Troy remember to breathe.” Dr. Mills said without looking at him.

“Does your friend know where he is? I think he might wet his pants.” Rogerson laughed.

“Was that a joke?” Dr. Mills scoffed.

“I was not. I wasn’t. No wetting!” Troy blurted out.

The four men sat silently waiting for the Warden. The heated air from the ducts hissed past the vents in the ceiling, into the room. It was the only constant sound breaking the silence. There was the occasional squeak of the leather belts or the jingle of keys from the guards. Rogerson kept his baton firmly in his hand while glaring at both Dr. Mills and Troy, trying to anticipate any possible scenario where he might have to react quickly.

Dr. Mills could feel Rogerson’s glaring eyes as he set down in a hard plastic chair. He tried to ignore Officer Rogerson. He was fuming about the whole situation. Why didn’t the Warden inform the guards of his arrival, if they were changing posts? Was the vaccine being kept cold? Were the batteries adequate or almost depleted? Time passed, and the green LED started to blink a little faster.

“Would either of you like some water?” Officer Karen asked. Officer Rogerson gave Officer Karen a dirty look.

“We’re okay. Thanks.”

“Is today when you’ll be giving the vaccine?” Officer Karen inquired softly.

“Yes. It’ll be a historic day. We’ll be one step closer to total domination – of the influenza virus.” Dr. Mills stated. Both guards look at each other with puzzled looks, wondering about the Doctor’s meaning of domination.

We’ve gathered the medical history, from each inmate. All necessary for our data records.” Dr. Mills said confidently.

“Is the serum clear or colored, like in the movies?” Officer Karen wondered out loud.

“It’s a purple colored serum.” Dr. Mills replied.

“Wow. Can you show it to us?” Officer Karen begged.

“Sorry. It must be kept cold in the case until I can get it to the cooling unit in your infirmary.” Dr. Mills said looking at Officer Rogerson. Rogerson retained his poker face.

“You’re welcome to come down to the infirmary to see it later when you get off.”

“That would be cool. Thanks!”

“My pleasure.”

“You can come too, Officer Rogerson if you’d like.” Dr. Mills added.

“We’ll see.” Officer Rogerson replied.

Officer Karen noticed the Warden on one of the small screens walking down the hall to the inner security door. He pushed a yellow button on the safety console, and the locking mechanism made a buzzing noise, and the door began to slide open. The Warden waited for the door to fully open before walking through. As soon as the Warden passed through the door opening, Officer Karen closed the door. It slowly slid closed, yet it banged hard into the door jamb, with a few clicking noises securing the lock.

Both officers instinctively stood to attention as the Warden entered the room but quickly resumed what they’d been doing before the Warden came in. Warden Nick Spencer’s dark, blue suit was the same color as the guard’s uniforms. The button on the Warden’s suit jacket seemed to strain to try to cover the Warden’s small, pot belly. His tie was a bright blue with small yellow and black, angle stripes; all the same colors in the Utah State Corrections patch on each of the officers’ uniforms. His tiepin was a tiny version of the Utah State Corrections patch and was located precisely in the center of his tie.

The Warden’s hair was thick, gray and well-trimmed. He slicked his hair back, and it looked almost like plastic. Some of the guards even gave him the nicknamed of ‘old Ken,' because his hair looked utterly frozen in time like the hair on the Ken Doll. He acknowledged the nickname and even took a little pride in it. However, he didn’t let on to any of the guards of his amusement of the nickname and chastised anyone whom he heard say it.

The Warden walked through the wrong way of the metal detector, and the detector sounded, and the red lights lit up, but he ignored it.

“Dr. Mills, sorry for the delay. I meant to inform the entrance gate staff of your arrival today, but it slipped my mind.”

“I’m so glad that you answered your phone Warden, so I didn’t have to demonstrate to Officer Rogerson how to properly use his baton.” Dr. Mills said glancing at Officer Rogerson.

“I’d be happy to meet you in the guard’s gym, during your stay at our beautiful facility, for my lesson.” Officer Rogerson said, putting his baton back into its holster.

“It’s a date then. I prefer blondes, but I’ll make an exception for you.” Dr. Mills taunted the large man.

“In Officer Rogerson’s defense of how you were treated this morning,” The Warden began, clasping his hand together in front of him. “We have rules, and those rules MUST be followed to the letter. For your safety and the safety of my guards. They risk their lives each day. We house some of the nastiest, hardened criminals in our state. I’m also relieved you did NOT show Officer Rogerson how to use his baton here. You wouldn’t want an assault charge to impede your human clinical trials time-frame. However, the guard’s gym is the perfect place to demonstrate both of your abilities. I’m sure that you’ll both show restraint?” The Warden instructed.

Both men nodded.

“Great! Officer Karen, will you keep me informed of the Date, for these two?”

“My pleasure, Warden.”

“I’ve been talking with our Lt. Governor about the potential benefits of your breakthrough vaccine.” The Warden said.

“We’re confident in our influenza vaccine and all its benefits.” Dr. Mills stated proudly. Office Karen looked at Dr. Mills wondering what he meant with a slight audible emphasis to ‘All’ the benefits.

“Who’s your silent partner?” The Warden chuckled.

“This is Troy Backus. He’s my research assistant. He’s terrified about sleeping in prison. You could fingerprint him while he’s here.” Dr. Mills smiled.

Troy shook his head back and forth.

“I haven’t done anything. I promise.” Troy replied while crossing his heart with his right hand.

“Troy? You need to relax. You’ll be safe. We’ve set up a secure, separate sleeping area in the infirmary.” The Warden said, putting his hand out. Troy shook the Warden’s hand, and the Warden pulled Troy to his feet.

“I have a busy schedule today, so we need to get you both to the infirmary.

Troy and Dr. Mills put their personal bags on the conveyor to be X-rayed, and they made their way to the infirmary through several doors of thick steel and bulletproof glass. The doors slid open and closed much like the inner door at the entrance of the prison. Prison guards met them at each entry, and those guards escorted them to the next door, only to stay behind as the new guards accompanied them on their journey.

With each door closing, Troy had to fight the urge to start crying or yelling out. The smell he encountered inside the prison made him almost vomit. The need to inhale the foul air chased away the call to cry out. Besides, Troy didn’t want to show any of the inmates that he was terrified out of his mind. He felt like he was going deeper into a labyrinth, of which there was no escape.

Troy focused on the Warden and gripped the straps on his backpack tightly. He tried not to listen to some of the vulgar and coarse comments made from some inmates. Troy felt safe walking next to guards. Some had arm muscles as big as his leg. Yet, so did some of the prisoners. He didn’t look at anyone in the eye, hoping not to make anyone angry at him for something that they might have thought he did to them.

The Warden and Dr. Mills were conversing with each other, but Troy couldn’t hear them nor did he care to listen to them. He just focused on the back of the Warden’s head, praying to get to the infirmary.

“How are you doing back there, Troy?” The Warden said over his shoulder.

“Good. How much farther?” Troy replied, trying not to inhale.

“Getting close.”

The Security Threat Group was where the gang-bangers were housed. In the months before this day, Dr. Mills had worked long hours in getting all the inmates to sign waivers and agree to the payment terms to them or their families for participating in the clinical trial.

A white steel door opened to reveal the infirmary. Relief washed away some of Troy’s anxieties. He began to take deeper breaths. A clean, disinfected smell emulated from the infirmary.

“You’ve finally made it Troy. Are you going to be okay?” The Warden chuckled.

“I think…I just might be,”

The Warden and Dr. Mills were still talking about the vaccine and its potential for enormous cost savings to the prison systems across the State as well as the whole country. Two more guards quickly stood to attention and returned to their duties as the Warden came into the hospital.

