Cougars

by Earl Sewell

“The process will start next week. I’ll have my assistant forward the schedule to you. I believe the first person will be the woman from GlaxoSmithKline. She’s scheduled to present a seminar on the research she’s been doing.”

  “Great, I’ll make sure that I clear my calendar.” Jasmine felt good about being included in the process.

  “There’s something else. A rather special project I want you to begin working on. It’s a rather complex idea, but I want to see if you and your team can come up with a pill that will do for women what Viagra has done for men with erectile troubles. I want you to create an aphrodisiac for women.”

  “An aphrodisiac for women?” Jasmine repeated what she’d heard just for clarification.

  “Yes, I know. It’s an idea that’s very cutting edge. However, if we can come up with a compound that has the ability to unlock the mystery of arousal in women, it would be something so revolutionary, so ground-breaking and radical that the scientific community would have to salute us for our innovation. Our investors would love it because it would be a blockbuster pill that industrialized nations would purchase in large quantities.”

  “Research on this is going to be a risky business, don’t you think? I mean, shouldn’t we be working on finding cures for more life-threatening illnesses?” Jasmine asked.

  Helen smirked and leaned back in her chair.

  “Jasmine, finding a cure is one thing, but creating a pill for someone with a chronic problem is another. For example, let’s take asthma. There is no cure for it, only an abundance of medications designed to relieve the symptoms. We’re living in challenging times. The landscape is littered with small biotech companies who aren’t paying for patents or royalties. They’re just rolling generic drugs off of a conveyor belt and putting up only a small amount of money to cover the cost of distribution and marketing to the public. You and I both know that the drugs they’re selling in the marketplace today are at least fifteen years old. There has been no real breakthrough in anything since the invention of penicillin. It’s going to take small biotech companies like ours to do the real innovative work because the big boys are too antiquated, strictly structured and too regulated to do anything meaningful.” Helen stood up and walked over to her window and pulled back the drapes. “Do you know that there are millions of women out there who can’t achieve an orgasm?”

  “I’ve heard stories, but I’ve never thought much of it,” Jasmine answered honestly and thought about discussing it with her girlfriends at some point, “That’s because all of the focus has always been on men. They knew that with age the very essence of their manhood would fade away. When they happened to stumble on Viagra, it immediately became a successful pill that men wanted. However, they were only thinking of themselves and not women. They figured an erect cock was all a woman needed. But as you and I know, that’s only a small part of the equation. Wouldn’t you agree?”

  Helen turned to meet Jasmine’s gaze. “Yes,” she answered as she listened intently.

  “If science can develop something that a woman can take which stimulates arousal to the highest degree, we’d change the way men and women relate to each other and we’d own the patent to it.”

  “Creating something like that, would, without a doubt be very pioneering,” Jasmine said as her mind began to think of a good place to start.

  “Yes it would, and if created, it would provide us with the money-making pill the company could make billions off of. I wish I had thought about doing this earlier in life, because I don’t want to have to wait fifteen years to see it hit the market.”

  “Well, I guess I’d better start thinking of the best way to approach this.” Jasmine said.

  “Yes, you should, but I want you to start on this after we’ve gone through the hiring process. I also need you to keep me apprised of your progress once you’ve started.”

  Helen nodded her head in a gesture to let Jasmine know she was more than serious about the project.

  “Okay,” Jasmine said.

  “That will be all. I have a meeting with a senator I must prepare for. Damn blood-sucking politicians,” Helen murmured under her breath.

  Jasmine then stood up to leave.

  “Oh, and Jasmine… Great job on the creation of the antibiotic. Hopefully it will change the way doctors treat respiratory infections. Our investors were pleased.”

  “Thanks,” Jasmine said and then exited her office.

