To Play With Dolls
Edward was bored. He was unused to being bored. Granted, after 112 years, most things tend to pall, but if nothing else, having more money than some countries should alleviate the boredom of eternal life somewhat. However, it wasn't working.
So Edward found himself in Los Angeles. Playground of the rich, famous and gorgeous. He appeared to fit right in, but Edward knew he wasn't even close to being the same as the others. Ironic a vampire should find himself in a city known for its sunshine. However, LA's nightlife more than made up for the inconvenience of daytime. And like so many others, Edward's lack of a daylight life was simply written off as eccentricity. It certainly didn't impact on his ability to romance the fairer sex. He had plenty of girlfriends, but had still to find the perfect woman for him.
It was at a nightclub he first ran into Adelle. She claimed she had a solution to his problem, he brushed her off as a pimp, or madame. Several encounters later, and a copious amount of research, he was beginning to be convinced she was right. Perhaps she did have a solution. Thus the reason he found himself standing outside her office building.
"Edward. A pleasure. Welcome to the Dollhouse. You've decided to accept our offer, I assume?" Adelle welcomed him to her private office. "As I said before, we have the solution to your problem."
"Oh? And what solution would that be, Adelle?" Edward knew exactly what she was implying, but wanted her to say it.
"We can create your perfect woman, complete to your exact requirements. She will be exactly what you want, both in looks and personality. You simply tell us what you want, and we deliver."
Edward was intrigued. Perhaps this would be worth the effort. He maight be able to recreate her. Although he knew no one would ever replace her, he was tired of mourning someone who left him. It was time to move on.
"Very well, Ms DeWitt, you have yourself a client." They shook hands, and Edward left.
Three days later, Edward found himself outside the Dollhouse again. After he completed the in-depth psychological profile he wanted, and the physiological requirements, the doctor told him to return in 3 days, to finalise arrangements and collect his new doll.
"She is exactly as specified, yes? Brown hair, pale skin, brown eyes, completely submissive, and head over heels in love with me?" Edward wanted to double check, especially considering the not-inconsequential fees charged by the Dollhouse.
"She is exactly as requested. Her name is India, but you can of course replace this with any name you like. She is totally subservient to your wishes, and is fanatically in love with you, as you required." Adelle sounded proud of the doll they had programmed.
At that moment, India appeared in the doorway, and Edward sucked in a surprised breath. The similarities were striking. There were differences, of course, the hair colour was slightly lighter, her eyes didn't have the same sparkle of defiance, but it was amazing how much she looked like Her.
"Now, as agreed, the initial contract is for a month, but can be extended at the end, for as long as you want. However, there is a finite limit to the extent of the engagement, as India's contract with Rossum Corp. expires in 18 months. If you wish another active at this time, we will provide one with the same specifications." Adelle fussed with some paperwork on her desk, and looked at Edward. "Now, if you'll just sign here, our transaction will be complete, and you and your new friend will be free to leave."
Edward signed the papers, thanked Adelle for her time, shook her hand, and turned to leave. As he was passing through the doorway, Adelle asked him a question.
"Are you going to change her name?"
"Yes. Her name will be Ella."