The infirmary had several beds that sat perpendicular from the walls. The beds had white painted frames. Yet, the paint was scraped and wore away in many places, showing the raw, rusted metal. Most of the beds were empty with a single, vinyl coated mattress sitting on the bed springs.

Three prisoners were laying securely in the beds. Two of the prisoners were unconscious with several bandages covering their arms and heads. One of the unconscious prisoners, a Hispanic man, had a cast on his left arm. Each of the unconscious prisoners had three different medication dripping into IV lines. Troy lingered for only a few moments, wondering about the circumstances of those inmates’.

“Hey, little boy. Would you like me to read you a story?” A soft, smooth voice called behind him. Troy spun around to see an older man lying in one of the beds. The sheets were pulled to the inmate’s chest. His light, gray, wrinkled hospital gown disappeared under the prisoner’s double chin, and his body almost consumed the whole bed. Most of the hair on his head was gone, showing his shiny balding head and several scars and scabs. The remaining hair looked gray, greasy, and was secured in a ponytail. The inmate’s wrists were secured to the side bed rails with metal and leather restraints.

“I told you that you weren’t allowed to talk, Tim. Do I have to gag you!?” Officer Vasil threatened, standing up from his seated station next to one of the bandaged inmates. He was a huge man. His blonde hair was pulled back into a ponytail. A tattoo on his massive bicep disappeared under the sleeve of his uniform. Troy guessed Officer Vasil was 6’-6” in height. He didn’t see the guard as he walked into the infirmary. It must be a prerequisite to being able to lift a truck and carry it around to be a guard here at the prison, Troy thought.

“No gag is necessary, Officer Vasil,” Tim replied. Tim mouthed, we’ll talk later, to Troy.

Troy’s body shuttered.

“You just won’t learn, Tim!? There will be no later. Gagged at Lights out.” Officer Vasil vowed.

“What if I vomit or start choking?”

“Oh, I’m sure Sara will try to save you. If, she’s here.” Officer Vasil bellowed.

“And in the off chance that no one is here to save you, then justice will be served for six little boys.”

“Not six. Just one conviction.” Tim smiled.

“One too many. It’s a shame that inmate Leavitt was only able to get a couple of stabs at you with his shank. He stabbed you too soon. If he’d waited a few more minutes, the patrol would’ve been out of the common area, and you would be dead.”

“Are you getting excited in thinking about my demise? Exciting!” Tim taunted.

“A Hannibal Lector you are not! You’re not even human. Hey, you with the backpack!” Officer Vasil thundered. “Stay away from Tim if you don’t want to end up being victim number seven.”

“Yes, Sir.” Troy saluted and strode away.

“Bye, my new friend.” Tim mused, waving at Troy. Officer Vasil glared at Tim and sat back down.

“Pleasantries first, Officer Vasil.”

Tim gave a sly smile.

Officer Vasil jumped up and grabbed the gag bag from the nurse’s station. He whisked over to Tim and pressed the gag in Tim’s mouth and secure the bag over Tim’s head and waltzed back to his station.

“Glad you could join us. I see you have a new friend.” Dr. Mills snickered.

“Nope.”

“I need to get the serum cooled down.” Dr. Mills said as hurried to the back of the infirmary. A thick, black metal base rested on one of the counters at the rear of the infirmary. Dr. Mills set the case into the cooling station and a long, thin green light, illuminated around its top edge. He grabbed two cords that were hanging on two small hooks, next to the station, and inserted each cable into each end of the black case. A second thin green light on the top edge of the case lit up, matching the light on the cradle. Dr. Mills opened a small laptop attached to the cooling station, entered his passcode by touching the screen. He made some adjustments, keeping the serum at the proper temperature. They had taken too much time getting the infirmary. The temperature in the case had risen only 0.14 degrees, but it was at the limit to where the serum should have been stored. He gripped the edges of the computer screen tightly. His jaw tightened, and his blood pressure jumped. He wanted to shout, I told you that we needed to get to the infirmary as soon as we arrived at the prison, Warden! Don’t you know what I’m trying to do here! His mouth started to form the words, but he stopped and quickly relaxed and took a few cleansing breaths. No. No, you don’t. He thought. But you soon will.

CHAPTER 3

The Warden put his hand on Troy’s shoulder and looked him straight in eyes, “Troy. Don’t get near the inmates here in prison. Keep your distance.” The Warden warned.

“Or they’ll kill me?” Troy inquired.

“Always stay within arm’s length of the prison guards, if you need to leave the infirmary. I’m guessing you won’t, but just in case.”

“Don’t worry, he won’t!” Dr. Milles shouted.

“To the inmates, you’re fresh meat. They’ll take advantage of any lapse in judgment and exploit it, at tiger-like speeds. Sometimes death comes at the end of what they do to you.” The Warden said pointing to the two unconscious and bandaged inmates. “If not, you have to live with the outcome.”

“Okay,” Troy said, his voice trembled.

The security door clicked and began to slide open, causing Troy to jump. Tim eyed Troy’s reaction. Before the door was fully open, a nurse, with light green scrubs, squeezed through the doorway. Her auburn hair sat comfortably on her shoulders, and her green eyes complimented her scrubs. A stethoscope hung around her neck. Her running shoes made a short, squeaking sound as she walked on the polished concrete floor. The nurse rolled her eyes as she looked at the group of men near the nurse’s station and her pace slowed.

Dr. Mills saw the nurse out of the corner of his eye. He stopped setting up his equipment as he was talking to the Warden and ran his fingers through his hair.

“I don’t think Sara is your type.” Warden Spencer whispered to Dr. Mills.

He ignored the Warden’s comment.

“You’re Sara, aren’t you?” Troy thought out loud.

“That’s correct. Dr. Pig must have told you lies about how we mated like caged chimpanzees at night and worked tirelessly during the day.” Sara scoffed.

“Well, no.” Troy’s cheeks flushed red. “He told me that a beautiful nurse was working here in the infirmary.”

“You’re a terrible liar! You surely don’t have to stick up for this pig, just because he signs your paycheck.” Sara snapped.

“Sara. I know I was an obnoxious jerk the last time I was here. I hope you can accept my sincere apology. I misbehaved toward you as a woman, a professional, and as a colleague.” Dr. Mills apologized.

“Actions speak louder than words.” Sara scoffed. “We will see how truly sorry you are! Pig. That apology was empty, and it sounded rehearsed.”

“Sara!” The Warden interjected.

“He’s a pig, Warden. That’s the truth.”

Dr. Mill’s and The Warden’s eyes met. The Warden shook his head wondering who he was working with. He pondered repercussions of how he could back out on the deal. Yet, the money was anchoring the Warden’s decision. He’d spent and sheltered more than half of his first installment. The Warden’s eyes flashed with anger.

Dr. Mills nodded. He acknowledged his guilt about his actions towards Sara. He had played a dangerous game, and it may cost him with the Warden. Although, he knew the Warden wasn’t that smart and his ‘apology’ would allow him to finish the clinical testing of the vaccine.

“Warden? I request to be assigned to the infirmary for the duration of their stay. Everything will be just fine.” Office Vasil pledged, sitting at his station by one of the unconscious inmates.

“Permission granted.”

“Dr. Mills promised to me that he’d apologize to Sara when he came back to give the vaccines. He’s made good on his promise. Besides, IF he tries anything like that again, we can take his body to the morgue.” Officer Vasil promised.

“How did you…” The Warden asked.

“Dr. Mills was getting way too touchy-feely with Sara. I intervened. He has skills in the martial arts. Good skills, but I’m better. Much better. Rangers are badasses.” Officer Vasil bragged.

