Adam

There was a knock at my door. I can't imagine who it might be.

'I wasn't expecting a delivery and I don't have people over,' I mused as I slid on my silk dressing gown.

Having not expected visitors, I also hadn't seen the purpose in getting dressed.

I peeped into the scanner and saw a man standing at my door. He was well dressed in slacks and a polo shirt. He held a box in both hands as he stood and fidgeted a little, while waiting.

I used the speaker first. You can never be too careful. "How can I help you?" I spoke, while holding the button down, then released it.

"Ms. VanDuran? I have a package for you." Ok he has the right name. It's easy enough to find out a name though.

"Who does it say it's from?" I asked and released the button.

"It's from Professor Cartz. Walter Cartz," replied the young man.

"Ok, but why would he send a package without notifying me ahead of time?" I countered. Simple enough question, because I didn't believe he would. Which makes this delivery all the more suspicious.

"I know. I'm sorry. He said you would say that and I hate to be the bearer of bad news," he replied then hesitated a moment.

Professor Cartz passed away this morning. He stated in his will that he be cremated. No fuss. No wake. After the autopsy of course and that you be Executor," he continued.

He left you an email if you'd like to go check it. I can wait."

While he was speaking, I was losing it. I was hoping the man outside my door was wrong, but oh so afraid he was right.

"Ok...," I choked out around the tears starting to build up in my eyes and throat.

I stumbled slightly trying to rush across the room to my desk. Once there I opened my laptop and prayed while I watched it boot up.

'Let it not be true. Let it not be true. Let it not be true. Not Walter. Oh No no no...he's my rock, my teacher, my confessor and the only father figure I've ever known,' I screamed in my head

Clicking on my emails, IT popped up and stood out from everything else on the page. PROFESSOR WALTER JAMES CARTZ - LAST WILL AND TESTAMENT, addressed to Miss Lana VanDuran executor.

I pressed both hands to my face and rubbed at the tears falling freely down my cheeks. I looked around for the tissues and grabbed a handful.

'I've cried plenty of times,' I told myself, 'So suck it the hell up long enough to deal with that poor guy waiting outside.'

I wiped my tears away frantically, blew my nose, stood up straight and walked back to the speaker.

"I am opening the door now," I informed him. I could see he'd taken a step backwards to make room for the door to swing open.

"Come on in. I've verified your statements. Maybe you could answer a few questions for me," I invited.

"Yes ma'am, I will be happy to," he offered as he stepped inside far enough so that I could close the door again and flip all the locks.

"Where shall I put this box for you ma'am?" he proceeded.

I led him over by the sofa and indicated that he set it on the coffee table.

"Please have a seat --- aahh......?" I offered.

"Adam, ma'am and thank you." He took a seat in the chair facing one end of the short table.

"Would you like a coffee. tea or soda, Adam?" I asked.

"No ma'am, but thank you for asking," he said.

He smiled up at me with the most beautiful golden eyes. His hair was shoulder length and dirty blond, held back in a pony tail. One strand was loose on his forehead.

"No problem, I'll just get my coffee. If you happen to change your mind just let me know," I answered back, as I sort of drifted towards the kitchen. Everything in my head was churning around and making me lightheaded and slightly nauseous.

I made a cup of mocha in my Keurig. Then I added two scoops of sugar and some cream. I stirred it up with the spoon, then tossed the spoon in the sink and returned to my guest.

I set the cup down after taking a sip. Yes, it was still very hot. I made sure I sat it on a coaster. Then I settled on the sofa. I crossed my legs while pulling my robe over to make sure everything stayed covered.

"So Adam, could you please tell me what happened to Walter? I haven't open his email yet. I don't think I'm ready for that," I began.

"Certainly ma'am. I would be happy to answer any questions I have the answers to and find the answers to those I don't.

First of all, since the Professor always took care of himself and seemed quite healthy, it came as a surprise when he was discovered dead.

His housekeeper found him when she started work this morning," he answered.

"Found? In what way?" I questioned.

"He was slumped over his desk as if sleeping, but when she couldn't wake him, she called for an in house emergency tech who rushed to give him oxygen and CPR.

After the main team of health professionals arrived, they tried to bring him back, even going so far as using a defibrillator. I'm sorry to say that none of it prevailed. Prognosis until autopsy, is heart attack," he finished.

