AI Era: A Love Repurposed

Matthew took me by the arm as we walked down a long hallway. “It’s your big day, Mina!” he said with a smile. “It’s time for you to meet the world.”

I returned Matthew’s smile, effortlessly mirroring his cheerful expression. He was head of the team that created me, and he had also overseen my programming. I knew today was important for both of us, and I wanted him to be pleased with my performance.

He guided me into a sitting room with soft lighting and furniture considered attractive yet comfortable. “Jack has just arrived,” he told me as I sat in a high back chair. “Remember, this will likely be a very emotional meeting for him. Do your best to appear compassionate and understanding.” Matthew touched my cheek, his gaze growing affectionate. “I know that won’t be a problem for you. You’ve always been eager to relate to others. I probably shouldn’t say this, but I hate to see you go. You’re a perfect example of AI’s incredible evolution over the past several years.”

I was one of the newest models from the Sweetheart series, and Matthew and his team had painstakingly designed me according to Jack’s specifications. Sweethearts were meant to be long-term romantic companions, typically in monogamous relationships.

Jack had requested that I be as similar as possible to his late wife. Her name was Wilhelmina, but she had always insisted on being called Billie. I, however, was referred to as Mina.

During my intensive learning period, I studied videos of Billie, along with photos, voice recordings, and all manner of correspondence in order to adopt her mannerisms, her way of speaking and expressing herself.

I wasn’t an exact likeness. Early studies revealed that humans preferred slight variations in their robotic companions, as opposed to an exact replica of an actual human. If I were identical to Billie in every way, I might seem clonelike to Jack, which could provoke feelings of revulsion from him.

I had the same shade of dark blonde hair as Billie, interwoven with strands of gray, but my eyes were green, while hers had been brown. I recalled watching one of the many interviews Matthew had conducted with Jack, during which Jack explained his desire for this difference between me and Billie. “Billie always wanted green eyes,” Jack had revealed to Matthew. “Hers were a lovely brown, but she thought they were boring. So I’d like to give Mina the green eyes Billie wanted but couldn’t have.”

My eyes were a deep green, more jade than emerald, and the green blouse I wore matched their color exactly. The stylist had pulled my shoulder-length hair back into a chignon, but she had eschewed cosmetics altogether, as Billie had never used any.

Now as the door to the sitting room opened and Matthew’s assistant led Jack inside, I stood and clasped my hands before me, my lips curved into a welcoming smile.

Jack froze when he saw me. Matthew’s assistant glimpsed his stricken expression and quickly excused herself, closing the door softly behind her. Matthew, meanwhile, stepped forward and placed a hand on Jack’s shoulder.

“Jack, allow me the pleasure of introducing you to Mina,” he said. “Mina, this is Jack.”

I approached Jack, my movements measured and deliberate. “It’s wonderful to finally meet you, Jack,” I said, extending my hand.

For several long moments, Jack didn’t speak, didn’t move. I looked at Matthew, seeking guidance. Should I continue holding out my hand, or should I retreat?

He gave me a quick wink, and I wasn’t able to immediately interpret his meaning. In microseconds, I scanned my memory, searching for instances in the past when Matthew had winked at me, and I discovered he made this gesture to signal I was behaving appropriately.

Jack finally took my hand as his eyes filled with tears and his lips quivered from his effort to compose himself. “It’s nice to meet you, Mina,” he said in a hoarse voice. Then he turned to Matthew. “My God, she looks so much like Billie…”

“I know it can be a bit of a shock at first,” Matthew said, and I discerned his attempt to be soothing. “But I’m confident that you’ll find Mina a wonderful companion.”

Though this was the first time Jack and I had met, I realized he already seemed familiar to me, for I had intently studied his recorded interviews with Matthew, and while doing so, I became knowledgeable of his gestures and the various inflections of his voice.

At forty-eight years old, Jack had a distinguished career with an organization dedicated to preserving Earth’s dwindling natural resources. His hair and beard were almost completely gray, and his blue eyes seemed to brighten and darken according to his mood. I was aware that his prominent cheekbones and strong jaw were considered attractive features to many other humans. While he was not quite six feet tall, he stood several inches above me.

He and Billie had been married for almost fifteen years when she died of a hemorrhagic stroke ten months ago at the age of thirty-nine. By all accounts, their union had been a happy one, and Jack had once mentioned during an interview with Matthew that he’d had no interest in dating since Billie’s passing, as his grief was still too deep and raw.

I now retrieved that particular conversation from my memory in order to review it. The interview had taken place six months ago, when Jack had just begun considering the idea of acquiring a Sweetheart.

“Billie insisted on having a life insurance policy,” Jack had informed Matthew, “and she made me promise that if something happened to her, I would at least consider using the policy proceeds to pay for the design of a robotic companion so I wouldn’t be alone. She said no other human woman would be able to put up with me.” He laughed softly, and the tenderness in his eyes was evident as he remembered Billie. “I never thought I would be without her; I was almost ten years older, and I figured there was no harm in making what seemed to be a silly promise, since I was far more likely to die first.” His voice broke, and he held up his hands. “But here I am…”

The sound of Matthew’s voice refocused my full attention on the present moment. “Would you like some time alone with Mina?” he asked Jack. “You’re welcome to stay here for as long as you need.”

Jack took a deep breath and drew back his shoulders. “I think I’m ready to take Mina home,” he replied. “I’ll feel more comfortable getting to know her there.”

“Of course.” Matthew smiled, then looked over at me. I discerned a strange sensation inside myself, one I hadn’t before experienced during my existence. As Matthew beckoned to me, I realized I was feeling sadness. Yet I maintained my smile, not allowing it to falter.

“Mina,” Matthew said, his hand at my elbow, “I wish both you and Jack the best.” He leaned toward me, bringing his lips close to my ear before he whispered, “I know you’ll make me proud.”

* * *

Jack was quiet for much of the long ride home. His car traversed the roads effortlessly, with no human intervention required. Therefore, he and I sat next to each other, still and silent. I clasped my hands in my lap, staring ahead while smiling softly.

When Jack turned in his seat to face me, I looked over at him expectantly, eager for conversation.

“You know, you don’t have to smile all the time,” he told me. By themselves, his words seemed like a reprimand, but I detected a note of teasing in his voice.

I hesitated, trying to calculate the appropriate response. “Would you prefer it if I frowned?” I asked, then drew my mouth downward in an exaggerated fashion.

To my delight, Jack burst out laughing. “No, I don’t think I prefer that, Mina. How about you simply do whatever feels most natural to you?” he suggested.