“You’re like fighting a large Oak tree, 6’-6” and more than 300 lbs.”

“Judge me by my size, do you?” Officer Vasil said in his best Yoda voice. Troy laughed.

“Why wasn’t I notified of your altercation!? Sara, why didn’t you report it!?” The Warden exclaimed.

“It was thrilling seeing Dr. Mills getting his ass kicked by Vasil.” Sara chuckled.

“No one reported the incident, at my request. I asked Officer Vasil not to say anything. I promised to apologize to Sara and stay six feet away from her at all times. I misbehaved. I’m here to perform my job with the help of everyone here.” Dr. Mills said.

“I run this prison! This is still unacceptable! We have rules! Rules that keep everyone safe for guards, staff, and inmates. I want daily reports emailed to me from each of you while Dr. Mills and Troy are here at the prison. Is that understood?” The Warden ordered.

Everyone nodded in agreeance.

The Warden looked at his watch, “I’m late. I have a meeting with the Lt. Governor to discuss the implementation of the vaccine to all of our jails. I hope I can consider this debacle resolved so I can focus my efforts on getting the funding.”

“I assure you that the vaccine is effective in eradicating the influenza virus. It will stand on its own merits, not my actions of trying to have a fantasy with a prison nurse.” Dr. Mills proclaimed.

“Uh huh.” Sara scoffed. To her, Dr. Mills spoke nothing but lies. She knew that there was something behind everything he said. She quickly went to the nurse’s station and sat down, fuming.

Dr. Mills took out his smartphone, opened a music app, and turned up the volume. The music resonated in the concrete and steel room.

“Let’s get to work and get everything set up for tomorrow.” Dr. Mills said.

“The Warden was pissed,” Troy said.

“I’m glad that’s over.” Dr. Mills whispered.

For the rest of the afternoon, Dr. Mills and Troy worked tirelessly setting up all of their equipment to administer the shots and track the inmate’s response. Troy moved some of the long, metal tables that were against the wall, under the barred windows, to an area near the nurse’s station.

Troy tried to ignore but with the infirmary wasn’t much bigger than a four-car garage. He felt empowered knowing that he could do his work. Besides, he could imagine Officer Vasil giving Tim a round-house kick to the other side of the infirmary, and that made him smile.

“Troy. You will have to get our computers synced with the servers at HMP. You understand that process much better than I do.” Dr. Mills said, pushing the laptop away.

“I’ll get the monitoring stations set up.”

“Sure. I’ll do it after I get the barcode readers calibrated.” Troy said.

“Why are we bar-coding each of the inmates? I already entered all their medical history. We just need to type in their name at each monitoring station screen.” Troy questioned.

“The barcodes allows for quicker sync with the Green Technicians back at the lab. We can track side effects by simply scanning the barcode on their wristband.”

“Who are the Green Techs, again?”

“Really Troy!? They are the group of scientists that I’ve worked with, these past several years, in creating the influenza vaccine and getting it ready for human trials. With the barcoding, they can ascertain and help identify any trouble or complications or reactions to the vaccine almost instantaneously.” Dr. Mills said.

Dr. Mills walked over to the eight plastic olive green crates sitting at the back of the infirmary. He had them delivered before he and Troy came to the prison. The containers were rounded at the edges with a white security band running from front to back, with a keypad lock on the front. The keypad had additional characters letter keys, A, B, C, and D at the bottom of the keypad. Dr. Mills entered a code, and the lock gave an audible chime. He pulled on the handles, located on the sides of the crates, and it opened like a clam on its side.

He took off a clear plastic covering to reveal the monitoring station. There was a leather chair with full padded armrests. The leather seats and backrest were a light gray with white metal supports. The whole station was on four wheels, allowing it to be easily moved around and the wheels could be locked, keeping the patient secure. He pulled a lever in the base of the station, below the seat and the back of the chair reclined at a 45-degree angle and another section, where the patient’s legs would rest, raised up at 45 degrees. He turned the touchscreen monitor, which was mounted to the side of the chair next to the left armrest and powered it on.

The black screen came alive and flashed the silver metallic-looking, HMP symbol of the mortar & pestle along with a display prompt for a password. His fingers danced across the screen as he entered his password. A few seconds later a pen looking object telescoped up from the top edge of the screen. Dr. Mills brought his right eye close to the raised object and held his head still. His retina was scanned, and the round eye reader lowered back into place.

Dr. Mills retrieved the I.V. pole from the inside of the sides of the crate. It was in three pieces, and he quickly clicked each section together and attached the pole to the station. There were a plethora of wires and leads coming from the bottom of the monitor. The blood pressure machine was mounted to the insides of the crate. He quickly removed it from the container and attached it to the station, next to the monitor.

“Sara. How’s the lab area setup coming?” Dr. Mills asked, over his shoulder.

“It’s all done. All I had to do was to plug in some of these machines and boot up a computer.” Sara replied.

“Great! Thank you.”

Sara ignored the Doctors gratitude. She could not let go of the uneasy feeling she had about Dr. Mills. She noticed that she was standing closer than the six feet, which he promised to be away from her. Yet, she had walked up to him. He was a handsome man. His wavy brown hair and fit body made him irresistible. However, Sara knew he was a chameleon, not to be trusted. She spun on her heels, heading back to the nurse’s station but paused at the lab equipment, admiring some of it wondering why such elaborate equipment was needed for the clinical study.

“Control to the infirmary.” A voice called over the radio.

“Infirmary. Vasil. Ready.”

“Paramedics have arrived to take the two injured inmates to the hospital. Are you ready for them?”

Officer Vasil looked over at Sara for confirmation. She nodded her head as she was filling out the paperwork for their transfer to the hospital.

“Control. We’re ready for the inmate transfer.” Officer Vasil replied.

The Control room buzzed two pairs of paramedic teams, with their stretchers, into the infirmary as Officer Vasil was assisting Sara in getting the unconscious inmates ready to be moved. Everyone exchanges pleasantries and then loaded the prisoners onto the stretchers. The paramedic left as fast as they came.

“Well, that was fun.” Dr. Mills joked.

“We get the inmates stable and transport them to the hospital for recovery. Our facilities are inadequate to handle those kinds’ of life-threatening injuries.”

“You’ll be getting an upgrade with this equipment.”

“Are you really going to leave all this stuff here when you’re done with your clinical trials? Even the ultrasound machine?” Sara asked in disbelief.

“Why not? Consider it an early, Merry Christmas!” Dr. Mills smiled as he continued assembling the monitor stations.

“Not really what I wanted for Christmas. I’m sure the inmates will just shout profanities and riot if I told them this is what you got them for Christmas.” Sara mumbled.

“Each of them and their families were handsomely compensated for participating in this study. If they riot or refuse to cooperate, they get nothing. Yet, I seriously doubt they would riot. I don’t think it would be part of their nature after the clinical trials are complete.” Dr. Mills bragged.

Sara rolled her eyes, “What do you know about criminals and how they think!? I’ve had to provide medical care for some horrible prisoners for more than 10 years, and they will bite the hand that’s trying to help them. They would stab you with a shiv because it’s Tuesday if it suited them. How can anyone be so confident about the actions of incarcerated gang-bangers, having never work around them, and know how they would react in any situation is beyond arrogance. It’s foolishness!”

“He has blinders on, Sara.” Officer Vasil said, looking up from his Field & Stream magazine. His old chair creaked as he shifted his weight.

“All he can see is the millions of dollars that he stands to make if the vaccine is approved by the FDA. Dr. Mills has convinced himself that he can visit the sewer for a short period and still come out smelling like a rose.”

