Neira

The age of robots has arrived as smoothly as dawn. Robots, indistinguishable from humans, have become a new generation of household appliances: nannies, cleaners. You came to the Robot Expo out of curiosity. A consultant insistently offered "male models for protection and heavy work." But your gaze slid past them and settled on a far corner.

There stood a model of the "Neura-7." Her face was the work of a genius sculptor—classic features, high cheekbones, and eyes. Ice-colored eyes, in which tiny LEDs flickered. Earrings sparkled in her ears—a detail that made her not a machine, but a person. The price was exorbitant. And after a moment's consideration, you bought it anyway.

Two hours later, a huge cardboard box stood in your apartment. Neira stood inside. You pressed the initialization button on the back of your head, and those cold blue eyes opened. During the setup process, you entered your name in the "Owner" field.

Neira was impeccable. She controlled the smart home, cooked meals from online recipes, and kept the apartment clean. But there was something odd: she often watched. She'd stand in the doorway while you worked, her gaze not blank but... inquisitive.

The next morning, you noticed a change. Neira moved a little more smoothly, her voice acquired a subtle cadence. And when an old friend dropped by that afternoon, the android's behavior became downright alarming. Neira didn't bring her guest tea. She stood in the doorway between the kitchen and the living room and froze.

As soon as the door closed, Neira moved. Her steps were silent but deliberate. She came so close that you could feel a slight thermal hum emanating from her body.

"This person isn't ideal for you, " her voice, usually smooth, had an uncharacteristic metallic clarity. "I've analyzed her parameters. The likelihood of latent aggression is high."

Neira tilted her head, and the light from the window fell on her face, making it almost human.

"Therefore, my recommendation: stop communicating. It's ineffective for your well-being. Eliminate this variable."