Mr. Fleischer leaned back in the tall executive chair behind his massive desk and regarded Dr. Maerwynn and the technician, Tomas.
“How is it going with our auditor?”
Dr. Maerwynn said, “He is weak and easily manipulated.” She brushed her shoulder-length black hair from her strong face. With the artfully applied make-up, she still looked to be in her twenties, an illusion reinforced by her young, trim physique.
“And the medical evaluation team?”
“In the lab now with one of my assistants. They should be gone by mid-afternoon.”
“Good, good. Everything is coming together.”
Tomas said, “There is one small complication, sir. With the bodies sequestered for the audit examinations, we’re short two for today’s rotation.”
“I thought we accounted for the audit in our numbers.”
“We did,” Dr. Maerwynn said, “but the prison is late sending us the latest inmate transfers.”
“Shall I send the dispossessed to the vault?” Tomas asked.
“No,” Dr. Maerwynn said. “They’re not prepared for that. It would raise too many questions.”
Mr. Fleischer sat back in his chair, his face expressionless as he considered the situation. Tomas said hesitantly into the silence, “There is one other option, sir. The dolls are ready.”
Dr. Maerwynn shook her head, “I’d rather that information not circulate yet.”
“Can’t we just keep them sedated?” Mr. Fleischer asked.
“No,” said the doctor. “The drugs only work on the bodies. Once the souls are free, they’d be conscious within minutes.”
“Then what do you recommend?”
She grimaced. “We have to use the dolls.”
“I don’t need this today,” Mr. Fleischer growled.
“I see no other option.”
“Very well. Do it.” He leaned forward and fixed both of the others with his hard stare. “But keep it contained.”
Tomas said, “Shall I pick two random donors?”
“No.” Mr. Fleischer considered for a moment and then smiled. “Use Sarah and Jill.”
Tomas looked surprised, and Dr. Maerwynn said, “Jill is a good choice. That woman won’t care what she gets. But are you sure about Sarah? She’s still resisting the full corporal transfer.”
“Oh, yes,” Mr. Fleischer said with a grin. “I’m sure. This will provide the last bit of leverage we need to bring her in line.”
“I’ll see it done,” Tomas said.
“Good. And make sure we get that convict body ready for her next jump.”
YOU ARE READING
Saving Face
FantasyThere's no place like home. For Sarah, home is the body she grew up in, and she's gone far too often. In a near future where the renting of human bodies is possible, Sarah is a top model. She spends most of her time shuffling between temporary bod...
