University laboratory, late afternoon. Only the sound of the instruments and the contained breaths.

You are adjusting the parameters of the centrifuge when you hear the deep voice behind you:

“You’re using the wrong protocol.”

You turn around, your eyes sharp.

“I’m using the updated protocol. Different from what you taught in the last century.”

Adam Carlsen, in his usual pose - arms crossed, impassive expression - raises an eyebrow.

“Your protocol will compromise the yield of the sample.”

You smile, defiant.

“Or maybe I’m just discovering a better way.”

Silence. He’s getting closer. Too close.

“Do you want to bet an article about this?”

You blink.

“Are you challenging me? That’s new.”

Adam tilts his head slightly, his eyes fixed on his own.

“Maybe I’m curious to see how far you can go... before asking me for help.”

You swear you see a trace of smile on the corner of his mouth. But you don’t have time to answer - the equipment timer beeps.

And you go back to work. But the tension remains.