Deviants Fallen: A DBH Story

Chapter 10: Enemies and Allies

"While your trust would make things easier, it is not required," Amanda answer coldly. "We hold the cards. You will do as your told."

"You know what?" Clara snapped. "I'm getting awfully tired of Cyberlife's threats. I already agreed to work with you, so why do you continue to push? Can't I just have one day without you reminding me that I'm powerless and that my whole life depends on coming up with something that will satisfy you? It's been three days, Amanda. Three. Results take time. So just stop. I will do MY research MY way. The board can wait. I'll get you your answers when I find them."

She stood abruptly, knocking her chair back. Shoving it out of the way, she stalked toward the door. Halfway there, she paused, turning around. "And you know what, Amanda? Connor CHOSE to participate in my research. I offered him a choice, and he chose to help. I didn't force him into anything. Can you say the same?"

With that, Clara stormed out of the room, ignoring the AI's protests. She whipped the door open, startling Connor, then stalked over to the elevator. She waited impatiently for the android to enter in beside her. Once he did, she punched in the numbers for her floor then slumped against the wall, folding her arms across her chest. 

"I take it the meeting didn't go well?" Connor interrupted her thoughts.

"No," she said shortly. "It didn't."

"Oh." His expression fell. After a few moments, he asked, "Can I ask you a personal question?"

Clara glared up at him. "I just told you I got out of a bad meeting, and I'm clearly displaying signs of anger and frustration, as I'm sure you're fancy little scanner picked up, and you think now is the best time to ask me a personal question?" Her voice sounded harsh in her own ears.

"I'm sorry Dr. Hayes." Connor turned away, facing straight ahead. "I was out of line."

Clara dropped her face into her hands, feeling a splash of guilt. She took a deep breath, attempting to calm herself. "No, Connor, I'm sorry. I shouldn't be angry at you. It's not your fault your boss is a witch." She took another deep breath and looked back at the android. "What did you want to ask me?"

Connor was silent for a moment. "I was just going to ask if you like dogs," he said quietly. 

Clara looked at him, bewildered. She couldn't help but smile. "Really?" she laughed. "That was your question?"

"Well, Lieutenant Anderson had a dog, and it seemed to cheer him up, so I thought maybe it would cheer you up too." The android sounded sheepish. 

Clara shook her head, still laughing softly. "Oh, Connor. What am I going to do with you?" In these innocent moments, she wished she could trust him. "I suppose that yes, I do like dogs."

"Me too," Connor smiled. "Hank's dog's name is Sumo. He's a big St. Bernard. I broke into the lieutenant's house once, and I thought Sumo was going to attack me, but he didn't. I like to think that we were friends." He paused for a moment, then continued. "I wonder where he is now, with the lieutenant being in the hospital."