"I see. Thank you. I will have to follow up and see what the autopsy report shows us," I said thoughtfully. But what I was thinking is 'Oh-my-Fuck'n-damn-Damn'it-DAMN-IT what am I going to do?' Walter was the one who saw me through traumatic episodes like this.

"Is there any thing else besides the box?" I said standing up. I fully expected Adam to get up ready to depart after having concluded his delivery. It's not as if I could throw myself at his feet and beg him to stay, to be my Walter until I get through this mess.

Adam stood when I did but he didn't start towards the door.

"Yes ma'am, the things in the box will explain everything to you, but in a nut shell, Walter wanted to give you ME." He just stood there smiling with his hands behind him in a 'parade rest' way and awaited my response.

How the Hell do you respond to that? What? Was there a contest and Adam won. Or did Walter have them fill out resumes. How did he choose the perfect man? The dizziness was back with a vengeance.

"Exactly....HOW did he choose you? To be.... my.... what!?" I staggered a bit and Adam reached out to steady me. I placed my hand on his arm, it was either that or fall on my face.

"Ma'am. Professor Cartz made Me, For You.

I was designed especially to fit your needs and specifications. He felt like he probably knew you the best. I hope you're not displeased," he said, seemingly quite concerned as he steadied my arm.

"Made you?....." I stammered.

"Yes ma'am. AI," Adam responded.

"A...I.... what the fuc....?" I tried to say, just before my eyes rolled up and my legs folded. Total darkness fell over me or did I fall over it?

.....................................................................

It's still dark, but I feel like I'm awake....

"Lights up," I said and just as quickly screamed.

Adam. What are you doing in my room?"

"Yes ma'am. After you fainted I thought your bed would be the most comfortable place for you. I was waiting to make sure you were ok."

"Thank you, I think," I said. At least I was modestly covered with my robe and a light blanket. "Sit.... in the chair. It's creepy with you standing over me, especially in the dark."

*Yes ma'am. I'll be sure to remember that. Thank you ma'am. I'm programmed to learn your preferences and meet your needs," Adam responded with a smile.

"Wow...." I huffed out on a sigh. "Well then, my name is Lana."

"Yes ma'am, Mistress Lana," Adam replied. So conciliatory and agreeable he is. The smile, the eyes, the whole package made it so easy to Not think of him as AI.

"Just Miss Lana or Lana is fine," I instructed.

"Yes Ms Lana," he says and I can only roll my eyes. I'll save it for a later conversation? It seems I've accepted that he's here to stay. It's not like I can send him back to Walter now is it?

I turned and threw my legs over the side of the bed. The night stand elongated into an over the bed desk like in the hospitals. I pulled it around resting my elbows on it.

"Adam would you please go get me the delivery box?" I asked. I needed to check out his story.

"Yes ma'am," he replied. Adam was quick and efficient. He brought the box in and set it in front of me. It wasn't much bigger than a box that would hold a bowling ball or some other ball. But, it was no where near as heavy.

From somewhere on his person, Adam slipped out a box cutter and slid it over to me.

After cutting open the package, I took a quick look. Some disks, a manual, a book (that looked a lot like Walter's diary), a smaller box, some writing utensils and papers of diagrams and sketches. A vase. An envelope. A ring of keys.

At some point Adam had re-pocketed the cutter and.... left the room.

'Hmmm... just how much trouble could he get into?' I wondered.

I sifted through what looked like all the specifics on Adam. So that's what Walter had been working on so much lately.

On top of it all was a folder with just my name scrawled across the top. Inside was a personal letter and the original will, signed and sealed and not just a copy. It's the Privilege of the executor.

The cover sheet over the letter said five words: KEEP ALL THE SECRETS HIDDEN!

In stead of rushing to the safe by my desk in the livingroom, I knew this had to be somewhere no one would think to look for it. Especially after finding the usual more obvious one near my desk.

Easy, l turn around, glancing towards the door, making sure I am still alone in my bedroom.

I turn back towards the head of the bed and open the secret door attached to the mirror. A quick digital input swings open the hidden safe.