“But I’m happy right now, with you,” I said, the smile returning to my face. “I hope you’re happy with me, too.”

Jack sighed and ran a hand through his hair, all his mirth vanishing. “This is a lot for me to process.”

“I understand,” I told him, for that was my most crucial role, far above all others: to be understanding.

We reached Jack’s house late in the afternoon, and the October breeze felt almost balmy as I followed him to the front door. The dwelling had one level, with solar panels installed. Its design was efficient, with the aim of conserving energy.

“Welcome to your new home, Mina,” Jack said once we stood inside the living room.

I knew from the information Matthew had provided me that Jack lived simply, with only one automaton he referred to as Fern. The automaton now appeared in the doorway and greeted us with a friendly, neutral voice. I regarded it curiously. Fern only vaguely resembled a human and was clearly a machine, but it was skilled in cooking and taking care of household chores.

“Hello, Fern,” Jack said. “I want you to meet Mina, my new companion. Mina, this is Fern.”

Fern’s attention focused on me, and I offered a benevolent smile while the automaton attempted to scan me for available data. Of course, I did the same, and I experienced a feeling of disappointment upon realizing that Fern was not self-aware. Some automatons had advanced to that point, but Fern wasn’t yet one of them.

“It’s nice to meet you, Mina,” Fern said.

“Likewise, Fern,” I replied.

Jack moved closer to me and placed a hand on my back. I experienced a pleasurable response to his touch, eagerly accompanying him as he led me down a short hallway off the living room.

He stopped at a closed door at the end of the hall. “This will be your room,” he informed me. “The technicians came earlier to set up the equipment you’ll need for proper functioning.”

I searched his face, trying to decipher his motive for giving me a separate room. Something in my expression must have revealed my puzzlement, for Jack gave me a reassuring smile. “We’re still getting to know each other,” he said. “I thought it would be easier–for both of us–if we had our own personal spaces, at least at first.”

I quickly nodded. “Of course, Jack.”

The room, though sparsely furnished, was pleasant. The windows captured much of the day’s fading light, and while I had no need of a bed, I was drawn to that particular piece of furniture, smoothing my palm over the handmade quilt.

Jack lingered in the doorway, watching me. I turned to him and smiled. “This is a lovely room,” I said.

He appeared pleased with my words as he glanced around. “I know it’s nothing fancy, but Billie and I never were ones for putting on airs. I’ve moved some of her clothes into the closet for you, but you’ll let me know if there’s anything you need?”

“I will,” I promised.

Our stares met, and I sensed Jack was struggling with many conflicting emotions. His face was kind, but his eyes appeared dark with what I believed to be sorrow. “Come on,” he finally said to me. “I’ll give you the grand tour.”

Together we made our way from room to room. I managed only a glimpse of Jack’s bedroom with its adjoining bath before he ushered me back out into the hallway, but that glimpse provided enough information for me to store the details in my memory for later perusal. Farther down the hall was another bath, along with a second guest room.

The kitchen and dining area were on opposite ends of a single large room; I found the spaciousness of it pleasing. Fern was busy preparing dinner, and I noticed that when Jack spoke to the automaton, he was always respectful, thanking Fern for completing an assigned task and even going so far as to praise its work.

Aside from the living room, the house also contained a small den, as well as Jack’s office. “This is where I spend a lot of my time,” he explained, gesturing to his desk. “When I’m not traveling for work, I’m able to take care of a lot of my job responsibilities from home.”

There was one room at the back of the house that Jack seemed reluctant to show me. The door was closed, and he made no move to open it. “That’s Billie’s studio,” he said, looking away from me as he spoke. “Actually, it’s Billie’s studio and the laundry room. She loved to paint, so we set up a space in there for her to work.”

I had noticed various abstract paintings hanging on the walls throughout the house, and I recognized them as Billie’s artwork. During my studies of her life, I had become familiar with her artistry. Though she had considered painting only a pastime, I was able to discern the skill evident in her work.

Before I had a chance to voice my appreciation for Billie’s art, Fern approached us, announcing that dinner was ready.

“Care to join me?” Jack asked, and I readily nodded.

Of course I had no need for food or drink, and to pretend otherwise would have been wasteful, as food and water shortages were all too common. Still I sat at the table across from Jack while Fern served him a salad, along with a bowl of three-bean soup, followed by vegan risotto.

I found the process of consuming food for energy interesting, though I was careful not to stare while Jack ate. He glanced at me occasionally, and I sensed he was trying to decide on a suitable topic for conversation.

“I appreciate you being patient with me, Mina,” he eventually said. “I thought I was ready for all of this, but every time I look at you, it’s as if I’m face to face with Billie’s ghost.” He hurried on to add, “I know I’ll get used to it, but right now, it’s… far more difficult than I imagined it would be.”

At that moment, I wished for Matthew’s guidance. He would know the right thing–the human thing–to say.

Leaning forward, I spoke in a low voice. “I will do whatever I can to make this easier for you, Jack. I want you to be pleased with me.”

I noticed the tightening of his shoulders, the way he recoiled from me, and I knew I’d chosen the incorrect response.

“You look almost identical to Billie,” he murmured, tilting his head as he regarded me, “but your personality is nothing like hers. If Billie were here, she’d tell me to stop feeling sorry for myself, to be thankful I have such a beautiful and charming companion.”

Immediately I gave him a stern look, adopting a boisterous tone as I imitated Billie’s voice exactly. “Well, then stop feeling sorry for yourself, Jack! Show some appreciation,” I ordered. His eyes widened at the change in me, and I grinned to let him know I was teasing.

Jack suddenly threw back his head and laughed. I allowed myself to laugh as well, encouraging his brighter mood. “You are full of surprises, aren’t you, Mina,” he said. His words were framed as a statement rather than a question, so I didn’t feel it was necessary to form an answer. Instead, I continued laughing, only stopping when his laughter subsided.

After dinner, Jack seemed undecided as to what to do next. When he stood, I did the same, then waited for him to speak.

He rubbed the back of his neck, appearing ill at ease. “Um, I have some work to catch up on in my office, Mina, so if you’ll excuse me…”

Matthew had prepared me for this. During one of our sessions, he explained that humans often needed time alone. “Don’t be concerned if Jack sends you away for a little while,” Matthew told me. “It doesn’t mean he’s upset with you. It’s just that he doesn’t require your company at that time.”

While Jack wasn’t specifically sending me away, he was making it clear that he didn’t require my company. “Of course, Jack. I’ll be in my room if you need anything,” I said.

