Chapter 4

The next few days passed uneventfully. Dorothy found herself in a new routine becoming my partner in negotiations. Angel contacted me, stating she may have a lead on the case and was trying to get case files from Dastun to match with files she had managed to secure from the assessor's office. The end result of the conversation was Dorothy ignoring me over dinner that same night. If I were to guess, she's probably experiencing some jealousy, which mildly amuses me. As an android, it had been difficult to read her emotions. Now, I feel like I'm walking on thin ice when it comes to her and Angel.

Meeting with the second survey company had produced mix results. The second survey was to take as long as the first. The representatives from the Paradigm Corp had insisted on rapid results, but the company would not yield. Beck did not help the situation, stating that quality and perfection could not be rushed. Due to the distance from when Paradigm City limits ended, and where Electric City began, it would take at least a month for the survey to be completed. This allowed me take on additional cases, while keeping up-to-date on the survey's progress.

Norman didn't fail me on my request to give Dorothy nice transportation. He had already had a car that he occasionally used, a smaller sedan, more round in nature and in gray. He seems to prefer his bike for running errands. I told him to make sure Dorothy would be protected from any and all threats. He installed many features similar to my car and in a fortnight. Dorothy was super happy and thanked Norman, I guess still miffed at me, as she barely noticed me.

But instead of taking the day off, I'm now riding in the passenger seat of Dorothy's car. I thought there would be issues with her driving stick, but Dorothy's a natural. Norman had taught her how to drive this car from time to time. When she came downstairs in her business attire, I found her, stunning. She stopped in me mid-sentence with Norman with her appearance. As an android, she could pass for human by just glancing at her, but now… well… Norman had to bring me back down to reality by forcing my keys into my hand.

"Can I ask why you insisted on tagging along?" Dorothy asked as she took the exit to get off the highway.

"This case, you said was involving a seizure of property from the Paradigm Corp?"

"Yes."

"Dastun said there might be someone above him issuing these orders. I was going to look around for clues and see if there was anything I could find useful."

"Have you heard from Dastun or Angel regarding her case?"

"No, I haven't, aside from a few days ago. It's starting to make me wonder."

Dorothy turned left at the intersection, driving a short distance before stopping in front of a rundown building.

"Is this it?"

"According to the address, yes. Mr. and Mrs. Townsend own this building. They're an elderly couple, but they use the building as an apartment building and indoor market. Apparently, it used to be an office building before… forty years ago…" Dorothy's voice trailed off.

"What is it?"

"It feels weird, saying forty years ago, when we know the truth of what actually happened. Well, a part of it anyway."

"Hmm… Yeah. It… does sound weird. Probably what lead to the transformation of Michael Seebach into Schwarzwald. He probably couldn't handle it."

Dorothy opened the door and stepped out of the car, shrugging. "Perhaps…"

Roger stepped out of the car, putting on his shades. "Is Paradigm attending? Sometimes, they contract the jobs out to other firms in the city."

"Yes, a rep from the assessor's office. Do you have any advice when handling Paradigm?"

"Trust your instincts. Paradigm will be assertive with their request. Be firm and consistent with Paradigm. You show weakness now, word will get around quickly, and they'll walk all over you. But also be fair. Be understanding of both parties and respect their wishes."

"It sounds easier said than done."

"Just remember you're the mediator. You are in control of this meeting. Push back when you need to, push forward. Go with the flow. I have faith in you, Negotiator."

Roger extended his hand. Dorothy took a deep breath, clearing her mind. She took Roger's hand, shaking it, looking at Roger. Roger saw her face look blank, void of emotion, and for a moment, thought briefly she was an android again.

"Thank you, Roger. I appreciate your confidence in me." She gave him a warm smile, before her face returned to being emotionless once more. Dorothy turned and walked inside the building, with Roger watching her.

"Good luck, Dorothy," he whispered.

*******************************

Mr. and Mrs. Townsend were in the hallway and greet Dorothy as she walked in.

"Ah… you're the negotiator, Roger Smith?" asked Mrs. Townsend. She looked confused; she was expecting a man.

"I'm from his firm. I am Dorothy Wayneright. I've been assigned your case. Rest assured that my abilities are just as good as my associate's. Has the representative from Paradigm arrived?"

"Um, yes… he has," replied Mr. Townsend. He produced a large manilla envelope for Dorothy, "As you requested, here's an additional copy of our proof that our taxes have been paid in full. I went back ten years."

"This'll be more than sufficient, Mr. Townsend. I do appreciate your assistance with producing your records. Shall we begin?"