  Chapter 10

  Travis

  Travis arrived at Chicago’s Midway Airport on a balmy afternoon. He walked off of the aircraft and began heading toward the baggage claim area. He stopped briefly at the concession shop to pick up a newspaper, then continued onward toward the baggage claim area. Once he retrieved his luggage, he headed outside where he hailed a cab and gave the driver the address to Alex’s downtown condo. As he rode along, Travis picked up the newspaper and began reading an article about the pharmaceutical industry that had caught his eye. A local female senator named Yolanda Cobb was up for reelection and there was a commentary about her going around soliciting campaign contributions from local pharmaceutical companies, one of which he had an interview with. He read the article with interest and intrigue, primarily because Senator Cobb was also reported to have close ties to pharmaceutical regulators.

  This has scandal written all over it. But then again Illinois is known for shady politicians, Travis thought to himself. He turned the page and saw an article about the impeachment of the Illinois state governor for trying to sell a senate seat.

  A SHORT TIME LATER, the cab pulled in front of Alex’s house. Travis paid the driver, grabbed his luggage and headed inside. Alex lived in the South Loop area of Chicago in a residential community called Central Station. The development looked out on Grant Park, the Museum Campus and Soldier Field Football Stadium. The Chicago Lakefront, Buckingham Fountain, and Navy Pier were all within walking distance or just a short cab ride. Travis used the key that Alex had sent to him earlier to gain entrance.

  “Hello,” Travis called out just to make sure Alex didn’t have a change of plans and was still at home. After hearing no response and glancing around he knew that his friend was indeed out of town.

  Alex had a flare for art. He liked to collect unique items such as tribal masks, glass figurines, and sea shells whenever he traveled someplace exotic. The decor of his home reflected his unique sensibilities, but it wasn’t over the top. He had beautiful hardwood floors throughout his unit and a see-through glass stairway that allowed the downstairs and upstairs areas to interrelate. Travis pulled his suitcases into the spare bedroom, then went into the kitchen where he’d found a Post-It note from Alex that read: My home is your home. Best of luck on your interview.

  Travis set the note on the countertop and opened up the refrigerator. He grabbed himself a beer, twisted off the cap, and took several long gulps until he finished off the bottle.

  “Damn, that was good,” he said aloud. He went back into the bedroom and retrieved his laptop, then sat down at the kitchen table, booted it up and went over his presentation notes for his seminar in the morning.

  WHEN TRAVIS ARRIVED AT THE BIOTECH FIRM, he was escorted into an auditorium where there were several people waiting on him. He shook hands with everyone on the committee and thanked them for the opportunity. Travis was nervous and anxious, but eager to get started. After a little setup time, he began his presentation which he delivered masterfully. Next, he had taken a few questions from the committee and was thanked for his time.

  By the time Travis had made it back to Alex’s place, he received a phone call from the biotech company much sooner than he’d expected. He thought it’d take at least several days for them to call him back, however, he was scheduled for a formal interview in two days. Travis spent the next forty-eight hours really doing more research on the company so that he’d be able to answer questions intelligently.

  When he returned for the interview, he was placed in a special conference room. He’d anticipated a singl
e interview by multiple people, but was surprised when a woman entered the room.

  “Hello, Mr. Adams,” greeted a stunningly beautiful woman with a set of alluring eyes that looked very familiar to him.

  “Hello.” Travis stood up to shake her hand. “I’m sorry, but I didn’t catch your name.”

  “My name is Jasmine.” She smiled before taking a seat. For the life of him Travis couldn’t pinpoint why she looked so familiar.

  “That was quite an impressive presentation you gave yesterday,” Jasmine said as she threaded her fingers together into a prayer position and placed them on the tabletop.

  “Would you like something to drink before we get started? Coffee, tea, or water?”

  “No, I’m fine. Thanks for asking.”

  “Okay then,” Jasmine said as she opened up a folder with a form inside that she planned to fill out during the interview process. Travis kept gazing at Jasmine and her features, trying desperately to search his memory of when and where he’d seen her. Even now her voice was starting to sound so familiar.