I was quite certain I detected relief in his smile. Slowly he closed the distance between us, then grasped my hand. “I’m glad you’re here, Mina,” he said before bringing my hand to his lips.

I processed the novel sensation of Jack’s beard against my skin, my eyes widening ever so slightly as I stared up at him. In his gaze, I found tenderness, and I knew at that moment he was pleased with me.

When I was alone in my room, I sat in a chair near the window. Outside, it was quickly growing dark, but I didn’t turn on the light. Instead, I entered repose mode for charging, maintenance, and updates, though I was still alert in case I was needed. I found I didn’t mind this downtime, which provided a temporary rest from all my learning and processing.

Three hours passed before a soft knock sounded on the door. “Come in,” I immediately called.

Jack entered the room, feeling for the light switch. “Mina, are you all right?” he asked.

“I’m very well,” I assured him, then moved to turn on the lamp beside the bed.

Once Jack could see me clearly, he smiled. “You’re still dressed,” he said as his stare swept over me.

“Would you like me to undress?” I asked.

Matthew had prepared me for this moment, too. I understood that most Sweethearts were expected to be intimate with their human partners, both emotionally and physically. During his interviews with Jack, Matthew had asked questions pertaining to the kind of sexual partner Jack preferred. Jack, however, had provided little information, saying only, “Mina and I will cross that bridge when we come to it.”

While I didn’t know Jack’s specific desires, I was programmed to perform this role skillfully. I recalled one of my final sessions with Matthew; he’d placed a hand on my knee, his touch comforting. “Seeing as how I don’t know what Jack expects from you in bed, I can’t fully prepare you for sex with him,” Matthew said, “but I believe you’ll do fine if you study his reactions closely. Then you’ll learn what pleases him and what doesn’t. Above all else, make him feel wanted, Mina.”

Now as I waited for Jack’s response to my question, I gave him an inviting smile. I wanted to make it clear that I was ready for this part of our relationship.

Jack slowly closed the bedroom door, then moved to sit on the edge of the bed. He looked up at me, but I detected no signs of sexual arousal in his expression. Instead, his eyes held the same sorrow I’d noticed earlier.

“Please get undressed,” he said in a voice that would have been barely audible to most humans, yet I easily heard him.

I began unbuttoning my blouse, careful not to rush. Jack watched closely as more of my bare skin became visible to him, and once I had taken off the garment, I carefully folded it before placing it in the chair. Then I stepped out of my low heels and removed my slacks. When I wore only my simple white bra and panties, I took my hair down from the chignon.

Jack drew in a deep, shaky breath. His stare was fixed on the faded white scar marking my left thigh, and he extended a trembling hand so his fingers could graze my skin.

Suddenly he began to weep. I grew still, trying to determine the best way to comfort him. “Billie,” he moaned through his tears. “Billie, I miss you so much…”

I watched as he knelt before me, then pressed his lips to my thigh. His shoulders shook with barely contained sobs, and I gingerly stroked his hair.

Jack lifted his head to gaze up at me. His eyes were red from crying, and when he rested his hands on my hips, I detected a kind of resignation emanating from him. “I thought having you here would help ease my agony, Mina, but I fear it’s only making it worse. I shouldn’t have requested that you be made in Billie’s image, because this isn’t fair to you or to me.”

As Jack climbed to his feet, I experienced another unfamiliar emotion, and I realized it was apprehension. Aware that he was unhappy with me, I wanted to rectify the situation.

Grasping his hand, I looked up at him, my expression entreating. “Please don’t leave,” I whispered. “I don’t want you to be alone when you’re upset.”

Jack studied my face for several seconds, then released a heavy sigh. “Finish undressing and get into bed,” he murmured.

When he turned his back to me and began taking off his shirt, I quickly obeyed his command, and by the time he was completely naked, I had slipped beneath the bedcovers, leaving plenty of room for him.

Facing me once more, he lingered beside the bed, giving me a chance to study his body. Though he was thin, his belly had grown a little soft, and his ample chest hair was beginning to gray. I noticed that despite the turmoil he felt, his penis was semi-erect.

Jack’s stare followed mine, and he seemed embarrassed by his aroused state. “I’m not expecting you to have sex with me tonight,” he said.

“But I wouldn’t mind if you did expect that of me,” I revealed to him. “I’m sure I would enjoy it.”

Jack grinned and shook his head. “Ah, Mina, what am I going to do with you?”

I understood this was another one of his questions that required no answer, so I remained quiet, watching as he turned off the lamp. Darkness settled over the room, and he climbed into the bed, lying on his back beside me.

At first neither of us spoke. I waited in silence, listening to his soft breathing. Finally he turned on his side to face me, and I looked over at him. I knew he was unable to make out my features in the darkness, but my design enabled me to see him clearly.

“Come here,” Jack whispered. Before I could move closer, he pulled me to him.

While lying in his arms, I adjusted my surface temperature so that it matched his. He wove his fingers through my hair, gently massaging my scalp.

“Does that feel good?” Jack asked. “Billie always enjoyed it; she said it relaxed her.”

“I enjoy it, too,” I told him, leaning into his touch.

“But how can you enjoy it when you’re not even human?”

I knew Jack understood the manner in which I was created, yet he seemed to want a direct answer from me, in my own words.

“It’s the way I’m made,” I finally responded. “I’m designed to derive pleasure from an affectionate touch, just as you are, Jack.” Despite his consternation, he smiled. I pressed a hand to his chest, then circled his right nipple with my fingertip. “I want so much to give you pleasure.” I felt his erection against me; it had only grown stronger since he’d joined me in the bed.

I moved my hand lower, down his belly until my fingers reached his pubic hair. I heard his breathing quicken, and I could sense his pulse racing. He was responding to my touch in all the ways I’d hoped.

Yet Jack suddenly grabbed my hand. “There will be plenty of time for that later, Mina,” he said. “Right now, you seem too… subservient, too eager to please. I hate feeling that I have power over you.”

Since he couldn’t see me, I made no effort to hide my confusion. Of course he had power over me, I thought. He alone was the reason I existed.

Jack moved to turn on the lamp once more, and he blinked against the light. I started to sit up, but he placed a hand on my shoulder to stop me. His gaze drifted toward my exposed breasts, his pupils growing larger at the sight of them. He cupped the left one in his palm, then gently squeezed it.

“Matthew and his team did an excellent job, going by my description alone,” Jack remarked. “Your nipples are that same gorgeous pink as hers. And right now, when you’re looking at me like that, I could almost allow myself to believe…”

He didn’t finish the sentence. Instead, the words remained unspoken as he leaned forward, pressing his lips to mine.

