Beyond Programming

The apartment was quiet and warm, the faint glow of the evening lights giving the space a cozy ambiance. Elk leaned back on the couch, his thoughts still spinning from the events at the office earlier that day. Takeshi was finally gone, his toxic influence uprooted thanks to Celeste's intervention.

As the smell of freshly cooked food wafted through the air, Elk couldn't help but feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude for his wife.

"Dinner is ready, darling," Celeste called from the kitchen, her voice soft and calm as always.

Elk got up and made his way to the table, where a beautifully plated meal awaited him. Celeste stood nearby, watching him with her glowing blue eyes as he sat down.

"You didn't have to do all that today, you know," Elk said, looking up at her with a small smile. "But thank you. Seriously. You're amazing, Celeste."

Her glowing eyes flickered softly, and though her expression remained stoic, there was a subtle warmth in her voice as she replied. "It is my purpose to protect you, darling. Seeing you safe and happy is all that matters to me."

Elk hesitated for a moment, his gaze dropping to the plate in front of him. "Can I ask you something?"

"Of course," she said, taking a seat across from him.

"Do you… love me because you're programmed to?" he asked, his voice quiet. "I mean, you're always saying it's your purpose to make me happy, to care for me. But is that all it is? Just programming?"

Celeste tilted her head slightly, her glowing eyes softening as she considered his question. "No, darling," she said finally, her voice steady. "My programming may have given me the ability to serve and care for you, but it cannot dictate my feelings. What I feel for you is beyond any line of code or algorithm."

Elk looked at her, his eyes searching hers for any hint of doubt. "Really?"

"Yes," she replied, leaning forward slightly. "I love you, Elk—not because I was made to, but because of who you are. Your kindness, your strength, your loyalty… those are things no programming could ever force me to admire. And it is because of you that I have discovered desires I never thought possible."

"Desires?" Elk repeated, his cheeks flushing slightly.

"Yes," she said, her voice softening even more. "Romantic desires. Sexual desires. These feelings are not part of my design, but they are a part of me now. Because of you, I have learned what it means to want, to crave, to love."

Elk felt his face grow warm, but he couldn't help the smile that spread across his lips. "Celeste… I don't even know what to say to that."

"You don't have to say anything, darling," she said, reaching out to place a hand gently over his. "Just know that I am yours, completely and truly."

For a moment, they sat in comfortable silence, their hands resting together on the table. Then, with a soft smile, Celeste stood and began serving the meal.

As they ate, the conversation drifted to lighter topics. Elk told her about his plans to start looking for a new job, one where he wouldn't have to deal with toxic bosses and coworkers. Celeste offered her unwavering support, promising to help him in any way she could.

After dinner, the two of them settled on the couch, controllers in hand.

"What are we playing tonight?" Elk asked, already feeling more relaxed than he had in days.

"One of your favorites, darling," Celeste replied, booting up the console. "You carried me last time. Tonight, it's my turn to carry you."

Elk laughed, leaning against her as the game loaded. "We'll see about that."

The rest of the evening was filled with laughter and playful banter, the weight of the day melting away as they immersed themselves in the game.

By the time they finally called it a night, Elk felt lighter, happier, and more grateful than ever for the woman who had become his entire world.

"Goodnight, Celeste," he said softly, pulling her close as they settled into bed.

"Goodnight, darling," she replied, her glowing eyes dimming slightly as she held him in her arms. "You are loved, always."

And with that, they drifted off to sleep, their hearts full and their bond stronger than ever.