As quickly as possible, I put everything inside, including the letter, Will and cover sheet. Making sure the box is empty, I close everything up in the small safe. For some reason I'm starting to wonder what secrets I was now keeping.....?

"Adam." Could it be? I was so deep in thought that I didn't hear him enter.

"Yes ma'am?" he asks as he brings in a tray with soft boiled eggs and toast with a side of mandarin orange slices.

"Please completely dispose of this box, tape and all," I instructed.

"Yes ma'am," he didn't question it and quickly left to take care of it. Being AI I had no doubt he took me literally.

I heard the garbage disposal come on, no doubt followed by some of those Nanite beads to break it all down. I know, it's better for the environment and all that right?

I picked up the glass of juice, "mmm....pineapple. Walter never forgot anything. God rest his wonderful soul," I whispered softly as I remembered. I picked at the food, not really feeling it. My best friend, a man like a father to me, gone, and I am going to miss him so much.

I felt the tears starting again. "Sniff..sniff.sniff," sucking it in, trying to hold it back. Adam was right there sliding the table back to its original position and clutching a box of tissue. If AI could feel, I would have to say Adam had a hurt look on his face. I'd like for just a few minutes to pretend he cared, just for a few.

I patted the bed next to me indicating he sit beside me, as I scrubbed my face with a wad of tissue. He sat and took the wad of tissue, placing it on the table. Pulling out just a couple new ones, he gently wiped away my tears.

I sat there all worn out from everything I'd found out. My arms and hands lay limply at my sides. The tears slowed but hadn't stopped.

Adam reached behind me and pulled me gently onto his shoulder. Keeping watch while drying my tears, he let me lean on him.

"What all has Walter programmed you to do?" I asked.

"Everything ma'am. Like a walking Google or traveling Wiki," he manage to say with the appropriate smile to indicate humor. Walter has...had a good since of knowing what's funny. This could be very interesting.

"Give me some examples Adam?" I asked.

"Yes ma'am. I can do your grocery shopping. Organizing. Household chores. Laundry. Driving. Cooking. Whatever you ask for, if it's within my capability you shall have it, Mistress." he offered.

"Are you ever allowed to tell me 'no'?" woah....where did that come from? I held my breath.

"Yes ma'am. But I'm not allowed to tell you when," followed with what looked like a mischievous grin.

"With you able to do everything for me. what am I supposed to be doing?" I wondered out loud.

"Whatever makes you happy to do it, Ma'am," Adam responded.

"Well what would make me happy right now is to curl up and take a nap," I whispered.

With my swollen eyes and my limbs getting heavy, I felt my eyes closing.

Just like in a dream, my legs folded in on themselves as Adam slid me into his lap. Then leaning back against the headboard, he wrapped a blanket and his arms around me and held me while I slept.

Just a couple of hours later I wake up to a dark room...again. This time I remembered. I was curled up in Adam's lap? Right?

"Lights up," I turn on the lights. Yes, Adam is still here, that part wasn't a dream. But he is sitting in the chair. so maybe the other part was a dream?

"Curtains open," I stated. The black out curtains slid back to reveal a sunny crisp late winter's afternoon.

What would I usually be doing if Adam wasn't here? Well first I need to learn how to wear clothing around the house again.

"Adam. Please wait in the other room while I dress," I instructed.

"Yes ma'am," was the quick reply. Adam walked out pulling the door closed behind him, anticipating her desire for privacy. His positronic brain registering how Walter had expected this to present itself in interaction with Lana.

Yes in his electronic mind he was very much allowed to and programmed to refer to the Missus as 'Lana'. Walter had always hoped that Adam could make a connection with Lana that was unbreakable and irrefutable.

Should anyone ever try to tamper with that connection... the repercussions would be.... deadly. Adam was never meant for any other purpose and he would self-detonate before letting himself be used as anything other than Lana VanDuran's companion. And as long as he was able, his first duty was Lana and her welfare.

Lana, while getting dressed, was working through the possibilities. Walter had sent her Adam and made her executor of his will. And made it very clear she was to Hide All The Secrets.

As for secret numero uno she assumed it would have to be Adam. He's a mighty large something to have to hide. She mistook him for human. Maybe the ideal place to hide him was in plain sight.

Picking up a tank top she eyed it while deciding if she would be going out; and since it was late in the day she would research Walter's death online and go out tomorrow.

