I called out to Navi, the ever-cheerful AI that controlled the building’s network system. “Navi, get me my lab uniform and put my hair up in a high ponytail, please.”
Navi’s cheerful voice replied, her tone never wavering from its programmed positivity. “Right away, Isla. Will you be requiring makeup today?”
I shook my head. “Not today, Navi.”
Instantly, robotic arms whirred into action, unfolding from the ceiling and walls. They were quick and efficient, helping me into my uniform and deftly pulling my hair into my desired neat style. When they retreated, Navi’s voice returned, softer now. “Do you find it to your liking?”
I turned in the 270-degree mirror, taking in my reflection. The red-rimmed eyes were less noticeable, the pallor of my skin less ghostly beneath the professional attire.
“Yes, Navi. Thank you.” I managed a nod, appreciating the care Navi had taken. “Tell Dr. Violet I’m on my way to the lab,” I ordered as I stepped out of the RoBo Changing Room.
“Of course, Isla. Should I also arrange for your breakfast to be delivered there?”
“Yes, thank you, Navi.” I motioned to my apartment door, and the control panel flickered to life. A simple wave of my hand, and the door unlocked with a softbeep.
“The green apple cinnamon oatmeal and a hot vacuum flask of vanilla chai, correct?” Navi confirmed.
“That sounds perfect. Thank you.” I offered her a smile. Although Navi was just an AI, she had become a constant presence in my life, providing comfort and support in her own way.
“It is my pleasure, Isla.” Her response was immediate, filling the room with warmth. “Dr. Violet has been notified of your arrival, and your breakfast will be prepared as per your request. Have a wonderful day.”
“Thanks, Navi. You, too,” I said, smiling despite the tight knot in my chest. Her programmed cheerfulness was a welcome distraction, a balm for my frayed nerves.
I stepped out of my apartment, giving one last look at the sanctuary I had made for myself as I swiped my hand over the door’s control panel; the satisfyingclickof the lock echoed in the pristine white hallway.
As I walked toward the lift, I felt the weight of the world falling away. Here, in the heart of my grandfather’s empire, I was protected.
The lift took me downward, deeper into the heart of the facility. The glass tube enclosing it gave me a view of the encroaching darkness as we descended below the waterline.
Each passing moment, each level descended, was like a vise tightening around my chest. The water surrounded me on all sides, a tangible reminder of that night, of my betrayal and subsequent plunge into the chilling depths.
My heart pounded as the water got darker, the memories it invoked threatening to overwhelm me. My palms ached as I clenched my fists, the nails digging into my skin. I had to force myself to take slow, measured breaths.
“Everything’s okay, Isla. You’re safe,” I murmured to myself, drawing on every ounce of my courage to keep the panic at bay. “Control, Isla. Take control.”
I took slow, deep breaths, in…out…in…out…
“It’s okay. I’m safe.”
I kept repeating those words to myself until they formed a mantra, a soothing rhythm that helped slow my racing heart.
Every time I took this lift, no matter how many times I hoped I could be free of the anxiety it caused, I was disappointed in myself for my weakness.
Finally, the lift came to a stop, the double doors sliding open with a soft hiss. I nearly ran out.
“Morning, gentlemen,” I greeted the two guards posted by the lift, forcing a smile on my face. They nodded at me, their expressions stoic but their eyes sympathetic.
They knew my story, my struggles.
Everyone in the facility did. All had been handpicked by my grandfather, all sworn to protect me, to keep me confined within the safety of these walls.
But confinement or not, this was my haven.
This was where I found solace, in the very heart of the ocean that had nearly claimed me.
The world couldn’t hurt me in here.
The sight of my grandfather conversing with Dr. Violet was the first thing that greeted me as I entered the lab. It brought a smile to my face to see him active in his condition.