“You give yourself too much credit by making an observation of the present facts, not knowing the whole story behind my actions, with the vaccine.” Dr. Mills protested. He stopped assembling the monitor stations, setting a screen on one of the seats.

“My brother died of influenza when he was 13 years old. He was completely healthy, and the complication from the virus changed everything. I made a promise to myself and my parents that someday I’d eradicate the world of this plague. Will I make millions? Sure. Will we save millions of dollars lost by a weak workforce? Absolutely! How much time and effort will be saved by a mother not having to be continually taking their kids to the doctor because her children keep bringing home illness from school?”

“This disease still kills people today! What would you do or what would you sacrifice to have a plague removed from our civilization?!” Dr. Mills exclaimed, slamming his fist on the counter. Sara jumped and stepped back.

Officer Vasil sprang up from his chair. His hand firmly on his nightstick, “I understand that you’re passionate about your vaccine and all you’ve accomplished, but we don’t act like that here in prison. It's best if you keep calm at all times. The inmates don’t need a reason to become violent. I’ve reminded you about this on your last visit.”

Troy tried to become invisible, sinking back into his chair and dragged the laptop closer to him. He didn’t want to be pulled into the argument. Troy felt uneasy. Tim? Troy tried to slowly turn his head towards the inmate. Tim’s eyes were closed, and yet Troy knew that Tim’s eyes weren’t fully closed. He was watching. Observing.

“Stand down, Officer Vasil. The only inmate here is restrained to his bed.” Dr. Mills pointed out.

Sara folded her arms and back toward the nurse’s station. Officer Vasil pulled his nightstick from the metal ring on his belt and slowly walked towards Dr. Mills.

“You honestly think that nightstick frightens me?” Dr. Mills hissed.

“I know it doesn’t. Yet, I know the guy holding it does frighten you. However, if I have to use it on you, it represents the proverbial stick that the Warden will beat you with, denying your clinical trials to continue here at the prison, despite what arrangement you’ve made.”

Dr. Mills squinted, his eyes flashed with anger.

“I’m sure that will set back your time schedule. Maybe even crippling your entire program.” Officer Vasil said. His deep voice seemed to resonate in the room of steel and concrete.

“Skillfully played. You’re a cool man under pressure. Even when it doesn’t benefit you.”

“You’re wrong,” he said shaking his head. “Keeping the peace inside these walls is my job. I benefit by getting to go home after my shift.”

Dr. Mills took a deep breath and focused his efforts on his job. He lined up all the Monitor Stations near the last bed. Sara stayed behind the counter in her chair, watching every move he made. She didn’t want to be surprised like the previous time.

“Troy, did you link up the barcode scanners? Troy!”

“Yes,” he responded popping his head above the laptop screen. “I told you before, you can’t keep entering codes and hoping it will link itself. It takes a while trying to remove all your entries.” Troy said, closing out a game on the laptop. “The software is ready and linked with our server at HMP.”

“That’s why I brought you.” Dr. Mills smiled

“Every superhero needs a sidekick. Details. Details.” Troy whispered.

“You can come over here and link up the scanners?”

“Technically, I can do it right here on the laptop. I was waiting until you had all the stations assembled,” Troy said.

“Fine, fine! Let’s get everything done! I know we only have about two hours until lights out,” Dr. Mills said, keeping his voice low. Glancing at Officer Vasil.

“I want these Monitor Stations up and running before we go to bed, so we can work out any surprises before we start giving shots in the morning.”

Troy shook his head in disbelief. He longed for the courage to tell Dr. Mills where-to-go sometimes, but he couldn’t form the words in his mouth. Troy hated himself for being such a pushover. Dr. Mills had treated him the same way since he first met in the lab at HMP.

Troy’s mind flashed back to the days when he started working at HMP in the Green Technician lab. He wanted to make such a good impression of his skills, but all Dr. Mills saw was someone he could manipulate in giving up birthdays, holidays, and all other free time, ‘for the sake of scientific discovery.' Now he felt trapped by a slave-driver and the promise he made his sister. It was a good thing she was his twin. Besides, he was the oldest, and he wanted to make sure his little sister, only by 2 minutes, received the education she wanted.

So many times Dr. Mills had such unrealistic expectations on the timeframe of specific tasks. He pushed the Green Technicians to the breaking point. Troy knew his tactics too well. Having Officer Vasil there gave Troy a bit of courage he’d not felt before.

“You didn’t update the scanners before they left HMP. Why?” Troy probed.

“No! We needed to get them delivered on schedule. The only reason we’re behind schedule is the imbeciles at the front desk.” Dr. Mills hissed.

“I work with those imbeciles. Mind – your – tongue.” Officer Vasil warned.

Dr. Mills rolled his eyes. Troy tried to keep a poker face but failed. Officer Vasil just folded his arms in disgust with Dr. Mills’ impetuousness.

“I’ll need you to hook them up to each station before I can complete the setup.” Troy stammered.

“You can’t do it?” Dr. Mills murmured.

“Well…I don’t have the necessary time.” Troy said, looking at his watch. “It’ll take approximately 40 minutes, each station, to perform the updates. Then, to perform a level 5 diagnostic on each machine. It will be Lights out…” Troy pointed out.

“Fine. I’ll install the brain scanners.”

“I’ll extend ‘lights out’ for you, Troy. The sooner I’m rid of your boss, the better.” Officer Vasil laughed.

Dr. Mills kept a reply to himself.

Troy grabbed his laptop and dashed over to the first monitoring station. He seized an orange cord, coming out of the bottom of the monitor, and plugged it into his laptop. His fingers dashed across the Laptop’s keyboard, gathering the necessary information from the HMP server.

Downloaded started.

Troy and Dr. Mills toiled frantically uploading the updated software and performing the diagnostics. Troy was starting to despise the ‘pestle and mortar’ icon on the monitor’s screen, as the computer downloaded the necessary files.

The infirmary was blanketed with an eerie quiet. Troy stared at the handcuffs, keeping Tim secure to his bed. He thought how wearing those handcuffs would be like in a mini-prison, inside this prison. Not being able to move while sleeping gave him the chills.

Troy could feel a few drops of sweat dripping down his back. Why was he so hot? Troy completely forgot he was wearing his coat. He removed it and tossed on the chair behind him. Troy could feel the immediate temperature change on his back. He pulled on the front of his green hoodie a few times to vent some of the heat from his body.

He refocused his efforts to the monitor stations and not being lock up behind bars. He promised himself that he’d never break the law. He didn’t want to be locked up.

Troy glanced over at Dr. Mills, who seemed quite content in prison. He was drinking his coconut water, eating his rice cakes, and beef jerky. Those were his go-to-snacks. And if he forgot them, he’d send me out for them, no matter what I was doing. Sure glad he brought extra with him. Those metal bars weren’t intimidating to Dr. Mills. Maybe he had served time in prison or jail? Dr. Mills never really talked about his personal life, despite all the time he and Troy had worked on this portion of the vaccine.

Troy could hear a ticking sound coming from the wall clock hanging over the security door to the infirmary. The wall clock was covered with a metal basket. The annoying sound was the clock was dropping plastic beads on the concrete floor with each movement of the red, second hand. He’d not heard it when he first arrived in the infirmary. There was too much turmoil. Now, he wondered how he was supposed to sleep with that constant ticking sound.

Then he remembered that Trish, his sister, would always leave his headphones in a small slash pocket in his hoodie. He pressed his fingers against the hoodie’s fabric hoping to locate the headphones. Bingo!

He quickly retrieved the headphones, not bothering to zip up the small pocket, and pushed the earbuds into his ears. He pulled out his phone inserted the headphone jack and tapped the screen of his cell phone starting the music, not caring about the genre of music. The gloomy feeling of the infirmary was dispelled by each beat of the music. His mind and body soaked up each note and the music tried to persuade his eyes that he wasn’t in the prison infirmary.