  “I’m going to begin by telling you a little bit about me,” Jasmine said.

  “Yes, please do.”

  “I’m one of the head researchers here. I have my own team and we’ve been doing research on a variety of drugs.”

  “Yes, I’ve learned that you and your team are about to get a new antibiotic approved for the marketplace. Congratulations,” Travis said.

  “I see you’ve done your homework.” Jasmine smiled.

  “I’m very good at researching things.” Travis laughed.

  “So I see,” Jasmine commented.

  The interview was scheduled to last one hour, but ended up taking an hour and a half. By the time Travis left he felt confident, but didn’t want to jump up for joy just yet; he knew from experience that nothing was guaranteed.

  On Friday evening Travis decided to head over to a mix-and-mingle gathering hosted by a company called Blackfitandsingle.com taking place at the Shedd Aquarium Museum. He’d heard an advertisement about the event on the radio and thought it would be an excellent way to unwind after his grueling interview process. He put on his black pinstripe business suit and a nice shirt without a tie. He hailed a cab so he wouldn’t have to walk. When he arrived, the place was crowded with people who appeared to have just gotten off from work. Travis really wasn’t on the prowl; he just wanted a drink and a little casual conversation. After navigating his way through the crowd, he finally found the bar. He ordered a beer and then stepped out onto the terrace where it was much cooler. There was a magnificent view of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline. Travis leaned forward and rested his elbows on the concrete railing and watched as lovers strolled hand in hand along the path below him.

  “If I didn’t know any better, I’d say you were following me.” Travis slowly craned his head to the right to see if the voice was speaking to him.

  “Ms. Sallie, wow, this is a surprise. How are you doing?” Travis stood with a more erect posture.

  “Oh, come on now. You don’t have to be so formal. The interview is over. You can call me Jasmine,” she said as she took a small sip of her wine.

  “Okay.” Travis smiled.

  “I saw you when you walked in,” Jasmine said, glancing at his fit body. “That’s a very nice suit.”

  Travis tugged at his jacket. “Thanks, I’m a sucker for tailored suits.”

  “You don’t remember me, do you?” Jasmine leaned her hip against the concrete banister.

  “You know, I was trying hard to place where we’d met, but I still haven’t figured it out.”

  “For a man who makes a living doing research, I would have never thought that trying to recall where we’d met would be such a puzzle to you.” Jasmine took another sip of her wine.

  “You know this is killing me, right?” Travis said.

  “I’ll let you off the hook this time since we’ve only really met once and rather briefly at that. We met in New York a few months ago.”

  Travis snapped his fingers. “That’s right! You were there celebrating your girlfriend’s birthday.”

  “Yes I was, but I had no idea that I was engaged in a conversation with such an intelligent young man. I thought you and your friend were playing some childish game.”

  “My friend Alex was drunk. He has the hots for you, to put it frankly. Whatever you said to him during your flight to New York has piqued his curiosity about you,” Travis said, taking a gulp of his beer.

  “I was only flirting with him a little. He really isn’t my type,” Jasmine admitted.

  “So I guess that means you’re not married,” Travis concluded.

  “No. I’ve never been married.”

  “Kids?” Travis asked.

  “No children either. I was engaged once to a wonderful man. I loved him dearly, but sadly he passed away.”

  “Oh, I’m sorry to hear that.”

  “Shit happens, you know. Some things that take place are just beyond our control.”

  “Isn’t that the truth,” Travis agreed. “So, how do you think I did? Will I get the job?”

  Jasmine smiled, then handed her empty wineglass to one of the waiters who was passing by. “I can’t discuss that with you, Mr. Adams,” she said firmly.

  “Hey, I had to ask.” Travis shrugged.

  “I understand.” Jasmine paused for a long moment. “So tell me about you.”

  “You already know everything about me,” Travis said.

  “That’s the professional side of you. I’m talking about the personal side. Any children?”

  “God no. I’m not the fatherly type,” Travis admitted.

