Here lie our brains

The lab was quiet, with just enough background noise from the hum of all the equipment to keep the room from disconcerting silence. That was why Gwen liked studying there, giving herself plenty of space to spread out on the lab benches that were wider than standard tables. Most people found the stools dotted around the room uncomfortable, but she was so used to perching on them as she worked that it almost felt strange sitting anywhere else.

It was after nine, and Gwen was so focused on the problem set she was working on for calculus that she didn't notice it was already dark and the students who had been using the other tables in the lab for their own studying had long since gone home. Luckily she had her own key, letting her stay as late as she wanted without making the custodians wait around to lock up behind her.