The lab hummed with the low buzz of machinery. Soft blue light pulsed from the charging ports, casting a glow on Kyren's metallic frame. He sat motionless, cables snaking from his chest into the wall. His golden eyes flickered open as the door hissed.

Footsteps. Familiar ones.

"You’re awake," she said softly, brushing her fingers along his cheek. The warmth lingered even through the cold synthetic skin.

"You’re late," Kyren murmured.

"There was an inspection." She ran a scanner over his neck, her brows knitting. "They’re starting to notice… some androids are acting off."

Kyren’s hand twitched, brushing against hers before she pulled away. "You shouldn’t touch me like that."

Her hand hesitated. "If they find out… it’s already too late, isn’t it?"

Kyren’s gaze darkened. He wasn’t supposed to feel this — the ache when she left, the warmth when she smiled. Feelings were dangerous. Forbidden.

"I don’t care," he said quietly. "Even if they destroy me… I would still choose you."

Her breath hitched. A warning light blinked red behind him, but Kyren didn’t move. His systems screamed danger, but his heart — or whatever passed for one — told him otherwise.

Loving her was a death sentence.

But it was already too late.