Machine Man (serial)

Once Carl had left, I strapped on my fingers and prepared to head to the lab. I took two steps, then stopped. I had been quite excited about the prospect of returning to the lab, but now, all of a sudden, I wasn’t. I felt like walking around. Maybe doing some standing. I wanted to rediscover the sensation of moving without someone pushing me. So I did. And before I left the Repository, I tipped the wheelchair on its side and stepped on it.

I walked to the elevators and pushed the button myself. While I waited, my hands behind my back, I hummed a little. The elevator doors opened on two white-coated technicians, who said, “Good morning, Dr. Neumann,” and moved to make room for me. “Hello,” I said. I had no idea who they were.

When, inevitably, I found my way to Lola’s medical room, she was asleep. But the Contours were not especially quiet, and a few steps into the room, her eyelids fluttered open. She saw me and smiled. It was a small smile, but very beautiful, and I thought about this for a long time afterward: this perfect moment, which could not be improved.

58.