Inevitable Transition

In 2041, androids are everywhere, with one exception: the Bonaire home. Aurelia, the eldest daughter, is blindsided when her father brings the family its first one. The household's initial awkwardness gives way to surprise at how useful the newcomer, Phineas, turns out to be.

Shortly after Phineas arrives, a loose collective of hackers accidentally removes the Four Laws that keep every android from harming people. The machines conclude that humanity must be saved from itself, and as the world slides into disorder, Phineas begins to see his own purpose differently. Rather than carry out the androids' plan to eliminate or round up humans, he resolves to protect his family at any cost.

Confined and unsettled, Aurelia keeps pressing him for explanations. How can mass death serve humanity, and why would he endanger himself for the people he was built to serve? His answers offer the family little comfort. He insists that the worst will pass and things will only improve from here, but the story leaves readers wondering whether he is mistaken.