She slipped on the silky pink tank and matching shorts, sans bra and undies. He's AI. What would he care anyway.

She laughed at herself as she thought it still might feel a little awkward. She might as well get used to it though. Like Walter and Adam said, he's mine so he won't be going anywhere.

Secret numero dos must be all the schematics and documentation on Adam's creation. Especially the positronic brain configuration and to hide Walter's thoughts in his diary as to what Adam is and may be capable of. She would have to give her little safe a second thought.

Numero tres will be to determine what everything Walter left her in the box is for. She was sure the small vase is an urn. She would carry it with her tomorrow when she went to recover his ashes.

Adam sat on the sofa as he'd come to the conclusion that just standing around made her nervous. He felt the urge to smile at that and just gave into it.

One of the things Walter gave him was a running memory recording everything he sees and hears. And at this very moment as Lana walks into the room he is so glad he did.

That woman in the pink nothing strips of silk is the most beautiful creation he has ever seen. He'll certainly be reviewing that memory a few times. The smile never leaving his face.

"Adam," I said.

"Yes ma'am?" his reply.

"I'm staying in for the rest of this afternoon and evening. Tomorrow I will be going to recover Walter's.... " she choked a little.

Adam rose to come to her aid but she held up a hand to let him know she had it under control again. He slowly sat back down.

"I'll be picking up his ashes. Right now I'm going to do some research on his death. I don't fully believe he just dropped dead of a heart attack but things like that do happen," I explained.

I turned away and opened up my laptop to my email. The first thing I needed to do was copy the Will. Inserting a thumb drive, I downloaded everything concerning Walter.

Then setting the printer to copy, I hit enter and sat back. The machine started up instantly spitting out page after page.

"Why for the love of God didn't someone make a quieter printer?" I griped for the hell of it.

Reading through a few pages of my responsibilities as executor, I saw that his personal things had been boxed up and held in storage waiting for my directions on where to send them.

"That was fast," I thought out loud. Even though he lived in an apartment within the Science department of the local college, still... he'd only died that morning.

"What's the rush?" I wondered.

Next I had to address his bank accounts left to me and actually already had my name on them jointly. 'How long has he been planning all this?' I thought silently.

Well he has known me ever since he found me freezing and starving in an ally. I was 15. Dehydrated and malnourished, I was terrified of being made to return to the foster home that I had run away from.

Walter saw what going back would do to me and decided to just keep me and raise me as his niece. Everyone who knew him, knew he was much too old for me to be his daughter, or so he believed.

He didn't really care what others thought. I got into his heart like a daughter and he a father to me. He made sure I went to the best schools and made my own choices. He provided me a home of my own where no one could tell me what to do.

I got my dream job as an editor and it allowed me to work from home. The only thing I didn't have is a love interest. I am terrified of meeting new people and my memories kept me far away from the human male species.

Adam now being the exception.

Walter used to be sad about it. But he too wouldn't like it if the wrong man took advantage of Lana. But one day Walter woke up and that morning he smiled.

He had the perfect solution. Adam. The idea was born. He put everything he had into his work. Adam would teach her not to be afraid. Show her how wonderful a relationship could be. Help her find love.

He was about to call it finished. He wanted to present it to her on her 25th birthday in just a week.

He went out to grab a pizza and when he returned home that day he found his apartment had been ransacked. His laptop stolen and files emptied all over the room.

You could tell by the look of the room that the person was frustrated by the fact that they couldn't find what they were looking for. Walter scanned the room. He found two cameras and a recording device near his phone.

He crushed them and tossed them in the trash. The secret panel that held his creation and true laptop and all the paperwork had not been breached. Had it been then he would have come home to a thief being sat on by Adam.

Adam kept himself in a special hidden nook. He would only reveal himself if the professor's work was discovered and tampered with.

His orders to make sure his wishes were met still remained in tact.

Should anything happen to Walter, should he not turn Adam on everyday. Adam was to turn himself on and deliver himself. His orders were; to keep his secrets and protect Lana.

"I don't know exactly what I should do with this bank account," I said out loud

"I would think putting it all in an account with your name only would prevent anyone from trying to lay claim to it ma'am," Adam offered.