Page 4 of Jorax (Arixxia Fields #4)
Chapter Four
J orax
Glancing up at the clock, I note it’s nearly time for Syrryn’s first day of work. I must admit, a part of me dreads her arrival. No doubt my appearance disgusts her, as it does everyone. I can’t blame them—I’m hideous. My patchwork flesh and jigsaw face could send even the boldest souls running.
I’ve worked alone in this laboratory for years. None can bear to remain in my presence beyond the shortest professional interactions. The isolation suits me; I need no friends or companions beyond my research.
And yet… when Icaron introduced Syrryn, her warm eyes held no disgust as she took in my misshapen form.
Her initial surprise was replaced with curiosity.
Then pity showed on her gentle face. Could she truly accept me as her colleague?
The scientist in me scoffs at such fanciful imaginings.
She’ll be repelled, as are all the rest. Still, hope flickers traitorously inside me.
At precisely 8 o’clock, the laboratory door opens. Syrryn enters in a wave of freckles and chestnut hair.
“Good morning.” Her tone is bright as she sets her bag aside.
My answering rasp emerges fainter than anticipated. Her unaffected smile loosens my tight chest. Does she not see my ugliness? But no—as she crosses the room, scanning the equipment, her gaze slides over my gnarled features without judgment. Astonishing .
“Dr. Jorax Xyron,” I croak, finding my voice and assuming she doesn’t remember my name. “Let me give you a tour of the lab and facilities.”
For the next hour, Syrryn peppers me with thoughtful questions as I give her a more thorough tour of our lab and give her passwords to my research.
Her keen mind and self-assurance set me further at ease.
There is no cloying flattery or revulsion in her candid interest, only genuine scientific curiosity.
Each insight reveals her brilliance. Her specialty in virology will be the perfect addition to my existing research.
Icaron was wise to hire this human for our project.
When we return to our shared lab, I clear my throat. “I understand if working alongside me may be… uncomfortable. Please let me know if any adjustments would aid your productivity or peace of mind.” I gesture self-consciously at my grotesque body.
Syrryn frowns. “Why would that be necessary? You’ve already made me feel quite welcome here.”
I blink. Can she truly mean it?
“Because my, er, appearance can be… jarring.” The perpetual understatement. “I wouldn’t want it to hinder our professional relationship in any way.”
Understanding lights her eyes. “Jorax, please don’t trouble yourself. I’m honored to work with someone of your esteemed capabilities, period. I’ve studied some of your existing work in preparation for my first day. Your brilliance and dedication to this research far outweigh superficial concerns.”
My breath heaves in my chest. Brilliant? She sees beyond this loathsome exterior to the person within. For so long, I’ve believed myself fated to live in the shadows—shunned, alone, rejected. Could Syrryn be the first to truly accept me, scars and all?
I duck my head to hide my sudden emotion. “You’re too kind. Now, let me bring you up to speed on the Eryxi research… ”
Over the next few weeks, Syrryn establishes herself as a keen collaborator. Each new proposal builds upon the last with startling ingenuity. She adjusts protocols based on my suggestions, strengthening our approaches. Respect grows between us with each breakthrough and setback weathered together.
After these weeks working together, I can deny the truth no longer: I’ve found an intellectual equal at last. Syrryn perceives my humanity despite my appearance. A formidable mind glows behind those compassionate green eyes. How long have I ached for such basic acceptance?
Although I’ll never have what my heart yearns for in my quiet solitary moments—a mate, a female who loves me—just having a lab partner who can look at me without wincing is still something I’ve dreamed of for years.