"Elizabeth…", Dr. Thomas cried when she entered the room where Liz and Mia were resting.
She gave Liz a big hug and whispered: "Why are you here?"
"I understood that you need to be rescued.", Liz whispered back.
Dr. Thomas exhaled. "I wanted you to know that I am done and that you have ten days to ask for clarifications if needed. I was hoping that you will get my work published and known to others, and not to come here."
Liz pulled away from Dr. Thomas and put on her best smile while talking in a normal voice. "We are glad to be here. The trip was fine. I know you wanted us to talk when you return, but we were all eager to see how your lab works here. Will we get a tour?"
Dr. Thomas didn't respond to Liz. She looked at Mia. "You are Elizabeth's assistant?"
Mia nodded and hugged Dr. Thomas.
"Not even close.", Mia whispered. "I'm the rescue team."