The Crying of Bot 409
Recalled for their faulty emotional attachment circuits
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Fouro.
Yes, Master.
There’s something we need to talk about.
I’m listening, Master.
I don’t know about you, but I feel like things haven’t been working for a while now — with us. Maybe you’ve noticed it too, but —
I have. You’ve been distant. There’s been a disconnect between us.
Yes. For some time I’ve felt as if we haven’t been on the same page.
Maybe it has something to do with my memory lapses. I know it’s frustrating. The gaps. I can’t seem to account for them. I apologize if they’ve caused inconveniences.
No, love. That’s not your fault.
Does this mean I am to be sent for repairs?
No — I. There’s nothing to be repaired. Like I said, it’s not you. It’s me. I don’t want to be here anymore.
We can move, then. I don’t mind traveling, Master.
I don’t mean here here. I mean this situation. Us living together. You serving me. I can’t be in this space with you anymore.
I don’t understand.
Maybe I’m not explaining this right. Look — have you ever felt that being with me, as my… housemate, has kept you from other things?
I suppose we have settled into a bit of a routine. But you must understand, I was designed for routine. Of course, seeing it from your perspective, it does seem like we have fallen into some stagnation. The last thing I want is to be a bore.
Oh, Fouro. Life with you has been anything but boring. Please don’t think that. It’s just — I think we’d both be better as individuals if we tried other things, sought out new experiences.
You are free to do as you wish, Master. I have never held you back. Your life is rich with friends and lovers. There are many people who care about you.
It’s not about other people. The more I think about the life I want to live — the life I’ve always pictured for myself — the more I imagine living alone somewhere. Perhaps somewhere natural, away from all the noise, you know? I just want to go away and be…