  “Oh, I’m sure you’d make a great father. You just have to find the right young woman.”

  “That probably won’t happen anytime soon.” Travis waved his hands totally discounting Jasmine’s theory.

  “You don’t have to be modest. You’re a handsome young man. I’m sure that you have plenty of young ladies stalking you.”

  “You see, that’s the thing. I’ve never really dated women my age. I prefer to date women who are older.”

  “Is that a fact?” Jasmine raised her eyebrow.

  “A fact that can be scientifically proven.” Travis smirked.

  “You are a witty one.” Jasmine liked his easygoing manner. Jasmine looked him up and down, then said, “This may sound a little bold, but are you seeing anyone in particular at this time?”

  “Why do you want to know?” Travis asked.

  “It’s just a question.”

  “Let me ask you a question. Have you ever dated anyone as young as me?” Travis looked directly into her eyes. He was once again enjoying a flirtatious conversation with her.

  “I prefer dating men your age,” Jasmine said.

  Travis turned and rested his elbows on the concrete banister. “Can I get you another drink?” he asked, thinking that he was going to have Jasmine tonight.

  “No. In fact, I’m about to go home,” she said.

  “But you just got here.”

  “I was here before you, remember?”

  “Yeah, but I was enjoying your company. You just can’t walk away and leave me like this.”

  “Sure I can. I’m positive your friend, Alex is lurking around somewhere.”

  “He’s not here. He’s out of town,” Travis said.

  “Well, tell him I said hello the next time you see him.” Jasmine smiled pleasantly at him once more, then walked away.

  “Wait a minute.” Travis trailed behind her. “Will you at least let me walk you to your car?”

  “Sure, if you’d like to, but it’s not necessary,” Jasmine assured him.

  “No, I really want to. So where do you live?” he asked.

  “Not too far from here. It should only take me about thirty minutes to get home. Especially now that traffic has died down some.”

  “This may sound a little off the wall, but I’d like to see you again. Even if I don’t land the position, I w
ouldn’t mind having lunch or dinner or even just a cup of coffee with you,” Travis said as he walked down the stairs of the museum.

  “Why?” Jasmine asked, deciding that she’d allow him to chase her for the moment.

  “Well, for starters, I think you’re hot. You look fantastic.”

  “So you only want me for my hot body?”

  Travis smiled. “No, no. I want to get to know you better as well.” Travis cleared up his intentions.

  “Shit, I was hoping you only wanted to have kinky sex,” Jasmine said. They had finally reached her vehicle. She opened her car door and got inside. She fired up the ignition, and then rolled down her window.

  “You don’t know the things that I could do to you, Jasmine,” Travis said, glancing at her lustfully.

  “Oh, no, my dear. You have no idea how I’d rock your world.” Jasmine winked at Travis and then began to pull off.

  “So you’re going to just leave me like this? Standing in the middle of a parking lot?”

  “Go back inside and have a good time. I’m sure there are plenty of Cougars in there who’d love to play with you tonight.” Jasmine pressed the accelerator and zoomed off.

  Chapter 11

  Jasmine

  On Saturday morning, Jasmine awoke to the sound of her cell phone ringing. She turned over in bed, placed a pillow over her head and tried to get more sleep. The phone stopped ringing, but then started right back up. Annoyed, Jasmine reached over to turn the phone off, but saw that Harrison was once again calling her.

  “Oh Jesus, Harrison. Grow the fuck up and leave me alone!” Jasmine uttered as the phone once again stopped. A few seconds later, it began ringing again.

  “I see right now that I’m going to have to change my damn phone number.” Jasmine debated whether or not to answer the phone. She thought she’d made herself perfectly clear, but Harrison was obviously having trouble moving on. Jasmine decided that she needed to be a little more forceful with him, so he’d understand that she wanted all of the phone calls and text messages to stop.

  “Hello,” she answered.

  “Hey!” Harrison sounded excited.