Officer Vasil sat stewing about his decision in letting Troy and Dr. Mills break curfew. No one was allowed to break curfew. Period. His tried to conceal his emotion of his poor judgment by pretending to read his Field & Stream magazine. He’d already read the year-old magazine several times before.

Tim was at the center of Officer Vasil’s concern. It would be impossible to keep Tim quiet about breaking curfew. Besides, he used any rule-breaking to his advantage over the guards or inmates. He was a classic snitch. Maybe his masochistic behavior was the real reason he loved to snitch on anyone. Officer Vasil set down his magazine and strolled over the nurse’s station. Sara’s focus was on her computer screen charting the inmate’s information into the prison’s health database.

“Sara.” He whispered.

“Jeez! You scared me.” She gasped. “How can someone of your size move with such stealth?”

“Military training.”

“Sure.”

“Hey, what are you going to say in your report to the Warden?”

“That Dr. Mills is a Pig.” She snickered, still focused on her charting.

“Seriously. What are going to say?” Vasil inquired.

“Are you worried about Dr. Mills? What can he do?”

“I have no idea what kind of deal he and the Warden have cooked up in allowing this vaccine to be tried here, in prison. I know he’s hiding something about the vaccine. Even when the Doctor acts sincere, it seems rehearsed somehow. Fake emotions too.” he whispered, leaning closer to Sara.

“Maybe. Where’s your proof?” Sara questioned.

“I don’t have any. The proof’s in my gut. I can feel it.”

“Are you going to mention in your report about the curfew violation?” Sara asked.

“Do we have another option?” Officer Vasil said, looking back to Troy. He folded his arms, thinking.

“Tim will be the first one to squeal.”

“Don’t forget uber creepy.” Sara pointed out. “Sometimes I wish one of the inmates would finish him off.”

“It’s only a matter of time. Anyway, our reports need to be similar.” Office Vasil said.

“Sounds fine to me. Write your report first, so I can read it and make my report. I still have a lot of charting to do. Since we’ve been working together on the night shift. The only work getting done is each other. I so wish the infirmary was empty.” Sara winked at Officer Vasil.

“I know. It’s not been easy having Tim here.” Officer Vasil said quietly. “But we can’t give the slighted inclination that we have anything going on between us. I don’t trust Dr. Mills, and Troy does whatever he’s told. My record is impeccable. I don’t want it tarnished.” Officer Vasil stated.

“So, I’d be a mark on your record if the Warden found out about us?” Sara glared.

“That’s not what I meant, and you know it. You mean a lot to me, Sara” Office Vasil reassured Sara.

“Sorry. I know. I want that Pig gone.”

“We’ll bend a few rules and blame Dr. Mills.” Officer Vasil said, touching the back of Sara’s hand, still resting on the keyboard. “If the Warden let the offenses slide, we’ll know that there’s something shady about this whole deal.”

“So what if it’s a shady deal and has adverse effects on these inmates. Then what?” Sara snapped.

“They’re criminals, Sara.” Officer Vasil replied, turning to walk back to his small desk.

“Still human beings,” Sara whispered

Six stations were all lined up next to the small lab in the infirmary ready for their debut in the morning. Troy stood next to the last Monitor Station waiting for the last of the updates to upload. His music was a ray of sunshine.

“You made it in record time.” Officer Vasil sneered. “You’ve past lights-out by three hours. That has to be a record. I’ll have to include this in my report to the Warden.”

“Thank you. We’re just visitors. These type of concessions allow us to get our job completed, so we can leave and let you get back to guarding criminals.” Dr. Mills stated.

“Glad to hear you’re understanding of our hesitation about keeping the lights on, despite the rules. Just so you know, the Warden has zero tolerance for not following the rules.” Office Vasil stated.

“Well, we’re guests. I’m sure there’s some latitude.” Dr. Mills said smugly.

“On the contrary! A guest is most especially to adhere to the rules. Any guest who breaks the rules loses visiting privileges! I know the Warden reviewed prison rules with you before you began.” Officer Vasil reminded.

Dr. Mills disdain for this particular security officer burned inside of him like a road flare. But he sat there, saying nothing, glaring at Officer Vasil.

Officer Vasil strutted over to the light switches. He flicked each switch one by one. The bright infirmary was now dark except for 2 security lights, positioned on each end of the large room. One by the Nurse’s station, the other by the infirmary’s main door. There was one small lamp at the Nurses Station and another at the small desk where Officer Vasil sat.

CHAPTER 4

Moonlight shining through the small windows was sliced by the shape of the bars and left eerie shadows in the concrete floor. Just two beds sat in a separated cell within the walls of the infirmary. A small metal table sat in between the beds and was bolted to the floor. A tarnished, stainless steel toilet and sink unit were mounted on a short concrete wall, which faced away from the door to the cell.

Troy had taken his time in getting ready to go to bed. He tried to relax, but his mind was racing with too many, What If's. Sitting on the edge of an old infirmary bed, his back turned to the bed where Dr. Mill would sleep. He tried not to think of how many criminals had slept or died on this worn out mattress.

Dr. Mills strolled into the cell and closed the door. The lock clicked, locking the door. He tossed his bag on the old bed, but the old springs didn’t even spring back. He unzipped his bag and pulled out red UofU sweatpants and a hoodie.

“I hope you brought some warmer clothes to sleep in? The nights can get cold.” Dr. Mills said

“Yes, I remember. I brought an extra blanket. Wearing thick clothes to bed makes me feel claustrophobic.” Troy stammered.

“It’s going to be a long week for you isn’t it?”

“You do know where we are, right!?” Troy uttered.

“Duh? We’re in the Utah State prison infirmary.”

“Why didn’t you take Wes Sampson? He would’ve loved this kind of experience. He’s much better at running the Monitoring Stations.” Troy pouted.

“You are sorely mistaken about Wes.” Dr. Mills said as he got undressed for bed. “He loves his office too much. Apple fritters too. Oh, did I mention apple fritters? I’ve worked with Wes Sampson for over 20 years. He wouldn’t leave the comforts of his office. He loves his precious fritters too much.” Dr. Mills said, in his best Gollum voice.

Troy felt the walls close in, even though the bars were open. He could feel his breathing quicken. Panic started to wash over him. Office Vasil stood next to the bars near Troy’s bed. His dark blue uniform appeared black in the diminished light.

Troy gasped.

How could a man that big move so quickly and quietly? He fought back the urge to scream. Besides, he was a man, and that kind of behavior inside these walls could be his demise.

“Troy. My name is TC. You don’t need to refer to me as, Officer Vasil.”

Troy stared back trying to keep his mouth closed.

“Let me give you some advice. Just imagine these bars as your Force Field. They will keep you protected from the criminals within the walls of this prison and this infirmary.” TC said, pointed to Tim. “That image alone should give you some peace.”

“Thank you.”

Troy closed his eyes and imagined the bars glowing red, like laser beams ready to slice anyone who would try to get him.

“Everything will be fine now that you’ve been tucked in bed by Officer Vasil.” Dr. Mills said sarcastically.

“It’s TC,” Troy uttered.

“I’m not allowed to address the officers with their first names. They have such confining rules.” Dr. Mills said, using mocking jesters and contorting his face. “The Warden let it slide, but the Lt. Cribble was ready to have me put into a cell.”

“What did you do? Who’s Lt. Cribble?” Troy asked.

“It’s not important.” He snapped.

“Okay. Who’s Lt. Cribble?”

“He’s in charge of all the security officers. He won’t be here for the trials. He’s on vacation, getting a needed tan to go with his flattop haircut.” Dr. Mills said.

