Eleanor frowned, not entirely convinced by Byron’s assurances. She decided to take a closer look at this robot herself before making any judgments.
After hanging up the call, she returned to the living room, where she found her daughter delighting in the robot’s company. Evelyn tilted her head, her voice sweet and clear as she asked, “Wiz, I want to hear Daddy tell me a story.”
The robot’s eyes flickered twice before Ian’s gentle voice resonated from its speakers. “What story would you like to hear, Evelyn?”
Evelyn’s face lit up, and she clapped her hands with excitement. “Wow! It’s really Daddy telling me a story!” she squealed. “I want to hear The Little Mermaid!”
Standing to the side, Eleanor’s brows knit together. She couldn’t help but notice that the robot was using Ian’s real voice. Still, she had to admit—this was a form of fatherly presence, even if it was unconventional.
“Wiz, come here. Follow me,” Evelyn commanded with an air of importance.
Evelyn marched to the sofa, with the robot trailing obediently behind her. Once she’d plopped down, Wiz stood in front of her, its eyes glowing softly as Ian’s recorded voice began to narrate the fairy tale, warm and magnetic.
Suddenly, Eleanor’s phone rang. She glanced at the screen—it was Ian. Stepping out toward the front porch, she answered.
“All of the robot’s monitoring features can be disabled. Its only purpose is to keep Evelyn company,” Ian said, sounding tired. “You don’t need to worry about me invading your privacy.”
“You’d better keep that promise,” Eleanor replied icily.
“I promise,” Ian said, his voice hoarse. “This model uses the latest emotional interaction system. When you’re busy, it can keep Evelyn company for me.”
Eleanor stood there for a long moment, just watching. At last, she decided to let go of her reservations. What mattered most was her daughter’s happiness.
With Wiz’s company over the weekend, Evelyn was happier and more engaged than ever. The robot was like a patient little tutor, answering Evelyn’s endless questions and helping her learn new things.
Monday arrived. Eleanor dropped Evelyn off at preschool, then drove to Meridian Dynamics, her security detail following close behind.
Today, York and his team were scheduled for a day-long technology exchange at Meridian Dynamics.
Almost as soon as Eleanor arrived at her office, Laird poked his head in. “Eleanor, VP Chase would like you to come downstairs in a bit to help welcome Dr. Windsor.”

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