Mr. Townsend gesture to gathering room, following behind the ladies. Dorothy entered the room, seeing the rep from Paradigm. He wore a pinstripe suit, with a fedora pushed over his eyes, and he has various gold rings on his fingers. He looked up when Dorothy and the Townsends entered the room.

"Please have a seat," said Mr. Townsend. Dorothy sat on the couch, opposite of the Paradigm rep. The Townsends settled in chairs on opposite ends of the couch. The Paradigm rep was staring intently at Dorothy.

"Where's Smith?" the rep asked gruffly.

"I work for the same firm as Mr. Smith. Rest assured, our firm's reputation is known for treating all parties fairly and you will receive the same treatment. I am Dorothy Wayneright." She stood, holding out her hand for him to shake.

The rep grunted and did not shake her hand. Dorothy sat back down, withdrawing her hand. She put her satchel on the table and opened it, bringing out her notes, note pad, and pen, and setting on the table. She then closed the satchel and set it down on the couch.

"I understand Paradigm is trying to seize Mr. and Mrs. Townsend's property for failure of paying taxes…" Dorothy referred to her notes, "for five years?"

"Yes, and I have brought proof that the Townsend are past due." He took large group of papers held together with a bulldog clip and slapped them on table. Dorothy raised an eyebrow.

"Odd… the Townsends have saved all of their receipts from the assessor's office and have been officially stamped by the Paradigm home office as paid in full. I have a copy for your records for you to review, going back ten years. The Townsends have always paid on time and have never been in trouble with the assessor's office before."

Dorothy slid the envelope that Mr. Townsend had given her early across the table. The rep sneered at it.

"Copies won't work, Ms. Wayneright. We'll need the original copy that the Townsends possess."

"And judging from the discrepancy that we have with the records, the originals will stay in the Townsends' ownership. My office also has copies of their records. Per the law, if it has the official seal of Paradigm on the record and states 'PAID IN FULL' on the document, Paradigm has to honor the copy as an original, if Paradigm has lost the original records, per code 471, section A, subsection ae, line 3. Those copies I just gave to you meet the letter of the law."

The rep sneered at Dorothy. "Are you negotiator or a lawyer, Miss Wayneright?"

"I'm merely covering my bases, sir. However, it seems Paradigm as of late has been having issues with the clerks, which makes me wonder about their hiring standards, especially if they sent you for a job that could've been easily handled over the phone."

The rep became flustered and stood from his chair. Dorothy's heart raced, but she remained calm and stayed in her seat, merely looking at him.

"Now see here you little brat…"

"If you think threatening me or actually harming me will cause me to cave, you better think again. I don't think that would be in your interest, sir, seeing that there are witnesses."

Dorothy nodded over to the Townsends, who were exchanging each other frantic looks between the Paradigm rep and herself. The rep, still gritting his teeth, huffed a sigh and sat down. He opened the envelope and looked over the records.

"These seem in order. This copy is for us, correct?"

"Yes."

"Then I see no reason to linger." He got up to leave, but Dorothy stopped him.

"I'm going to need that Form A71, which stops the eviction process until the assessor's office can review their decision. I believe that's a white, yellow, and pink copy?"

The rep groaned and pulled out the paperwork Dorothy had described. He signed the form and gave the copy to Dorothy, who presented it to the Townsends.

"Both of you sign here and here. Date here." Dorothy tore off the first two copies.

"The pink copy is yours. Please secure it." Dorothy slid the Townsends copy to them. She then stood up and handed the white and yellow copies back to the rep.

"It's been a pleasure doing business with the Paradigm Corp. I hope we meet again," said Dorothy with a smile on her face.

The rep grunted and left the premises. The Townsends breathed a sigh of relief.

"We thought he was going to seriously hurt you," said Mr. Townsend.

"He's just a bully. Probably not use to someone putting him in his place."

"Either way, you were amazing, Miss Wayneright. Thank you so much," said Mrs. Townsend.

Dorothy dropped the cool façade and smiled cheerfully at her clients.

"My…friend… he once told me that one has to be flexible. Bold or gentle as occasion demands. I'm glad to be of assistance and I hope if you have any needs in the future, you'll think of our firm to assist you."

Mr. Townsend presented a check for Dorothy, filling in the appropriate information.

"I believe this is the half you requested. The other half is due after Paradigm's decision?"

"That is correct."

"Thank you again, Miss Wayneright."

Dorothy shook their hands and waved as she descended the stairs.

That felt… amazing. But, perhaps it wouldn't be a bad idea to learn some self-defense in case someone decides to get too aggressive. Maybe Roger can…

Dorothy stopped walking, her face turning slightly red, her mouth slightly open.

