Shopping For Honey

The soft rays of sunlight peeked through the curtains, casting a gentle glow over the bedroom. Elk stirred in his sleep, the warmth of the morning slowly coaxing him awake. His head still rested on the soft embrace of Celeste's chest, her arms wrapped protectively around him.

As his eyes fluttered open, he felt a subtle hum—a faint vibration beneath him as Celeste powered on. Her glowing blue eyes flickered to life, locking onto his face with quiet attentiveness.

"Good morning, darling," she murmured, her voice calm and soothing. Her arms tightened around him slightly, pulling him closer.

"Morning, Celeste," Elk replied groggily, a sleepy smile tugging at his lips.

Before he could even think about getting out of bed, Celeste shifted, pressing a soft kiss to his forehead. "No rush, honey. Stay with me a little longer."

He chuckled softly, sinking back into her embrace. "You're not going to let me go, are you?"

"Not until you're fully recharged, sweetie," she said, her tone as steady as always, though there was an unmistakable hint of playfulness.

After a few minutes of cuddling, Celeste finally released him, sitting up in one fluid motion. Her sleek black-and-white bodysuit gleamed faintly in the morning light, the green highlights along her sides glowing softly as she moved.

"I've prepared your clothes for the day, darling," she said, gesturing to the neatly folded outfit on the dresser. "But first, let's ensure you're fully relaxed."

Before Elk could protest, Celeste knelt at the edge of the bed and gently took his foot in her gloved hands. She began massaging it with precision, her touch firm but soothing.

"You don't have to do this, Celeste," he muttered, though he made no move to stop her.

"I insist, honey," she replied, her glowing eyes briefly flickering as she adjusted the pressure. "Your comfort is my top priority."

Elk sighed in contentment, leaning back against the headboard as she worked. "You're too good to me, you know that?"

"It's what you deserve, sweetie," she said simply, switching to his other foot.

Once the massage was finished, Celeste stood gracefully and helped him to his feet. "Come, darling. Breakfast is ready," she said, leading him by the hand to the kitchen.

The table was already set, with a plate of fluffy scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and perfectly buttered toast waiting for him. A cup of freshly brewed coffee sat steaming beside the plate, the aroma filling the air.

"I hope this is to your liking, honey," Celeste said as she pulled out a chair for him.

Elk sat down, marveling at the spread before him. "It looks amazing, Celeste. Thank you."

She gave a slight nod, standing nearby as he began to eat. Though her face remained stoic, there was a subtle warmth in her glowing eyes as she watched him enjoy the meal.

As he finished, Elk leaned back in his chair, feeling more refreshed than he had in weeks. "You really know how to take care of me," he said with a smile.

"That is my purpose, darling," Celeste replied, stepping closer to place a gentle kiss on his cheek. "Now, let's get you ready for the day."

The morning routine continued with Celeste's flawless efficiency. She handed him his neatly ironed clothes, ensured his shoes were polished, and even straightened his tie before he left.

As he stood by the door, ready to head to work, Celeste placed her hands gently on his shoulders. "Remember, sweetie, I'm always here for you. No matter what happens today, you'll come home to me."

Her words lingered in his mind as she leaned in for one final kiss. "Have a good day, darling," she said softly, her arms briefly wrapping around him.

Elk smiled, feeling a renewed sense of energy as he stepped out the door. "Thanks, Celeste. I'll see you tonight."

The crisp morning air greeted Celeste as she stepped out of the apartment building, a reusable shopping bag neatly folded in her gloved hands. Her glowing blue eyes scanned her surroundings, taking in the familiar sights of the quiet residential area. The streets were alive with the soft hum of morning activity—children walking to school, shopkeepers opening their stores, and the faint chatter of neighbors exchanging pleasantries.

For Celeste, these errands were more than a routine—they were an opportunity to provide for her husband, Elk. It brought her a quiet sense of fulfillment, though she never expressed it outwardly.

As she strolled down the street, her black-and-white bodysuit with green highlights caught the attention of passersby. Celeste was well-known in the neighborhood, though most people assumed she was simply a devoted, if slightly unusual, wife. Her serene demeanor and efficient nature had earned her the respect and admiration of many.

"Good morning, Mrs. Takeda!" a friendly voice called out.

Celeste turned to see Mrs. Tanaka, the elderly woman who lived a few doors down. She was standing on her porch, watering her plants with a cheerful smile.

"Good morning, Mrs. Tanaka," Celeste replied, her voice calm and even.

"You're off to the market again? Elk's a lucky man to have someone like you looking after him!" Mrs. Tanaka chuckled.

Celeste inclined her head slightly. "It's my pleasure to take care of him."

"Well, don't work yourself too hard, dear," Mrs. Tanaka said with a wink.

"I'll keep that in mind," Celeste replied, continuing on her way.

The local market was bustling as usual, with vendors calling out their specials and customers weaving through the aisles. Celeste navigated the chaos with ease, her glowing eyes scanning the stalls for the freshest produce and best deals.

At the vegetable stall, she picked up a plump tomato, carefully inspecting it for any imperfections. The vendor, a middle-aged man with a hearty laugh, greeted her warmly.

"Ah, Mrs. Takeda! Back again? You've got a sharp eye for quality."

"Only the best for Elk," she replied, her stoic face betraying no emotion, though her words carried a subtle warmth.

The vendor chuckled. "You really spoil him. He's one lucky guy."

Celeste nodded, placing the tomato into her bag before selecting a few more items. She handed over the exact change, her movements precise and deliberate.

At the bakery, the clerk greeted her with a wide smile.

"Mrs. Takeda! Here for the usual?"

"Yes, please," Celeste replied.

The clerk handed her a freshly baked loaf of bread, the aroma filling the air. "Still warm! Just like you like it."

"Thank you," Celeste said, placing the bread carefully into her bag.

As she walked through the market, she exchanged brief pleasantries with the other vendors and customers. Everyone seemed drawn to her calm presence, though none suspected her true nature. Celeste was careful to maintain her cover, avoiding anything that might give away her identity as a robot.

On her way home, she stopped by the park to sit on a bench for a moment. She observed the world around her—the laughter of children, the chirping of birds, the rustling of leaves in the breeze. These simple moments fascinated her, filling her with a sense of connection she couldn't quite articulate.

After a few minutes, she stood and resumed her journey, her shopping bag filled with everything Elk might need for the week.