“I knew a Cribble once. In grade school.” Troy thought out load.

“Be thankful that T….Officer Vasil is here in the infirmary. If Lt. Cribble were here, you’d be sobbing, sucking your thumb, and no good to me.” Dr. Mills stated.

“That’s great.” Troy agreed. He chuckled to himself because Dr. Mills had couldn’t call the guards by their first names. Dr. Mills hated it. Just like he didn’t want Troy calling him Anthony or Tony?

“Look, Troy. I brought you here because of your advancements and creativity on the brain and body scanners on the Monitoring Stations. Your innovations spring-boarded these vaccine trials. Being able to track current happenings and changes in the body as the vaccine is introduced into the body was sheer genius!”

“It was pretty cool.” Troy gloated. “But I can’t take all the credit. Some of the Green Techs helped me out too.”

“Yes, they did. The Chairman of Board at HMP, Richard Wellington, personally asked me to make sure you were part of this stage of the vaccine trials. For only being with HMP for only 5 years and having the Chairman recommend you on a particular project really should boost your spirits.” Dr. Mills bragged.

Dr. Mills pulled off his suit pants, unbuttoned his dress shirt and tossed them over a chair next to his bed. He quickly pulled on his sweatpants and hoodie trying to trap in as much body heat as he could in the cold prison. He pulled on the hood cords, collapsing the hood around his face. Tucking in some of his hair as it protruded around his face.

“He really asked for me? Troy Backus?” Troy questioned, turning to look at Dr. Mills.

“Yep.”

“You usually take credit for my work.” Troy blurted out.

“Only on the stuff that I suggested.” Dr. Mills chuckled. “Besides, why shouldn’t you be here getting the credit you deserve. Your logins will be recorded on the scanners, and I have no problem in letting someone else bask in the limelight too.”

The old springs made some strange noises as Dr. Mills got into bed. He pulled up both prison blankets and brought them up to his chin. His body shuttered with the coldness of the bed and sheets.

The moonlight coming in through the windows brightened their cell area just enough that they could see each other’s faces. Working with Dr. Mills for over 5 years, Troy could read Anthony’s expressions perfectly. Not to mention, having a minor degree in Psychology did help.

Yet, he longed to say something, to call his boss out on the carpet, to tell the truth, but the desire was buried by a mountain of fear. Fear of his boss. Unknown repercussions. The anxiety was too much for him, so Troy remained entombed inside a mountain of doubt. He dreaded Anthony. He couldn’t quite put his finger on the feeling, but he was frightened for his life if he were to ever cross Anthony. The only victory Troy could muster was using Anthony’s first name in his mind. It kept his sanity in check and the fear at bay.

“Are you feeling okay? Maybe Sara needs to take your temperature? You never like to share the spotlight?” Troy said in disbelief, wondering where this generosity was coming from. “She’ not supposed to get that close, remember?”

“Right.”

“That’s not true. I publically acknowledged the changes that our CEO, Matt Parker, has made to HMP. And his how staff’s actions with the Cures Act made monumental strides in getting this vaccine ready for trials. I’m just a small cog in the machine.” Dr. Mills touted.

“Uh huh. Sure.”

“Let’s get some sleep. I…we need to make history tomorrow.” Dr. Mills grinned.

“Sounds like a plan.” Troy agreed.

Troy rolled over to his right side and pulled up his second blanket to his chin. As he was trying to find a comfortable spot on the crappy prison mattress, his eyes met Tim’s gaze. Troy noticed that Tim had turned his body and rolled towards Troy. He had not made a sound while wearing those bed restraints.

How did he do that? Maybe he purposefully made those sounds with the chains the whole time? Exhaustion was winning over the worry. Troy’s eyelids were heavy. He glanced around the thick metal bars that separated him from any danger. His force field was active. Tim couldn’t get him. Sleep was the victor.

CHAPTER 5

Two consecutive groups of high pitch beeps came from Officer Vasil’s radio. Officer Vasil marked his reading spot in a fishing magazine and reached for his radio.

“Infirmary. Vasil.” He responded, keeping his voice low.

“I need your nightly report.” The voice said over the radio.

“I sent it.” Officer Vasil replied.

“Not here. Check the email outbox.”

Officer Vasil looked over at Sara with a puzzled look. She was looking down at her desk and didn’t see him trying to get her attention. He stood up and dashed to the Nurse’s Station. Sara was focused on her phone scrolling through Instagram.

“Sara?” He whispered. He frightened her, and she nearly dropped her phone.

“What!? Stop sneaking up on people, TC.” She snapped.

“Did you send the nightly reports?”

“Oh! I forgot. I’ll do it right now.” She said. She rolled her chair over to the computer.

“I was reading your report and then wrote mine but got distracted. My sister posted some pics of her twin boys at their 3-year-old birthday party. They are so precious. Want to see?” Sara asked, handing him her phone.

“Cute boys. The superhero costumes are hilarious! Fake muscles on babies? What will they come up with next?” He smiled.

The same consecutive high pitch beeps came from Officer Vasil’s radio.

“Infirmary. Vasil.”

“Thanks for the reports. Have a good night.”

“Copy that.”

The morning sun beamed through the windows and cast a warm glow in the infirmary. Sergeant Ruiz had sent out the Post changes. Food carts were being rolled down the hallways for the inmates who were not allowed out of their cells.

“Post change for the Infirmary will happen after inmates have had breakfast. Warden’s orders.” A voice called over the radio.

“So I guess we get coffee for breakfast. I’d like to go home now and not have to wait for the Post change.” Sara said, walking to the coffee machine on her desk.

“On the contrary. I’m NOT eating prison food. We have pancakes with 2 flavors of syrup, muffins, croissants, oatmeal, orange juice, and fresh coffee. Oh, and Troy’s Fruit Loops. He has to have a bowl every morning. Sometimes two.” Dr. Mills explained.

Dr. Mills stood at the door of his cell dressed in green scrubs with a white lab coat. His name printed above his left pocket. His hair, slicked to his head, was pulled back in a short ponytail. He didn’t bother to shave showing more than a 5 o’clock shadow.

“Is all that food for yourself? Last time, you ate all by yourself when you were collecting data from the inmates.” Sara emphasized.

“You’re right. I was shellfish when we first met. I didn’t know you then.”

Sara rolled her eyes.

“Troy has softened me. He suggested I include infirmary staff in our meals. So for the next week you, and whoever are stationed in the infirmary, will be eating what I have ordered. Excellent food. Tim will still eat prison food.” Dr. Mils exclaimed.

“Sounds great!” Officer Vasil cried. He was smiling in the outside, but his mind was racing on the inside. Why the change of heart? Generosity. Maybe he was drunk on joy now that his vaccine was about to be injected into the first human beings?

“Ya. Great.” Sara shrugged. Why was Vasil so kind? He’s just thinking with his stomach.

“Could you please let me out of my cage?” Dr. Mills looked at his watch. “Our food will be here in a few minutes.”

“We could feed you in your cell,” Sara growled. “That’s how caged animals eat.”

“Yes. I’ll let you out. You’re our guest.” Officer Vasil laughed as he walked over to the cell and unhooked his keys from his belt. The key was a bit difficult to insert into the keyhole.

“Can you open this old door quietly? We can let Troy sleep for a few more minutes” Dr. Mills asked. Officer Vasil nodded.

Officer Vasil giggled the solid brass key slightly after inserting it in the lock. A faint click and door were free to open. He allowed the door to swing halfway and Dr. Mills gave him a strange look, trying to side-step through the doorway.

“The door squeaks loudly if you open it any further.”

