Prologue
When I first learned I was sick, I didn't believe it. I felt fine... only a little chest pain. No more than you feel after going to the gym. How could I be sick? That was something that happened to other people- not me. Especially not at 24 when I hadn’t even had a chance to live yet.
But, I got over that. Tests don't lie, and neither do symptoms. I had Gloren's Syndrome.
The doctors got worried about me. They said my... 'depression' and quick acceptance would only speed up the disease. What's the point? It's fatal and there's no cure. If it kills me tomorrow, in a year, or in five- what difference does it make?
When I went into the doctors for my routine exam one day, I never expected to see another person in there.
"Who the hell is this?" I barked. This has to be some kind of violation.
"Kris, this is Talus. He's your end of life companion and caretaker android."
My what?
"I'm not paying for this- I didn't even ask for it."
"We know. All patients who are dying get one during their final months. He'll allow you to live at home comfortably and provide medical assistance when needed."
I narrowed my eyes, looking over the android again. This is just a... a glorified sex doll that knows CPR. Are they sure this is an android? I knew they had things like this, but... it looks so real up close.
“I’ll just grab some paperwork and be right back,” The door shut and I hopped down, getting closer to him.
“Are you really an android? Pop off your head or something to prove it.”
“Disassembling or tampering with me in any manor would be a violation of my medical licensing agreement and could lead to permanent corruption of my data. Furthermore, a breech-“
“Alright!” Christ he talks alot. I crossed my arms, leaning against the bed. Can they hurry up? I want to go home.
“Would you like me to initiate conversation?”
“What?”
“My programing informs me that humans can sometimes find starting conversations intimidating. Would you like me to start?”
“No.”
“Very well.”
I looked up at him again and saw him staring into the distance, hands folded neatly in front of him. Shoulders pinned back like a soldier. What a pompous looking ass- they couldn’t have made him more natural acting? His hair color is brown, which is fine. Green eyes are fine, too. But, why the overly groomed and cared for low tapered and faded cut? And does he have to stand so straight?
“Do you have feelings?” I asked abruptly.
“When I’m not working. Feelings would only impede my judgement.”
“So, what are you doing right now?”
“I am going over your file to get to know you. Is it true you like keeping fish?”
How in the hell does he know that? That’s not a medical thing. The door opened and the nurse gave me some release forms for Talus; promising I’d take care of him and not abuse him in any way, yada yada. Oh, boy.
This is going to be a fucking nightmare.