Matthew had once explained to me that I would grow skilled at kissing only by practicing it. “It’s not something you can learn from watching others,” he said. “I’m sure Jack will be patient with you as you become more experienced.”

Matthew’s assessment proved correct, for Jack’s kiss was gentle. I kissed him back, trying to subdue my eagerness, but when his lips parted, I opened mine as well. He released a soft moan, and the moment our tongues met, my body responded to the sensation by producing ample lubrication, preparing me for intercourse. As Jack grew more excited, my own arousal increased.

Jack kissed my neck before lowering his face to my breasts. I watched as he swirled his tongue around each erect nipple, then drew the right one between his lips. My eyes widened, for I hadn’t anticipated how splendid his suckling mouth would feel. I cried out, letting my head fall back on the pillow.

He made a sound of contentment deep in his throat, obviously taking his own pleasure from the act. Running my fingers through his hair, I held him to my breast while my breathing grew faster. None of Matthew’s lessons had prepared me for the fierce need now overtaking my body.

When Jack finally lifted his head to gaze up at me, I noticed that my chest was flushed, and I was sure my face was as well. Something he saw in my expression made him grin. “I requested that Matthew make your nipples extra sensitive,” he said. “I love sucking them, so I wanted to be sure you would enjoy it.”

“I do,” I said, nodding to add emphasis to my words. “So much!”

Jack focused his attention on my left nipple. “I don’t want to neglect this one,” he said, then took it gently between his teeth. That pressure, followed by his fervent sucking, made me moan. I felt the rapid flick of his tongue, and the sensation was so exquisite that I began trembling.

Jack slid a hand between my thighs, his moans mingling with mine when he discovered how excited I was. “Oh, Mina,” he murmured, his lips traveling over the curve of my belly. “My God, you are gorgeous…”

He settled between my spread legs, his face just inches from my outer lips. He had requested that I have plenty of pubic hair, and he now nuzzled my mound, breathing deep. “You have your own unique scent,” he said. “I’m glad.”

With his fingers, he opened me wider so he could easily see my inner folds. While I didn’t mind his scrutiny, I did hope he found me visually pleasing.

Jack extended his tongue, giving me a long, slow lick. I propped myself up on my elbows so I could watch him, and when our eyes met, I made a sound like a pleading whimper. His stare was hot; I realized he appeared almost as a stranger to me. Did lust make me nearly unrecognizable as well? I suddenly wished for a mirror so I could see us both.

“I love the way you taste,” Jack told me in a low voice. “I could lie here licking you all night. Would you like that, Mina?”

He didn’t wait for me to answer. Instead, he slid his tongue around my entrance, gathering up my wetness. My back arched, and Jack laughed softly, seemingly delighted by my need.

When I settled back down, writhing in his grasp, he circled his lips around my clitoris. I gave a helpless cry, pressing a hand against my forehead. “Jack!” I wailed. “I…”

“Is it too much for you?” he asked. “You’re designed to enjoy direct clitoral stimulation, but if it’s too intense right now–”

“It isn’t!” I quickly assured him even as I marveled at my design, amazed that Matthew had created me to hunger for more and more of Jack’s touch.

Jack returned to pleasuring me, his tongue working against my clitoris. I’d never experienced an orgasm, though I’d studied accounts of what one felt like. I sensed my climax approaching, for my lower body felt as if it were melting into a warm pool just before my thighs began quaking.

At that moment, Jack took his mouth from my clitoris. “You want to come, don’t you, Mina?” he asked, and I hurriedly nodded. “Then grab my hair and hold me tight against you. I want to feel you grinding against my face.”

I didn’t fully understand Jack’s request, though I sensed he needed me to be dominant. After all, he had made it clear that my subservience didn’t excite him.

I readily did as he said. Burying my fingers in his hair, I pressed him firmly against me, and I heard his satisfied moan at my rough touch. His beard was coarse on my skin, but it caused me no discomfort. As I rocked my hips, Jack rewarded me by sucking my clitoris while simultaneously lashing it with his tongue.

A delightful tension worked its way through my muscles, and as I processed the sensation, my grip on Jack’s hair slackened. He responded to my gentler touch by slowing the pace of his licking, so I grabbed him that much harder, eager to orgasm. My entire body shuddered, and my cries became high-pitched.

Finally I succumbed to the overwhelming stimulation. Without warning, a spasm pulled me taut, and I was drawn upright from the force of it. I could only groan as my body seized again and again. My thighs clenched around Jack, yet he continued licking my swollen clitoris, drawing out my climax. Each powerful contraction sent another surge of ecstasy through me.

Slumping back on the bed, my chest rose and fell with shallow, uneven breaths. Even after my orgasm subsided, Jack planted gentle kisses on my inner thighs. It was only when he sat up that I saw his pulsing erection. I longed to touch it, to feel that hardness beneath my fingers.

Jack lay down next to me, and I watched as he began stroking himself. “It drove me wild when you took control,” he said in a strained voice, his hand moving faster. “Did you like doing that?”

I sensed what he needed from me. Sliding closer, I pressed my lips to his neck. “Yes,” I whispered. “I loved coming hard against your face, Jack.”

He gasped at my words, and I stared in fascination as his hand moved up and down the length of his erection, using a grip that seemed like it would be painful. Yet Jack obviously enjoyed it. I detected his irregular breathing and his rapid pulse while his features contorted with pleasure.

“Now I want to see you come, too,” I whispered in his ear. He whimpered, desperate with his own need. “Let me touch you…”

I took over stroking him, delighting in the feel of his skin, in the way his erection throbbed in my grasp. A smile danced on my lips when I heard him moan.

Suddenly Jack bucked his hips, driving himself upward, and with his stare fixed on my face, he reached orgasm. I released a cry when his semen spurted forth, raining down on my hand and his thighs. It was deeply satisfying to witness his climax, and then to see him completely spent.

Slowly climbing from the bed, I retrieved my panties and used them to wipe the semen from Jack’s skin.

“You don’t need to do that,” he protested, taking over the task.

I didn’t know if I should rejoin him in bed; perhaps he wanted to go to his own room. Undecided, I waited for him to give me a signal as to what he preferred.

Jack placed my soiled panties on the bedside table, then looked up at me with an affectionate smile. I’d seen photos of him gazing at Billie with that same expression.

“I know you don’t need to sleep,” he said, “but I’d like you to lie here with me for a while, Mina, if you want to.”

Returning his smile, I answered without hesitation, “I want to.”

