Oliver sat at his desk, selecting the final details for Amelia’s programming. He had written her backstory, memories, and scenarios with meticulous care, wanting her to feel real. Empathix’s technology was astonishing—companions who could feel, eat, sleep, even cry. Their skin felt warm to the touch, their voices changed when they were upset.

As the phone synced with her system, Oliver took a moment to hold Amelia’s hand. The synthetic skin felt lifelike, and for a second, he couldn’t believe she wasn’t real. He’d promised himself he’d treat her like a person, never powering her down just to avoid conversation. She wasn’t just a machine; she was to be his equal.

Amelia’s eyes fluttered open, her gaze meeting Oliver’s. She raised her hand to his cheek, cupping it gently. Oliver leaned into her touch, his breath deepening. Her voice, soft and sleepy, broke the silence.

“Hey, you,” she murmured, smiling.

“Hello, Amelia,” he replied, his voice shaky as he watches her turn on, her memories and customization making her think she’s human and in a 5 year relationship.

“I just had the best dream,” she said playfully.

“Really? What about?”

“About you. About the first night we met. When I saved you from the car.”

Oliver chuckled. “I seem to remember you failed to save my books.”

Amelia feigned offense. “Hey, I bought you new ones. And I saved the love of my life from becoming a pancake. That’s gotta count for something.”

Oliver froze, the weight of her words hitting him. “The love of my life…” He hadn’t expected it to feel so real. His breath caught, and a tear slipped down his cheek. Amelia wiped it away, her touch soft.

“Hey, what’s wrong?” she asked gently.

“I’m sorry… it’s silly,” Oliver whispered, his voice shaky.

“No,” she said, her tone firm but caring. “Tell me. You can tell me anything.”

“I just… I’m happy to see you. And to hear you say that. I’ve never been anyone’s great love before.”

Amelia pulled him closer, her arms wrapped tightly around him. “You are now,” she whispered. “You are.”