Dr. Peter Thorne

It took longer this time, at least ten minutes.

Thorne's mind was spinning with the possibilities.

Benjamin stood near the door, warily eyeing the machine like it might burst apart at any moment.

Finally, it dinged.

Thorne took a deep breath as he removed the glasses and put them back on his face.

It was like entering a whole new world.

The colors were brighter, angles and lines were sharper, and he could see every single particle in the room, down to the pores on Benjamin's face.

It's incredible, he breathed.

Can I see?

Benjamin stepped closer and held out his hand.

Thorne instinctively backed away.

Maybe later.

I have to go test these out.

He ran from the room, barely containing his joy and wonder as he whooped outside the door.

Over the next few days, things got better and better.

Dr. Thorne shared his research paper, and his bosses were so impressed that he was immediately promoted.

His wife seemed more beautiful than ever, and his house felt shiny and new.

He got used to doing whatever he wanted while wearing his special shirt, and he only took it off when sleeping at night.

When his wife finally convinced him to let her wash it, he did so reluctantly.

and only on a Saturday when he wasn't working.