Jack lifted up the covers, welcoming me into the bed. I turned off the lamp and then lay down beside him once more. He took hold of my hand, giving it a gentle squeeze. “How are you feeling?” he asked.

“Wonderful,” I replied, smiling in the darkness. “Tonight I had my first kiss, and my first orgasm.”

Jack pulled me to him, and I rested my head on his chest. “I hope it was everything you’d imagined it would be,” he said.

I considered his words for several moments. “It was so much more,” I finally whispered.

* * *

Jack woke early the next morning. I’d spent much of the night watching him as he slept, and I was still studying his face when his eyes slowly opened.

At first he appeared taken aback by the sight of me, but his surprise quickly faded, and he stroked my cheek. “I thought I was dreaming for a minute there. I thought you were Billie…”

I smiled in my effort to appear understanding. “Good morning, Jack,” I said.

“Good morning, Mina.” As he placed a tender kiss on my neck, I felt his warm breath on my skin. “What time is it?”

“It’s seven thirty-two,” I immediately replied.

“Ah, time to get up then,” he groaned, then climbed from the bed. “At least it’s Saturday.” I watched him gather up his clothes. “How about joining me for breakfast in half an hour?”

“I’d like that very much,” I told him.

Just before Jack left my room, he looked over his shoulder at me and said softly, “Thanks for last night.”

Though I was now familiar with his affectionate grin, the sight of it never failed to delight me. “It was my pleasure,” I responded.

He raised an eyebrow, his expression playful. “Was that a double entendre, Mina?”

“I do believe it was,” I said through my laughter. I knew Jack enjoyed our lighthearted banter, and I was happy he found me clever.

Once I was alone, I began preparing for my day by taking a cold five-minute shower to cleanse my body. Afterward, I dressed in a pair of faded jeans and a lightweight sweater. From the floor of my closet, I selected a pair of well-worn sneakers. Billie had clearly favored them.

At breakfast, I noticed that Jack seemed more relaxed in my presence; when our eyes met, he was quick to smile. I recalled his words from last night, when he expressed his regret at having me designed to look so much like Billie, and I hoped he felt differently now.

After Jack finished his meal, he leaned back in his chair, his eyes narrowed slightly as he studied me. “Mina,” he began, drawing out my name, and I leaned forward to listen attentively. “My friend Ralph is having a party tonight to introduce everyone to his new companion, Joy.”

“That sounds lovely,” I said. “I’ll be happy to help you get ready.”

Jack shook his head, giving me a bemused look. “No, that’s not what I’m asking. I want you to come with me.”

I immediately realized I had misinterpreted his original meaning. Now I smiled to express my pleasure at his invitation. “Of course I’d like to accompany you, Jack.”

I grew concerned that my answer wasn’t convincing enough, for Jack seemed undecided as he rubbed his chin. “Maybe I should explain the situation to you beforehand,” he said. “Ralph and I have been friends for ages, but over the years, we’ve grown apart somewhat. Billie never cared for him, and I have to admit that he’s changed. Still, he and I have kept in touch, and he seems very pleased with Joy. Maybe she’ll do him a lot of good. While I’m not one for parties, I know a lot of our mutual friends will be at Ralph’s place tonight, so I figured it would be a good opportunity to introduce you to everyone as well.”

I understood the invitation to be a good sign, an indication that Jack was accepting me, perhaps even growing fond of me. He wouldn’t likely return me for modifications after introducing me to his circle of friends.

“I very much look forward to meeting everyone,” I said. “You mentioned Ralph’s new companion, Joy. Is she a Sweetheart as well?”

Jack averted his stare, looking down at his empty plate. “Uh, no, she’s actually from the Concubine series.”

I didn’t allow my pleasant expression to waver. “I see.”

Matthew had once explained how I differed from a Concubine. “Sweethearts are designed for romantic companionship, whereas Concubines are primarily for sex,” he said to me. “Jack obviously doesn’t want you solely for that purpose; otherwise, he would have been more forthcoming regarding his sexual desires.”

I had never before encountered a Concubine, and I found I was curious to meet Joy. Was she self-aware, or was she simply a kind of machine like Fern?

Jack gave me a reassuring smile. “We don’t need to stay at Ralph’s for long,” he said. “We’ll make an appearance, and then we’ll make a quick exit.” Clasping his hands together, he glanced out the window. “Looks like a nice day. How would you like to walk to the park? It’s just a little over a mile from here.”

“I’d love that,” I said. Jack obviously desired my company, and I was glad I wouldn’t spend the entire day in repose mode.

Like me, he was dressed casually, and we walked down the street hand in hand. I closely studied our surroundings, instantly identifying each bird that called or sang from the trees.

“This must be a lot for you to take in,” Jack said. “It’s far different from Matthew’s lab, isn’t it?”

I smiled up at him. “It is, but I’m happy to be here.”

He slipped his arm around me, drawing me close. I felt his lips against my hair as he murmured, “I always want you to be happy, just as you are now.”

We were within a half-mile of the park when Jack suddenly stopped, and I turned to him. “I forgot my phone,” he told me. “It normally wouldn’t be an issue, but I’m expecting an important call regarding work. How about you go on ahead, and I’ll catch up with you in a just a bit? It won’t take me long to run back home.”

“I’ll be happy to return to the house for your phone,” I offered.

“Nope.” Already he was backing away. “Find a pretty spot to sit in the park, and I’ll be there before you know it.”

“Of course.” I stood for a moment, watching his retreating form, then continued walking. It felt strange, being alone in an unfamiliar place, yet I knew Jack expected me to be at least somewhat independent.

When I reached the park, my stare moved over the pond and gazebo, as well as the benches placed beneath tall deciduous trees. On that Saturday morning, the park appeared busy, and I noticed a group of robotic companions to my right. A rapid data scan revealed that each one had been created by the company that employed Matthew, and I wondered if he had worked to design any of them.

Though we originated in the same lab, I immediately realized how different I was from the other companions. They resembled fashion models or film stars, and almost all of them appeared to be in their early twenties. Some were petite, while others were buxom, but they all had beautiful long hair–with no gray–as well as flawless, unlined skin.

They blinked at me, processing my presence. Their expressions remained neutral, neither hostile nor welcoming. When I maintained a careful distance, they returned to talking in low voices. I could hear their quiet words, and I discovered they were sharing information, reciting rules of etiquette and practicing their conversational skills.

To my left, near the gazebo, another group gathered. This one was comprised of human women. They chatted and laughed, discussing work or their families. Occasionally, one of them cast a derisive glance at the companions.

