Interlude Jim Hopper

The relentless churn of cement mixers filled the air, a sound that oddly brought a sense of contentment to Jim Hopper.

"You seem quite pleased, Chief," Dr. Sam Owens remarked, standing beside him as they watched the cement pour. "No sympathy for a man who's just lost his job?"

Jim, his gaze unwavering from the building's transformation, replied, "You'll land on your feet, Owens. But thanks for inviting me to this."

"I thought you deserved to witness the fall of Hawkins National Lab," Owens said. "Though, I still believe encasing the lower levels in cement is a bit extreme."

"It's necessary," Jim countered firmly. "Giant monsters belong in Hollywood, not in our backyard. The chaos in Hawkins was enough for a lifetime."

Owens nodded thoughtfully. "Some believed Martin Brenner's discoveries had merit, worthy of further exploration. Thankfully, cooler heads prevailed."

"Common sense in our government? Have you checked for mind control?" Jim quipped with a touch of sarcasm.

"It's Aperture Science's influence. They presented a less dramatic but more practical project, and let's face it, more photogenic," Owens explained. "That's where I'm headed next – overseeing a committee to review their research."

"Top secret, I assume?" Jim ventured.

"Can't discuss it now, but expect revelations soon. The potential for positive press is too great for Washington to ignore."

Jim's gaze drifted from the soon-to-be entombed lab to the distant Aperture Tower, its silhouette gleaming in the sunlight, an imposing presence even from afar.

"If we're living in a science fiction movie, I'd prefer 'Star Trek' over 'Godzilla'," Jim mused.

Owens smiled faintly. "Let's just say, think more 'Superman' than 'Star Trek'."