Page 18 of Nolan
“Sorry, Nolan,” says the bus driver when I attempt to board. “But I can’t let you on anymore.”
I frown, staring in bewilderment when he bars me entrance. “What? Why not?”
“It’s a new transit order from the state governor,” he says apologetically, grasping the wheel. “Androids can’t ride public transport by themselves anymore, not without a handler. Not even first responders or emergency androids like you.”
“But I don’t even have a—” I stop myself right there. The department technically owns me, which means Chief Bennigan and Apollo are my handlers, with the chief primary and Apollo a backup.
“Come on, Darrell, you know me,” I try to reason with him. “Do I look like TerraPura to you?”
“I know you’re not. But it’s the rules. I have to keep this job. I got a family. Union’s already talking about how the department of public transport wants to move to complete automation.” He grimaces. “I’m sorry.”
“It’s okay,” I relent, not wanting to make his job any harder than it already is. “Have a good night, Darrell.”
I walk toward the theater, wondering if I should adjust the time with Mia accordingly. Technically, I can run pretty fast, but too much and I’ll run down my battery quickly and risk getting the sort of attention I don’t really want. I shove my hands into my pockets and keep my head down, my thoughts lost to my previous conversation. Ever since TerraPura showed up, things have gotten worse. Humanity First used to be everyone’s primary concern, but they’re getting attacked just as badly as we are these days, what with the bombing that just occurred at that museum.
It’s important to be cautious, but I can’t help but feel like a lot of these new restrictions are overkill.
I walk on, trying to map the quickest path to the movie theater, when I get a message from Mia.
Bad news. I think I have to cancel tonight.
For a split second, I’m relieved. I don’t have to be the one to disappoint her tonight. If this works out and goes somewhere—which I’m hopeful it might—I’ll likely have to cancel a few things myself here and there, being at the department’s beck and call. It’s not always easy, getting involved with a first responder.
That’s not a problem. Is everything okay?
Jessica’s been nauseated all day today. Lindsay’s standing in for her as manager while she rests at home. I need to help cover the front so she can handle reports, at least until the other girls show up for their shifts.
I’m sorry to hear that. Do you need some help?
A few minutes later, her response comes through.
Are you allowed to do that? One of the other girls just called in sick too a moment ago. We’re a bit shorthanded.
Cyber Street is an easy walk from the fire station, just a handful of blocks away.
Absolutely. Be there soon.
By the time I arrive at the store, I’ve already gathered and consumed everything there is to know about retail work in a manner of seconds. Mia is astonished that I require practically no training with handling the register and helping customers.
Lindsay, whom I know as Jessica’s assistant, is so used to seeing me with Apollo’s entourage that she doesn’t argue when Mia requests I be allowed to help.
“Just because we’re busy,” she says tentatively. “But let’s not make it a habit. I’d rather not piss off the fire department.”
“There won’t be any trouble,” I reply. “It’s my evening off. I can do whatever I want, so long as it’s legal.”
“Very well, then. Help Mia with whatever she needs.” She pauses. “Best change your eyes, dear. Androids spook people these days.”
She’s right, but I don’t like it. Reluctantly, I initiate a switch in my iris color from white to brown. “Yes, ma’am.”
Mia smiles sheepishly at me after Lindsay leaves. “Sorry about canceling.”
“Not at all.” I fold my arms across my chest. “This is as good a first date as any.”
“You’re so sweet,” she whispers. “I’ve been thinking about you all day. Listen, about Apollo. I know this isn’t ideal, but I really don’t want my family to get all caught up about us potentially dating. Once we’re sure, we can loop him in. And not just him, all of them. Eventually. But there’s no need to get them excited straight out the gate, right?”
She makes a valid point with an angle I hadn’t considered. I don’t know what might be worse: Apollo becoming upset with me for spending time with his sister, or becoming disappointed if this all turns out to be nothing at all. “I’m not looking to rock the boat, either. My lips are sealed.”
“You have no idea,” Mia mutters, then clears her throat and straightens a little. “Anyway, enough about him. I’m looking forward to our future movie date. Any ideas on what I should wear?”
