Revision History

This novel is still work in progress. After chapters are posted, they generally undergo slight modification. Perhaps in response to feedback (very much appreciated!), or changes of heart, or to repair plot conflicts. Minor fixes are not noted here. Only the significant updates are summarized below (under bold font headers, for the most recent additions):

Chapter 1. Posted July 23, 2025 

August 9, 2025   

       Additions to Lydia's backstory. 

August 17, 2025

       Barista Pete makes a cameo.

       Lydia states that the headshot on her website is not a likeness. It is AI-generated.  

August 21, 2025

       A corporate monolith is introduced: GigantoPharm.

Chapter 2. Posted August 25, 2025

May 12, 2026

       Susan (Robbins' technician) is responsible for upkeep of their cell-imaging facility.   

May 20, 2026

       Lydia issues a threat

Chapter 3. Posted September 1, 2025

September 3, 2025 

     Added: the significance of the GigantoPharm Cancer Prize.

September 24, 2025

     Added: In response to Robbins' questioning, Agarwal provides more information on the conference at which Lydia has planned to interview him. 

November 5, 2025

     With Traci Weber being the focus of Chapter 6, it became necessary to add more backstory to her (professional) relationship with Chuck Standish. 

November 28, 2025

      Traci's sister arranges a visit.

December 16, 2025 

     Added: A description of Traci's appointment at the FIB. . .

January 17, 2026

      . . .  as Chair of the Cell Signaling Department, replacing Ted Worthington ("Ted the Head"). 

March 2, 2026

      Added: Some difficulties that Traci encountered in her new position, which are further elaborated in later chapters. 

Chapter 4. Posted September 28, 2025.  Revised and reposted May 24, 2026

Chapter 5. Posted December 28, 2025 

April 27, 2026

     Added: At the time of his death, Standish was not married. 

December 29, 2025

   Added: Traci Weber's family history 

Chapter 6. Posted (originally as Chapter 5) October 30, 2025 

Chapter 7. Posted January 15, 2026

Chapter 8. Posted March 6, 2026

March 8, 2026

    More information on the capability of GigantoPharm AI 

Chapter 9. Posted April 19, 2026

May 7, 2026

    Lydia's article that promotes the significance of Agarwal's conference on aging (see above) has been referenced by scientific journals, a digital wellness web site, and mainstream news media.

Chapter 10. Posted May 9, 2026