The Deviant Underground (Time Bandit) by Elisabeth Roseland Page B

another reason to be impressed.”
    Kathryn skirted over the compliment. “Nah. It just means that I have a PhD in Nerdy with an extra helping of Geeky and a side order of Boring.”
    Jonathan laughed out loud this time. “What did I tell you?” Charge said proudly. “Smart, beautiful, and talented.”
    Kathryn scoffed and rolled her eyes. “Whatever.” She continued to devour her food.
    Jonathan ignored Kathryn's response and just nodded in agreement with Charge. “I see.” He signaled the waitress and ordered another round of beers. The fresh bottles were put down in front of them, and the old ones were taken away.
    “You know, “ Jonathan continued, “there is only so much we will be able to accomplish here in a few days. Isn't the semester about to be over?”
    “Yeah. We only have about two more weeks left,” Kathryn replied.
    “Well, when you get a break from your duties here, why don't you come out to LA for a while? Think of it as a vacation.”
    “Oh, um . . . well . . .”
    “That's a great idea!” Susan interjected. “We could spend a few weeks together hanging out. The beaches are beautiful.” Susan teased, “You could work on your tan.”
    Kathryn snorted. “Yeah, right, like I need a tan.”
    “Seriously, baby,” Charge joined in. “This is a great idea. Have you ever been to LA?”
    “No, I haven't, but . . .”
    “Great! Then this is the perfect opportunity.” Charge gripped her hand. “You’ll love it.”
    “And, of course, you will stay at my place.” Jonathan must have read the expression on Kathryn's face because he quickly clarified. “You all will stay at my place. I have plenty of room to accommodate everyone.”
    “Jonathan's place is so beautiful,” Susan said, her blue eyes sparkling with excitement. “It's up in the mountains, off the main road. The scenery up there is just gorgeous. It's the perfect place to relax and chill out for a while.”
    “Okay, um . . .” Kathryn said hesitantly. “I'll think about it.”
    “What's there to think about, baby?” Charge asked. “It's perfect. You deserve a vacation anyway. You work too hard, besides—”
    “Now, now,” Jonathan interrupted. “Let her mull it over for a bit and check her schedule. The invitation stands and is open for you to take advantage of whenever it’s best for you. However, nothing would make me happier than to have you as my guest.”
    “Thanks.” Kathryn was relieved that she wouldn’t be pressured to make a decision right there on the spot. She had to admit that the notion of vacationing in LA with Charge and Susan was appealing, but— Suddenly, Jonathan's attention was diverted to the tv located over the bar behind Kathryn. She turned to the screen.
    “More details are being uncovered about the recently discovered Underground Deviant Network. Apparently, the goal of the Network is to place unidentified deviants into positions of power in expectation of a covert deviant takeover at the highest levels of government and business. This information has reinforced the government's determination that all identified deviants remain incarcerated or institutionalized. The polls now show that public support for the proposed mainstreaming of deviants within the general population has plummeted to all-time lows. Just today, several corporations pledged to help fund additional research in the attempt to create a newborn screen to identify the one-half to one percent of the population born with these genetic abnormalities. Until accurate, reliable medical screenings can be created, we are all reminded that we must rely upon each other to identify deviants living among us. If you see a person exhibiting any unusual behavior or physical abnormalities, immediately go to a safe place and call the police or the Deviant Discovery Hotline.”
    Kathryn’s stomach churned and the blood rose to her face, causing her to sweat. Charge's leg pressed against hers, once warm and comfortable, now felt searing hot,