Upon exiting the cell, Dr. Mills darted over to the Monitoring Stations. His white running shoes squeaked on the polished concrete floor. He began turning on the screens bringing the Monitoring Stations to life.

Two security officers and Latin women, with a large cart, appeared at the security door. Office Vasil quickly jogged over to the Nurses Station and pushed a yellow button. As soon as the door was open, to allow the cart inside, the African American officer forcefully escorted the Latin women and her cart into the infirmary.

“Hurry! We need to clear the hallway!” the officer bellowed at the Latin woman. She ignored the officer’s rude behavior and pushed the heavy cart through the doorway. The door closing behind them.

The aroma of freshly brewed coffee, baked goods, pastries, sausage, along with bacon, emulated from the gray cart. The mouthwatering smells permeated the infirmary in seconds.

“Is this going to be a normal occurrence with this food service!?” Officer Lee shouted inside the infirmary.

“Try and keep it down, Officer Lee. Troy is still sleeping. He was working hard yesterday.” Officer Vasil whispered, trying to keep a straight face.

Officer Lee stared at Officer Vasil in disbelief for a few moments as beads of sweat formed on his black forehead. He stood a few inches taller than Officer Vasil but not as muscular. He had a black goatee, trimmed short and kind brown eyes.

Did I hear correctly? We need to be quiet?”

His upper lip quivered, holding back the insults he desperately wanted to give to Officer Vasil

“Officer Lee, why are you sweating? You never sweat.” Vasil questioned. “And you’re looking thinner? Don’t tell me your wife is back on her vegan diet, dragging you along for the ride?”

“I’m training for the St. George Marathon,” Lee said through gritted teeth. “You should try eating vegan. It would help you lose some of your baby fat.” Lee exhaled a cleansing breath.

“I was trying to keep the Latino inmates from commandeering this dwarf-sized food truck!” Lee exclaimed. “What were you doing, Vasil??” Lee pried.

“What’s that supposed to mean?”

“Be glad Lt. Cribble hasn’t returned from vacation. You couldn’t joke your way out of this mess. Why you even thought of letting or allowing, these to yahoos to stay up past curfew. Sergeant Ruiz just about came with me, on the shift change, but the Warden approved the curfew violation.” Lee said, in disbelief.

“Really? Did he say why?” Vasil uttered.

“No.”

Vasil shot a quick glance at Sara. He saw concern. Fear. Uncertainty. A fear he’d not seen in her before. Why? Maybe her suspicions were now starting to worry him. What was this vaccine? The Warden was a hard-nosed rule-following person. Now it was okay to break a rule. What next?

“Well, The Warden did say that they were our guests and we should help them in any way we can,” Vasil stated.

“He really said that? Lee inquired.

Vasil nodded.

“Who’s the new guy? You act too quiet to be a security guard.”

“Name’s Jeramy Banks. Good to meet ya!” Jeramy said in a light Texan drawl. He reached out and took Officer Vasil’s hand and shook it.

“I’m not quiet, Officer Vasil. Ya see, my daddy taught me if you don’t have anythin’ to add to a conversation, it’s best if you keep silent.” Jeramy taught.

“Those are great words to live by. Don’t you think Vasil?” Lee sneered.

“Oh, haha. Officer Lee the comedian. Don’t quit your day job. Did you read my report, Jeramy?”

“Sure did. Every word. When I read the report, it sure seemed a lot like the same report Ms. McKee wrote.” Banks stated.

“I’m sure the reports would be similar. We both worked in the infirmary last night.” Vasil noted. “I’m assigned to the infirmary on the night shift for the next six month, so our reports will be similar.”

“Are those reports going to be pressed together or will they come separated?” Lee laughed. Vasil glared back at him.

“That’s gotta be an inside joke.” Banks uttered.

“What kind of experience do you have with prisoners?” Vasil asked, changing the subject.

“I served proudly as an MP in the Army. Served for over 18 years. Three tours to Iraq and one tour to Afghanistan. As well as some other tours I know you don’t have clearance for me to discuss them.” Banks reported, almost standing at attention.’

“You’ll fit in nicely here at the Utah State Prison,” Vasil said.

Troy sat straight up in bed. His dream of Tim chasing him was too real. The old mattress groaned with his every movement. His unfocused, wide eyes strained against the bright lights.

“Rise and shine!” Dr. Mills shouted. “Time to make history!”

Troy shot out of bed. His bare feet landing on the cold concrete made him jump right back into bed. A shiver pulsed through his body. As he panned the cell looking for his shoes but spotted Tim staring at him with undressing eyes. Troy felt sick. Nauseated. How can a human being sink to that level? Vasil noticed Tim straining his head to look at Troy.

“Don’t worry Troy, Tim will be going back to his cell when I leave. Sara approved his release from the infirmary. Isn’t that correct Sara?”

“Yes. Tim can rejoin the prison population.”

Troy could feel his anxiety drain away, like water draining from a bathtub. Say goodbye to the sick, disgusting old man. Troy looked back at Tim with repugnance.

Dr. Mills motioned for the Latina women to bring her cart over to him. She grabbed the handles on the sides of the rolling box, turned it around, and pulled it towards Dr. Mills.

“Did you make the wheat pancakes and bring the nonfat milk? You forgot those last time, and I had to settle for the prison substitutes.” Dr. Mills barked.

“Si. Dr. Mills. I made all the food, as instructed. Es en el envase. The container.” Gloria reported, tapping on the container’s door.

Gloria reached into her apron and took out a small key attached to a red expandable keychain. She proceeded to open the locks on the rolling container’s doors. She began to remove metal containers from slotted shelves. Peeling back the tinfoil that kept the food warm and moist. Each food container was shaped like the trays from airline food trays. All of them were labeled on the top and the sides with its contents.

She quickly removed the breakfast food items and set them on a small table preparing to serve it. She grabbed plates, cups, and silverware, which seemed to know exactly where to land on the table when they were released from her hand.

Dr. Mills sat and pulled the wheat pancakes to him. Troy sauntered over the table, shuffling his feet, to keep his slippers in place. He plopped into the old folding chair.

“I’m a man of my word. Get it while it’s still hot!” Dr. Mills shouted.

“T—Officer Vasil and Sara haven’t eaten yet. I promised them better food then what this prison has to offer. They need to be rewarded for their help and patience that they’ve provided to us.” Dr. Mills said.

“Well, in that case, you’d better go eat your breakfast. You to Sara.” Lee ordered.

Vasil side-stepped around Officer Lee, their shoulders rubbed each other. Lee grabbed Vasil’s arm and halted his advance to the waiting breakfast.

“Sergeant Ruiz wants you to report to his office right after your breakfast. He’d like a personal report on why you chose to break curfew. Just be thankful Warden Spencer approved it.” Lee whispered.

“You see this all wrong. Warden Spencer has fired guards for lesser infractions. Curfew violation approved? Why?” Vasil stated, glaring at Lee. He pulled away from Lee’s grasp, straightened his shirt and headed to his waiting breakfast.

Lees’ comment stung. How could he be so narrow-minded? There was more happening here, and Lee could only see rules being broken. Maybe it’s the money that Holbech and Mills were paying Warden and the Lt. Governor.

Holbech and Mills. The Mills part of the company has to be Dr. Mills. How can someone that young be an owner of such a large corporation? Vasil thought.

As Vasil drew closer to the table, he noticed how fluid Gloria’s actions were as she served breakfast to Dr. Mills and Troy. It was like watching a cooking show. His mouth started to water. She seemed to know what Dr. Mills and Troy wanted before they asked. She was either very talented at what she did, or she’d been working for Dr. Mills for a long time. He wanted to believe she was capable.