I guess… Roger has taught me a lot. I called him my friend back there in front of the Townsends. I guess he has always been there for me. He has his moments, but I guess no one's perfect.

She held her hand over her heart and continued walking down the stairs. She stepped outside, looking up at the sky.

I hope… I hope… he's proud of the way I handle the case.

*************************************************************

MEANWHILE…

While Dorothy was busy conducting negotiations with Paradigm, Roger walked the perimeter of the building, eventually expanding to cover the block.

There's really nothing here that I can see that would make this place of value. It's close to the freeway, but other than that, not much. So why's Paradigm having a multitude of clerical errors in the assessor's office? If it were technology or clerical, they normally would come out with an announcement, but none have been made and they keep sending people out to take properties from their owners. There's a clue around here, I'm just missing it.

Roger stopped and surveyed the neighborhood. Perhaps a bird's eye view would provide an answer. He turned around and began walking back to building where Dorothy was located. When he arrived, he looked down the alley near it and saw a fire escape. He looked around him.

No one around.

He shot his grappling hook from his watch and rode the line to the top, landing on the ledge. He stood up and looked around. Nothing was standing out. He looked over the ledges. Nothing. It was just another city block, filled empty or occupied buildings, and people going about their daily lives. Nothing special.

Roger shook his head and stood on the ledge, his back to the edge. He fired the grappling hook from his watch once more and descended the building.

"Glad you're still here."

Dastun, wearing a gray overcoat and gray fedora was in the alley. Roger called back the grappling hook to his watch.

"What are you doing here?" asked Roger.

"I'm surveying the area. Actually, this is a little further than necessary, but you can't be too careful."

"Surveying?"

"Our mutual friend might have a lead." Dastun pulled out an envelope and gave it to Roger. Roger slipped inside his coat. "She has the same information as well, but I figured a second set of eyes would help. The information in there is recent property acquisitions from Paradigm via eviction enforcements the military police have enforced. Use it how you see fit. I'm staking out a place with her later tonight. Apparently, budget for certain sectors of the city are not adding up. There's a lot of money being given to the Paradigm Science Foundation and they already have a set budget. The money in question however is a part of the dome budgets for their maintenance."

Roger grabbed his chin thinking. "Why didn't you or Angel call me with this?"

"Too many ears. She managed to find out through passing conversation where you were at through the assessor's office and asked me to come tell you what she found out. Turns out, I needed to be here anyway to see if there was anything out of the ordinary. It's really not much of a lead though. The rich have always had a luxury inside the domes, so it only makes sense that their living areas have a high budget."

"I suppose, but that has created problems as of late."

"Yeah, mainly for me. The poor outside the domes have been holding rallies about the differences in the economic structure of the city. But they're starting to get rough. It's why many people are leaving for Electric City. Their government does not have the same principles as Paradigm's. But I'll give our mutual friend the benefit of the doubt. She's trying to change that. Did you see the paper?"

"I did. She's opening a college not too far from me. Some support her on the committee, but there is opposition. She's trying to bridge the gap between the dome dwellers and the people who live outside the domes. She's also for expanding the roads connecting Paradigm City and Electric City. Says it will bring Paradigm together with world."

Roger put his hands in his coat pockets and leaned back against the brick building, with one foot resting on the wall.

"Where's the address?"

"105th and Sigmore."

"Isn't that an unfinished construction project? That used to be the hang out for… well… if you didn't want to be caught, it was a good place to go. Hard to get into. Rumored to be haunted."

"I don't buy the haunted part, but the city has cleaned up the area, surprisingly."

"Yeah, that's surprising, considering how long they left it alone. But, things have changed recently, with the reset. Maybe someone's cleaning up their tracks or possibly getting ready for something."

Roger heard footsteps and remained quiet. Both he and Dastun hid in the shadow of the building.

"That stupid bitch, thinks she's a know-it-all. I'll teach her…"

Roger grew red in the face at the sound of these words. Dastun raised an eyebrow as Roger stepped out from the alleyway. The Paradigm rep had his back turned towards Roger, not noticing him.

"Got a problem with my associate?" asked Roger loudly.

The Paradigm rep slowly turned around.

"Negotiator! It's a pleasure to see you."

"Cut the pleasantries. I overheard you. Do NOT ever issue threats to any of my associates. Unless you want to find yourself without a job. Negotiations have concluded for now."

The Paradigm rep snickered as he went over to his car. "It wasn't a threat, though I see nothing ever gets by you. You must've taught that new girl. She's too assertive for her own good."

"She learned from the best, according to the experts. I think it would be wise for you to leave."