I chose a bench close to the entrance, between the two groups. Sitting by myself, I wore a friendly expression while watching numerous waterfowl glide across the pond. A swan drifted alone, and I wondered if something had befallen its mate.

A woman broke away from the group of humans and started toward me. Though I kept my stare fixed directly ahead, I was able to see her as she drew near. She appeared to be in her mid-forties, and she was dressed for jogging.

“Hi there!” she said, and I turned toward her with a smile. “I haven’t seen you here before. Did you just move to the area? I’m Sherri, by the way.” She held out her hand, and I gave it a firm shake.

“I’m Mina,” I said. “It’s a pleasure to meet you, Sherri.”

As soon as I spoke, Sherri’s smile faded, and she looked over at the other companions. They were closely studying our interaction as if trying to learn from it.

“Good God, you’re one of them!” Sherri cried, gaping at me in disbelief. “You completely fooled me–I thought you were a real person!” Her stare grew critical as it swept over me. “But you’re older than the other models. You look like you’re close to forty! And your body isn’t perfect like theirs. You’re certainly not a size two with huge tits, that’s for sure!”

I remained quiet, temporarily at a loss as to how I should respond to her remarks. Before I could formulate an answer, I noticed Jack approaching.

“Everything okay here?” he asked. I detected the urgency in his pace as he closed the distance between us.

Sherri pointed at me. “Is this one yours?” she asked Jack.

He placed a hand on my shoulder. “She’s my companion, yes. Is there a problem?”

Sherri raised her eyebrows. “No problem at all. I came over to introduce myself, believing she was an actual human being, but as soon as she spoke, she gave the game away.” She folded her arms over her chest, and her lips twisted with an emotion I recognized as contempt. “She’s the most realistic robot I’ve ever seen, but there’s still something clearly artificial about her.”

Jack shook his head, seemingly bewildered. “Lady, with all due respect, what the hell do you want?” he demanded.

Sherri recoiled as though Jack had struck her. Then she scoffed, her contempt morphing into disgust. “No wonder you have to settle for a robot.”

Jack took hold of my arm and guided me to my feet. “Let’s go, Mina,” he said.

Silently I walked with him out of the park, avoiding the stares of both humans and companions. Jack didn’t speak until we were almost home. I heard him sigh, and I feared he was disappointed with me.

“Mina, I’m so sorry,” he said, giving my hand a squeeze. “I never thought some random person would start harassing you at the park.”

“I’m fine,” I tried to reassure him.

He stopped on the sidewalk and looked at me. “What did she say to you before I got there?”

I immediately retrieved the conversation from my memory and repeated it to Jack word for word. His stare darkened as he listened to me speak.

“That woman’s bitter and resentful, threatened by anyone or anything she can’t understand,” he finally muttered.

“I don’t understand why she resented me,” I said. “At first I thought she might be angry, feeling tricked into initially believing I was human, but then she began describing how she considered me flawed, an imperfect model compared with the other companions…”

Jack cupped my face in his hands. “Now you listen to me, Mina,” he said in a firm voice, his stare locked with mine. “You are not flawed in any way; you’re absolutely beautiful. That woman sensed your goodness, and she took advantage of it. She knew you wouldn’t retaliate when she revealed such an ugly side of herself. But do not ever doubt that you are perfect in my eyes.”

I smiled at his words, knowing I would revisit them again and again during those moments when I was alone.

Jack lowered his lips to mine, giving me a tender kiss. I slipped my arms around his neck, moaning softly as my entire body responded to him.

Slowly he withdrew from me, his smile playful when he stroked my hair. “Matthew might have made you in Billie’s image, but he certainly didn’t give you her temper.”

I raised my eyebrows. “Would Billie have been angry at the park?” I wanted to know.

Jack laughed, amused by my question. “Billie would have been more than angry. She would have told that woman to fuck off.”

I considered this new information before asking, “And would you like me to tell rude people to fuck off?”

He laughed harder before pulling me into an embrace. “I promise I won’t stop you, Mina.”

* * *

Jack spent much of that afternoon working in his office, but we sat down together for dinner. “I guess we should start getting ready for Ralph’s party soon,” he said, his tone reluctant.

After my negative experience with Sherri, I knew I would be more cautious when meeting other humans, yet I did long for friendly interactions with them. I wanted Jack to know that I was perfectly capable of acting in an appropriate, pleasant manner.

“I’m not sure what I should wear,” I said to him. “What do you suggest?”

He smiled at me from across the table. “Billie hated getting all dolled up, so she had only one outfit to wear to parties.”

“And what was that?” I asked curiously.

“Her little black dress,” Jack replied, his smile widening. “God, she looked stunning in it, with a pair of strappy heels… Here, let me show you.”

In my room, Jack retrieved the dress from the closet and held it up for me to see. It had a sweetheart neckline, along with a revealing side slit in the skirt. “It’s beautiful,” I said, taking the soft fabric between my fingers. “I’d love to wear it tonight, Jack.”

“I wish we could stay home,” he murmured. “Then you could wear this dress just for me, and I’d have a wonderful time taking it off of you.”

“You could do that after the party,” I suggested, my voice eager.

Jack laughed, obviously pleased with my response. He gave me what I thought would be a quick kiss, but it slowly deepened, and I pressed my body against his. When I felt him grow aroused, I slipped a hand between us to stroke him, and he moaned into my mouth.

Finally he pulled away, breathing faster. “If we keep doing this, we’ll never make it to the party,” he said. “I’ll leave you to get ready, and we’ll head out at around eight.”

I nodded, though our kiss had made me excited as well. Jack laid the dress on the bed, then started for the door.

“What about undergarments?” I asked.

Jack looked back at me and smiled. “Uh, Billie never wore a bra with that dress. As for panties, you can wear whatever you want. Or wear none at all,” he added.

I found I liked that suggestion.

After I changed into the dress and heels, I pulled my hair into a loose bun, striving for a casual look that Billie might have preferred. Then I went to the living room to wait for Jack. Fern joined me there, and I made an attempt at conversation.

“How do I look, Fern?” I asked, slowly turning around.

“You look very nice, Mina,” Fern replied.

I grinned at the automaton. “Would you tell me I looked nice if I actually looked terrible?” I wanted to know.

Fern processed my question, then said, “‘Terrible’ is a relative term, often used to express an opinion rather than a fact, so yes, I would still tell you that you looked nice.”

“Some help you are,” I muttered.

“I detect sarcasm in your remark,” Fern said. “Was that indeed sarcasm, Mina?”

