Over the next few days, John ran some more test and went over files that were stored in my hard drive. It was interesting to learn more about myself from John's research. Apparently, if I kept all the panels in my body closed, I could immerse myself in water. Despite being waterproof, I was not eager to try the apartment's swimming pool, considering metal wasn't known for its buoyancy. I also found out that it was possible, but not necessary, for me to consume food and liquids. John created an identity card for me in case anyone came around asking questions. According to the card, my name was Ana Taylor, a 5 foot 4 inch female with blond hair and green eyes, whose birthday was October 22, 2176. This was the same date as my activation, only twenty-four years earlier. Though he was a complete ass, he wasn't completely useless. He still restricted me from ever leaving without his permission, and he kept a closer watch on me due to my little outing that first night. Putting up with John was only temporary, seeing as I planned to make my escape soon enough.
I was able to enjoy Wilma's company again as well, much to the chagrin of my captor. I liked her before, but the fact that John didn't like Wilma made me appreciate her friendship all the more.
"What do you see in him?" she asked over lunch in her apartment. "Not to pry or anything, but it seems like you don't even like him."
"You know how it goes," I shrugged vaguely.
She nodded with understanding.
"Toxic relationships can be so taxing and dramatic, "She said, sighing. "But gosh, can they be fun." A sly smile played across her full lips and her dark blue eyes shimmered mischievously.
A vaguely familiar yet strange emotion came over me as I laughed softly. It was the first time I had laughed since being activated almost a week before. Though odd, the feeling was pleasant and welcoming. I felt comfortable sitting on the rug, having polite conversation next to my new friend.
"So, what is it that you do, Wilma?" I asked with my best attempt at chit-chat.
"I'm an assistant to the CEO of a major company. I would be living off of my inheritance right now but dad lost it all on gambling after my mom died. Only twenty more years until retirement. whoopee."
"I'm sorry. I didn't know."
"I'm not bitter," she said, laughing darkly. "What about you Ana? What do you do?"
A tinny ringing sounded in my ears and I sat up straight.
"My purpose is to serve man," I said as a trigger response. Heat rose in my face from humiliation as I quickly clarified, "My man. You know, I'm between jobs right now, and meanwhile, I'm taking care of the dope next door."
If Wilma sensed anything, she didn't let on.
"If you are considering getting a job, you would do well at a pet shop. You really have a way with animals."
She continued to speak but my processors were so occupied, I only heard every other word. The tinny noise was still ringing in my ears and an agitation had come over me, as if I was waiting for someone to give me orders.
"Thank you so much for lunch." I said over the noise. "I should be getting back."
With difficulty, I pulled myself away from the floor and swiftly walked to John's apartment door.
"Come visit me soon," She called after me.
John opened the door after I violently pounded on it.
"What's wrong?" he asked puzzled, after seeing the horrified look on my face.
"Is there something in my programming that controls how I respond in situations?" I asked, shoving my way passed him.
"I believe so,'' he said " It's built into your activation matrix."
"Delete it." I said forcefully.
"What?" He asked with raised eyebrows. "I can't do that. We don't know how you will respond to any changes in your programming, especially anything as crucial and foundational as you activation matrix.
"I don't care." I said quaveringly. "This isn't right! I'm not supposed to be like this! I want control! I want to create my own purpose!"