Warning! The following may contain bad spelling, grammar, punctuation, cardboard characters, cheesy plots, offensive NSFW material, and / or puns. Reader discretion is advised.
“That’s a strong accusation, Clary. You got any proof?”
“Back at our offices I have an analysis of the formula. We bought a can of Zooper and ran the chemical breakdown ourselves. If you don’t believe me, go out and get a can yourself and have your techs work on it.”
Taylor made a note and set the notebook aside.
“In the meantime, the terrorist have dumped an unknown amount of the formula into the city water supply. If you run an analysis of it too I’m sure you’ll find the same thing.”
“If what you say is true, the whole city could be at risk.”
“That is what I have been trying to tell you.”
Lt. Taylor got up and had a police officer come into the interrogation room. “Take him and his partner and put them in holding. I’ve got to go check some things out.”
****
Lt. Taylor went to his desk and grabbed his keys.
“You headed out, Lieutenant?”
“Yeah, I feel a sudden need for some refreshment.”
“Coffee not good enough for you?”
“Yeah, I just want something with a little more pick me up. When was that pot brewed?”
“Just this morning.”
“Yeah, well, I’d avoid making any more until I’ve checked some things out. And don’t drink any water from the taps.”
“What’s up, Lieutenant?”
“Hopefully a wild goose chase. But if I’m wrong, let’s just say you don’t want to drink the water.”
****
Twenty minutes later Taylor was back with a case of Zooper Energy Drink. He headed to the science lab. When he got there he found Angie Carlson, busily working at her station.
“Hey, Angie, you busy?”
“Always. Whatcha got this time?”
“I need you to tell me what is in this stuff.”
“Can you be more specific?”
“You know, what chemicals and things are in it. That science stuff you do.”
“Isn’t reverse engineering a competitors product illegal?”
“Yeah, well I’m not trying to compete but I might need to put someone out of business. And while you’re at it, can you test the tap water and see if the same stuff shows up there too?”
“That seems rather doubtful. Other than water being in both of them.”
“Yeah, well that is what I want to find out.”
“Is there something specific you think I’ll find?”
“Yeah, something that makes people explode.”
Angie gave him a ‘you’ve got to be kidding’ look.
“Yeah I know it sounds weird but just go with me on this.”
“Okay, just leave it there and I’ll get back to you when I’m done.”
“Can you put a rush on this? If you find something we could be in for some rough times ahead.”
Angie’s expression grew more concerned. “Sure thing. I’ll call you when it’s done.”
“Thanks, Angie. You’re the best.”
“And don’t you forget it.”