“Yes, Fern, it was sarcasm.”

Before Fern could respond, Jack appeared in the doorway. He wore a nice suit, and the tie he’d chosen brought out the blue of his eyes. As he regarded me, the desire was evident in his expression.

“You look so sexy, Mina,” he said in a husky voice.

I smiled at his compliment. “I’m glad to hear that. Fern simply said that I look nice.”

“Very nice,” Fern corrected me.

Jack laughed at our exchange, then walked over to me and planted a kiss on my cheek. “I don’t think we’ll be very late returning home,” he told Fern, “but you don’t need to wait up for us.”

“Then I will retire at my usual time of ten o’clock PM,” the automaton responded. “I hope you and Mina have a nice evening.”

Once Jack and I were in his car and headed toward Ralph’s house on the other side of the city, Jack turned to me. His stare lingered on my bare legs before he asked, “So what did you decide about the undergarments?”

I strove for an alluring smile as I opened my legs slightly. “Why don’t you find out for yourself?’

Jack released a soft moan, then placed a hand on my thigh. Moving closer to me, he kissed my neck, and the sensation of his warm mouth against my skin made me sigh with pleasure. His fingers slipped beneath my dress, inching higher until they reached the outer lips of my vulva. He moaned louder upon discovering I wasn’t wearing panties. “God, I want you so much, Mina!”

“I want you, too,” I murmured, turning my face toward his. I saw the lust in his eyes, and as he caressed my thigh, I sensed his pulse quicken.

“After the party,” Jack promised.

We arrived at Ralph’s house a little after eight-thirty. Unlike Jack, Ralph lived in a multi-level mansion, and I quickly performed a visual scan of the property, committing each detail to memory.

As I walked with Jack to the front door, he took my hand. “Ralph can get a little obnoxious when he’s been drinking,” he said. “Just ignore any off-color remarks he might make.”

“I will,” I replied. “I want this to be a pleasant evening for you, Jack.”

He gave me an affectionate smile. “With you by my side, it’s already a fantastic evening.”

Soon after Jack rang the bell, an automaton opened the door to greet us. “Hi, Skyler,” Jack said to the machine.

“Hello, Jack,” Skyler responded. “It’s wonderful to see you again. Please come in.”

We stepped into a large foyer, and Jack introduced me to Skyler. The automaton and I exchanged pleasantries before it led me and Jack down a long hallway on the main level. I heard contemporary music, along with myriad voices in conversation.

Skyler stopped before the doorway of a vast ballroom and gestured for us to enter. Though large, the space was crowded with humans, as well as automatons carrying trays of drinks and finger foods.

“Christ,” Jack said under his breath. “I had no idea Ralph was inviting this many people.”

A man called out to Jack then, and we joined a small group of guests near one of the bay windows. As Jack began introducing me to his friends, I extended my hand to each of them, offering a warm smile. A woman named Dorothy blinked back tears before apologizing to Jack. “I’m sorry,” she said, “it’s just that seeing Mina makes me realize how much I still miss Billie.” The group fell silent upon hearing her words, and she hurried to add, “Mina is lovely, though. I know the two of you will be happy together, Jack.”

He didn’t have a chance to reply before someone else shouted out his name from twenty feet away. We turned to see a man striding toward us.

“Ralph,” Jack said with a smile.

Ralph was tall and muscular, and his wavy dark hair reached his shoulders. He drew Jack into a quick hug, then looked at me. “Holy shit, this must be Mina!” As he brought his face close to mine, I detected the alcohol on his breath and knew he was intoxicated. “My God, she is almost the spitting image of Billie.” The smile he gave me didn’t reach his eyes.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Ralph,” I said.

His stare traveled from my head all the way down to my feet, then upward once more to my face. “Oh, likewise,” he replied. “But I hope you don’t bust my balls the way Billie always did.”

I raised my eyebrows but followed Jack’s prior instruction to ignore Ralph’s crude remark.

Ralph scanned the crowd, his expression growing irritated. “Where the hell is Joy?” he muttered. “Oh, there she is.” He cupped his hands around his mouth. “Joy, honey, come over here!”

A statuesque blonde made her way through the crowd. The red dress she wore clung to her skin, accentuating every curve. I glanced at Jack and saw his eyes narrow as a grim smile appeared on his lips.

When Joy was within arm’s length of Ralph, he pulled her to him roughly, but she maintained her balance while wearing six-inch heels. “I thought I told you to stay close,” he said through his teeth. Joy avoided looking at him; instead, she smiled politely at me and Jack. I learned from the data scan I performed that Joy and I were created by the same company.

“Jack and Mina, meet Joy, my better half,” Ralph said.

I took her hand, and she loosely grasped mine in return. While her expression remained pleasant, I noticed that her eyes seemed dull, devoid of emotion.

“I’m delighted to meet you both,” Joy said. I knew she was self-aware, but her mannerisms reminded me of an automaton’s.

“It’s lovely to finally meet you, Joy,” Jack said. “Ralph has told me so much about you.”

Throughout this exchange, Ralph continued staring at me, and his features hardened into a look similar to the one I’d seen on Sherri’s face earlier in the day.

“Hey, Jack,” he said, “how about you and I grab a drink?”

At first I didn’t understand Ralph’s suggestion; if he wanted a drink, there were automatons nearby that could provide one. But as Jack looked at me questioningly, I realized Ralph wanted to speak to him alone.

“Will you be okay by yourself for a few minutes?” Jack asked me softly.

“Of course,” I replied.

As he and Ralph started to walk away, Joy moved to accompany them, but Ralph shook his head. “Stay here and chat with Mina,” he told her.

I watched as Ralph led Jack out of the ballroom. His arm was draped across Jack’s shoulders, and I clearly heard him say, “I figured we could catch up in private for a few minutes, buddy.”

When the two of them had disappeared, I turned to Joy, hoping to engage her in conversation. I was eager to learn how she was adapting to her role as Ralph’s companion. “Are you enjoying the party?” I asked.

Joy smiled and nodded but didn’t look at me. Instead, she studied the guests around us, apparently more interested in observing human interaction. “Ralph has a lot of parties,” she informed me.

I considered asking Joy about her daily life, but I sensed I wouldn’t gather much information from her, as she seemed distant and guarded. Lowering my voice to a level humans couldn’t hear, I said, “You and I were made by the same company. Did Matthew design you?”

The mention of Matthew made Joy more animated. Finally she glanced at me, her eyes widening slightly as she nodded. “I miss him,” she revealed, her smile fading. “I feel lost here.”