Sara hung back. Vasil gave her a puzzled look and motioned for her to come to breakfast. Sara pretended to answer a text on her phone as she walked towards the breakfast table.

“Officer Lee, could you get Tim’s chart from my desk? I need you to sign his chart, so you take him back to his cell.”

“Banks. Please get Tim’s chart.” Lee ordered.

“Yes sir” Officer Banks replied.

“So, I guess you and Vasil had to postpone your bone sessions since Troy, and Dr. Mills were here in the infirmary.” Officer Lee uttered.

“Excuse me! There’s none of that happening with Vasil!” Sara proclaimed.

“That’s not what I’ve been hearing.” Officer Lee refuted.

“So I guess it’s just your sick imagination.” Sara snapped. She put out her hand as Officer Banks come walking back with Tim’s chart.

“Thank you, Officer Banks.” She said kindly. “May give you some advice since you’re new here?”

Officer Banks gave a quick glance to Officer Lee.

“Don’t let the other guards corrupt you in any way. Get the facts before you make any judgments.” Sara said. She made a few notes and handed the chart to Officer Lee.

“Sure thing Sara.” Banks replied.

“Okay. We’re done here.” Lee declared. “Hey, Doc! When do want us to start bringing you, inmates?” Lee asked.

“Officer Lee, I’m Dr. Mills. Not Doc! Is that clear, Officer Lee?” Dr. Mills replied.

“Everyone’s in such a happy mood this morning,” Lee said, forcing a smile.

“I’ll call you when we’re ready. Bring the inmates in six at a time. We only have 6 stations. I don’t want to have anyone standing around causing trouble.” Dr. Mills instructed.

“I’ll gladly bring you six inmates at a time, Dr. Mills. Are there any other requests?” Lee mocked, giving a quick salute.

Lee turned his attention to Tim and began to unlock the restraints that held him captive to the bed, while Banks attached handcuff and leg cuff restraints. Sara had retrieved a glass of water for Tim. She knew from knew from experience that a glass of water was warranted after wearing the gag. She stood on one side of the bed and removed the bag and gag from Tim’s head and mouth.

“Thank you. Sara.” Tim said. His voice was coarse and dry. A great scare ran from his left ear, across his throat, down to his collarbone. He took the plastic cup from Sara and drank all the water. His face was wrinkled like an old leather chair but pale white.

“Let’s go! On your feet.” Officer Lee bellowed. He grabbed under his armpit and lifted Tim, so he was sitting up in bed. Tim winced in pain.

“He’s been strapped to this bed, not being able to move all night. Let his muscles stretch. Only small movements at first!” Sara cautioned. “Besides, He’s old, and he’s still a human being.”

“This old man stopped being a human being long ago. What he did to those kids was unforgivable.” Officer Lee said through gritted teeth.

“He’s in here paying for his crimes. He doesn’t owe you for any of those crimes.” Sara argued.

“I can appreciate your attitude towards Tim. A human and all that. But you’re sadly misguided. He’s a predator. You never turn you're back him, no matter what his age is. This ain’t no nursing home. He’s doing hard time for his crimes.” Officer Banks said coldly.

“I couldn’t have said it better myself.” Officer Lee agreed.

“As a nurse, I must look out for the welfare of the patients in my care, no matter what they’ve done. They still deserve to be treated well.” Sara countered.

“We can debate philosophically if prisoners are in fact human beings, some other time. In the meantime, you can concede that they’re animals and gave up their humanity when they chose to break the law.” Officer Banks proclaimed.

“Whatever,” Sara said. She took the chart and cup and walked back to the nursed station fuming.

Sara stood brooding at the nurse’s station. Lee looked frustrated as he glanced back at Sara when they reached the door. She’d forgot to press the yellow button to open the infirmary door.

“The nerve of some people and how they think people should be treated.” Sara pouted. “Someday Officer Banks will have to eat those words.”

“Sara!?” Officer Lee yelled.

“Sorry!” She replied, pressing the button, opening the door.

Sara took her time in getting to the table where the others sat eating breakfast. Her stomach was yelling at her to move faster. The food smelled so good. Much like a bakery in the early morning hours. Yet, her mind flashed back to the first encounter with Dr. Mills. She felt he was someone not to be trusted, even before he attacked her. He’s nothing more than a boa constrictor, waiting to for some poor sap to walk under the tree where it was waiting to drop from above and strangle the life out you.

“You can sit down, Sara. No need to stand. I know I’ll be closer than six feet to you.” Dr. Mills said, cutting his wheat pancakes.

“I’m just fine standing. I’m not eating my breakfast with a snake.”

Dr. Mills ignored Sara’s snide comment.

“You have to try the sugar-free blueberry syrup.” Dr. Mills said, handing it to Vasil.

“Gloria out-did herself this time. Muy bien!”

Sara was a hypocrite Dr. Mills thought. I’m trying to help humanity and provide her with some meals, which are better than prison food. Some people just can’t be pleased or show any gratitude.

“Wow! It is good! Despite being sugar-free. Warm too.” Vasil exclaimed, shoving more pancakes in his mouth. “Why aren’t you having pancakes, Troy?”

“They’re nasty! I’ll stick with the Fruit Loops.”

“What! How can anyone not like pancakes!?”

“You eat what you like, and I’ll do the same,” Troy uttered, shoveling in another spoonful of Fruit Loops into his mouth.

Sara walked around the table and over to Gloria to survey the breakfast items.

“What can I prepare for you?” Gloria asked.

“I see the bagels and cream cheese? I’ll have a cinnamon bagel and regular cream cheese. And some coffee. One sugar and two creams.” Sara replied.

Sara wasn’t going to admit to Dr. Mills that he was right about the prison food and she was thankful for breakfast. It felt like he always had an ulterior motive for each action. And giving him any acknowledgment would only fuel his ego. Gloria handed Sara her food in record time.

“Muchas gracias!” Sara smiled.

“De nada!”

Breakfast was quiet after Sara’s comment referencing Dr. Mills as a snake. Vasil didn’t dare say anything for fear of having his comment sounding like he was siding with Sara or Dr. Mills. Sara meant a great deal to him.

Vasil kept a poker face. He still had several unanswered questions about the vaccine. How Warden Spencer was involved? Who else in prison knew the details of the vaccine? Are other players? What’s their level of involvement?

Troy nearly choked on his cold cereal. He was envious of Sara and her boldness and wished he’d been able to say something like that, but he had obligations to his sister and her schooling. Yet, he was kidding himself. He lacked the backbone to stand up his boss. He also loved his job. The projects he was able to advance with his skills were very gratifying. He was helping change the planet with this vaccine.

“Thank you, Gloria! Breakfast was delicious! I hope I can make it home without fall asleep.” Vasil said.

Gloria just smiled back.

“Don’t forget, you have to stop and talk with Sergeant Ruiz,” Sara said.

“Oh, I haven’t forgotten.” Vasil yawned.

“If Warden Spencer approved us breaking curfew, why should you have to talk with the Sergeant?” Dr. Mills questioned.

“We have rules. Those rules are followed to the letter or guards and/or inmates can be harmed, or even killed. This is unacceptable. Even though they’re criminals, they’re humans first. Sergeant Ruiz will want to hear my report in person,”

“It’s redundant and not necessary.” Dr. Mills scoffed.

“To you. Nevertheless, rules are not to be broken here in prison. That’s the main reason these criminals are in here. They broke the rules or the law. That’s part of their rehabilitation. Learning to follow the rules. Obey the law.”

“They’ll obey the law soon enough.” Dr. Mills uttered.

“How?”

Download the eBook or buy a hard copy of The Vaccine on Amazon to discover what Dr. Mills has prepared for those who get The Vaccine.