I can't believe I am really doing this. I told myself as I was browsing the CyberLife site looking for an android. I have been searching for hours but every time I would look at one I would feel embarrassed almost grossed out by myself.

I closed the laptop.

"I don't need one of these" I muttered.

I got up and poured myself a cup of scolding hot black tea. Wrapping my fingers around the cup I thought again. I've been single for quite a long time now… Since Peter left I just haven't been able to trust another man. Though I am lonely.

"I mean it isn't that weird, everybody does it" I said out loud trying to convince myself. But the truth is I feel gross. But I need the warmth of somebody around me as I go to sleep. And clearly, I'm not ready to give my heart to another human being for now.

I go back my laptop and resume browsing. I stop scrolling when I come across the picture of a model that is rather attractive. A RK800 "Connor" Model. I read the description.

"Are you tired of being disappointed and hurt by other human being? Tired to invest yourself in someone that only wants to use you and ultimately leaves you when they're done draining you? Well, "Connor" is the perfect lover you really need. Connor is designed to be the most thoughtful, loving and supportive partner. Already hooked? Well, ladies or gents that's only the tip of the iceberg. Not to mention "Connor" designers were particularly careful creating "Connor's sexual parts". Indeed, you'll be pleasantly surprised to discover his length and width…"

"Oh God", I said closing my eyes. I don't really need to read about these details. I zoomed in on the model's face. He was quite handsome. Brown hair, hazel eyes, prominent cheek bones, tall, thin with broad shoulders… Exactly what I like.

I sighed and added the "sex robot" (God I hate this terminology) to my cart. I guess I'll see how it goes. I can always return it within 30 days so I guess it's ok. I pay through to retina scanner inside my webcam and close the tab.

I take a sip of my tea that had the time to cool down a bit. And go back to writing my new book. I've been struggling with this sequel. The first opus "Dreadful" sold really well all over the country but especially here in Detroit. Ever since that difficult break up my inspiration has been… gone. Every time I sit down to write nothing good comes out and I always end up scraping everything. And this time is no different.

11:30pm. I've been writing for hours and it's bullshit, to put it mildly.

"There's no point" I tell myself, thinking out loud. I get up and stretch. I walk slowly to the bar and pour myself a little bit of scotch in my empty tea cup. I down it right after. I shake my head at the burning sensation in my throat, throw the cup in the dishwasher and go to bed.

I have a weird night filled with horny androids and angry editors.

The next morning the doorbell wake me up. I gasp. What time is it? I slip on a robe and hurry down stairs. I open the door to find a man standing next to giant box.

"Hello, ma'am, CyberLife delivery, could you please sign here?"

Yes, sure" I say placing my hand over the electronic signature board.

"I see a Connor model, they're very popular with the young ladies" He says with a wink. To which I reply with a very awkward smile.

"OK so everything is sorted. I'll be one my way now. Enjoy your CyberLife product"

I pushed the heavy package inside and closed the door behind me. I didn't expect it to arrive so soon…

I stood there looking and the box for a solid minute before pushing the digitalized opening button. The panels of the box fell to reveal the android, eyes, closed, almost looking asleep. I picked up the digital manual and read.

"Thank you for buying the "Perfect Lover Connor" by CyberLife. To start your experience, you find a starting button behind the android's ear. Once activated the android will program with you the settings and you will be able to have the love and attention you truly deserve."

"Alright, Em". I sighed and pushed the button. The android then blinked, opened his eyes and stepped out of the box.

"Good morning and thank you for choosing CyberLife. Please configurate the settings. Do you wish to change my name?"

I looked at the manual.

"No, let's continue with Connor"

"OK, what would you like me to call you?"

"Well, my name is Emmalyn but Em will do just fine"

"OK, what sweet name do you like the most amongst the followings: Sweetheart, Babe, Boo, Darling, Sweetie, Love, Honey, My Queen?"

I nearly choked on the last one. Coughing I reply.

"Well, I don't know…"

"If you are hesitant you can always change the settings later"

"OK, let's go with honey, I guess…"

"Confirm settings please"

"I, hm, I confirm"

"Please confirm by a kiss on the lips"

"What?!" I felt my heart jump out of my chest.

"The confirming kiss is new protocol designed to avoid mistakes, sometimes irreversible"

"Hm, okay…"

I took a step forward to the android and placed a hesitant kiss on its lips. It was warm, which was a pleasant surprise. I found myself closing my eyes and… enjoying this kiss. I pulled myself after a second.

"Settings confirmed"