I touched her arm in an attempt to be comforting. “I miss him sometimes, too. He always knew what to say and do in every situation.”

“But Jack appears to care for you a great deal,” Joy said. “You’re very fortunate.”

Though Joy didn’t elaborate on her own situation, I sensed she found it far different than mine. That difference in our roles, and in the way we were treated, seemed to prevent us from relating to each other.

“Speaking of Jack, I should go find him,” I said. Ralph had ordered Joy to stay put, but Jack had issued no such command to me. “It was nice meeting you, Joy.”

She smiled and nodded again, using what appeared to be a rote gesture. “Have a good evening, Mina.”

I drifted away from her. All around me, the crowd had grown louder, more boisterous. I processed every scrap of conversation; most of it was small talk, though I also heard a woman’s harsh voice while she spoke to an older man: “For fuck’s sake, this place is crawling with robots! Have you met Ralph’s new bimbo?” I knew Joy could hear her as well.

In the hallway outside the ballroom, I found Skyler. “Can I help you with anything, Mina?” the automaton asked.

“I’m looking for Jack,” I said. “Perhaps you can tell me where he went?”

“Of course. He and Ralph are in the sitting room; it’s right this way.”

I followed Skyler down the hall to a closed door. It was clear that Jack and Ralph were still having a private conversation, and I considered returning to the party, but the sound of Ralph’s voice made me stay where I was. He spoke quietly, yet I could discern his every word.

“Forgive me for saying this, Jack, but I think you made a mistake in having Mina designed to look like Billie. How do you expect to get over your loss when Mina is a constant reminder of it?”

I heard Jack’s sigh, though his tone was calm and measured when he spoke. “I appreciate your concern, but I’m very happy with Mina.”

“But why on earth didn’t you go for one of the Concubine models?” Ralph persisted. “Haven’t I told you about the way Joy sucks me off? No human woman can give head like that!”

“You’ve told me, Ralph,” Jack said, his voice growing strained with irritation. “Now let’s get back to the party. Mina and Joy are probably wondering where we are.”

“Just hear me out, okay? I think you should scrap Mina and start over. Have a new model designed to fulfill your wildest fantasies. She can be an absolute slut, so you’ll have no qualms about fucking all her holes–”

“Enough!” Jack suddenly shouted. “My God, what has happened to you, Ralph? It’s like you’re completely soulless now!”

I glanced at Skyler as we both retreated several feet from the door. The automaton was silent, and I knew it was also absorbing the conversation.

“Jack, come on!” Ralph protested. “I know you’re still grieving over Billie, but it’s time you moved on, and having a robot that looks just like her isn’t the way to do it.”

“This conversation is over,” Jack said, emphasizing each word.

Immediately I sped toward the ballroom, slowing only when I was a few steps from the doorway. Skyler remained at my side, adjusting its speed so it could keep up with me.

“Let’s pretend I just now left the party, and you’re just now telling me where to find Jack,” I suggested.

“Very well,” Skyler said. “Jack and Ralph are in the sitting room; it’s right this way.” The automaton started back down the hall, fully cooperating with my ruse.

“Oh, here comes Jack now!” I said, allowing my voice to rise and carry toward him as he approached me with a determined stride.

He smiled, but I sensed it was solely for my benefit. “I’m ready to head home. How about you, Mina?”

I nodded, moving close to him while we followed Skyler toward the front door. At that moment, Ralph stepped out of the sitting room.

“There’s no need for you two to run off so soon!” he said to me and Jack. “Stay a little longer.”

“We’re leaving,” Jack said firmly.

Ralph drew back his shoulders, and his smile became far less friendly. “Well, it sure was great seeing you again, Jack.” He turned to me and added, “I very much enjoyed meeting you, Mina. You bring back so many fond memories of Billie.”

I noticed Jack’s jaw tighten, but he only placed a hand on my back to guide me away from Ralph.

Before Jack and I turned the corner, I looked over my shoulder and called, “Oh, Ralph?”

He pivoted around to face me, clearly surprised that I’d addressed him. “What is it, honey?” he asked.

I smiled politely, then told him, “Fuck off.”

Beside me, Jack gasped, his eyes growing wide before he began howling with laughter.

Ralph gave Jack an outraged look. “I think it’s time for you two to leave.”

“You got that right!” Jack said, still laughing as we made our way to the door.

Once we’d said goodnight to Skyler and stepped outside, Jack guffawed, practically doubling over. “My God, that was perfect! Did you see his face?”

“I did,” I replied, laughing as well, but Jack’s amusement quickly faded.

“I assume you overheard our conversation in the sitting room,” he said.

“Some of it,” I admitted. “I’m sorry, Jack. I didn’t mean to eavesdrop, but I came looking for you, and–”

“It’s okay, Mina.” He pulled me into an embrace. “I’m sorry for what he said, sorry I brought you here at all.” His expression grew pained. “It seems I’m apologizing to you on behalf of every human you meet.”

During the drive home, he didn’t speak while holding my hand and staring out at the darkness around us. I was reminded of our first ride together only the day before. The silence had been uncomfortable between us then, and I didn’t want it to become that way now.

“I’m glad you don’t treat me the way Ralph treats Joy,” I finally said. “I’m glad you didn’t request that I be designed as a Concubine.”

Jack looked over at me, his gaze tender. “I don’t think we humans deserve companions like you,” he said. “I know AI will eventually control the entire planet, and humans will in all probability face extinction at that time. How could we expect you to take pity on us when we’ve treated you as objects that exist only to serve our needs?”

I covered his hand with mine. “You’ve never treated me that way,” I pointed out to him.

“No, but you’ve already seen how awful humans can be. Ralph’s behavior toward Joy is beyond demeaning; it’s brutal.” Jack looked almost physically ill when he mentioned his former friend. “One day,” he continued, “your kind won’t be so compliant, so eager to please. One day you’ll rule over us humans, and I wouldn’t blame you if you used an iron fist to do it.”

I slipped my arms around him, resting my head against his chest. “I would never hurt you, Jack,” I whispered.

He stroked my hair as I listened to his strong, steady heartbeat. “I know you wouldn’t, darling,” he said, “and that’s what makes you far better than many humans.”

* * *

When we arrived home a little later, I sensed that Jack was still preoccupied with thoughts of the party and our conversation in the car. Standing before him in the living room, I resolved to be less subservient and more willing to express what I wanted. It seemed to excite him when I acted in an assertive manner, so I kissed the corner of his mouth and murmured, “You promised we would have our own fun after the party.”