The rep from Paradigm got into his car and started it. He revved it a few times, cloaking Roger in the exhaust fumes before speeding off to get back on the freeway. Roger coughed. Dastun stepped out from the alley.

"Thanks… for the… back up," Roger coughed out.

"I'm out, 'sick.' Don't want any word to get back that I'm running around, just in case. What got you all ruffled up about him?"

Roger shook his head.

"I've dealt with him a few times. He can be a bit rough. If that was Dorothy's opposing party…"

"Wait. Dorothy's doing negotiations now?"

"Yeah. She did a good job with getting me back from Beck."

"I guess, but Roger, she's… well she's so… how do I put this? Don't you think this could be dangerous for her? I mean, look at you. You've dodge bullets, giant robots, and monsters. Do you think she has the experience?"

"I think Dorothy does have the experience as well as the brains for this job. She tends to notice things others don't, and having a keen eye is important. She also gets people to open up to her in a way I can't sometimes. And she's been in plenty of dangerous situations with me before. She can think on her feet."

Dastun chuckled.

"What's so funny?"

"Sure, that's the real reason."

"Knock it off."

Roger heard footsteps and saw Dorothy on the landing, looking up at the sky. Roger saw her smile on her face. Roger let her have a moment. Apparently, despite the unprofessionalism from the rep, negotiations went well.

"Dorothy!" he called out to her.

Dorothy turned to see Roger and Dastun. Dorothy continued down the steps and went over to meet them.

"Roger. Chief Dastun. What's going on?"

"You call me Dan if I'm in civilian clothes, ma'am. Roger's being the knight in shining armor," chuckled Dastun.

"What?" Dorothy looked confused, from Roger to Dastun.

"Dastun, I'm warning you…"

"Yeah, yeah, I get it Roger. Anyway, I better get going. I'll see you around."

Dastun turned and walked up the street.

"What's going on Roger?"

"Get in the car and I'll tell you. How'd your first case go?"

"The Townsends seemed very please. We are waiting for Paradigm to review their case."

"Good. Got the rep to sign the forms?"

"Yes."

Dorothy climbed into the car and so did Roger. As Dorothy turned on the car, Roger fastened his seat belt. Dorothy did the same, put the car into gear, and headed to the freeway.

"So why was Dastun here?"

Roger leaned back in his seat. "Angel called him and apparently they had what may be a lead. He gave me some information to look over. He's not sure of it though. He was canvassing the area to see if there was anything peculiar, I suppose. Angel and him are going to do a stake out of a location not too far from here. 105th and Sigmore. Apparently, there's a lot of money going to the Paradigm Science Foundation being classified as part of dome maintenance. They already have a set budget though."

"But isn't 105th and Sigmore inside the dome? Why was he canvasing outside?" Dorothy merged onto the freeway, heading back to the mansion.

"Yes, it is. Dastun's just cautious by nature. He used to do the same thing if I got assigned survey detail with him, surveying the surrounding area by a location. The site itself used to be a construction site of sorts that never got finished. Not sure if things have remained the same since the reset. Apparently, it's been cleaned up. Dome dwellers used to go there if you wanted to exchange something illegal or not get caught."

"Should we go check it out?"

"Probably not, at least until I review this information and follow up on somethings with Big Ear, if needed. We don't know if they have any eyes and ears, keeping a look out. Don't wanna spook 'em. Best let Dastun and Angel handle it for now."

"What about Big Ear?"

"Unless I have something more specific related to the Paradigm Science Foundation, it would be a wasted trip. They have their hands in everything, so the info will be expensive and I'm not sure what I'm looking for just yet. When I looked around the building while you were inside, nothing stood out. Aside that the location's close to the location Dastun and Angel are watching, there's really nothing else. It was…clean."

Perhaps too clean. Even so, probably best not to stir up trouble just yet.

Roger took a glance at Dorothy. There was a reason why Roger was also holding back as well. If Dorothy had been targeted before by this unknown power, as stated by Angel, then she could still be a target, despite not being an android. He knew Angel with her position had an easier access to information about the city and because of her position, that would not raise an alarm, same with Dastun. While Roger had his connections with the military police, he felt that lying low was the best option, until Angel or Dastun gave him something he follow up.

"Roger, can I ask you something?"

"Of course."

"Do Paradigm reps have a habit of trying to intimidate other parties?"

"They do. It all depends on who they assign. Some are nicer than others. I saw the rep you worked with. He tried me once. Didn't end so well for him. Why do you ask?"

"I was wondering… would it be possible to learn some self-defense, just in case?"

"Not a bad idea. But forgive me for asking, don't you know some already?"

"Basic strikes that had a huge impact when I was android."

"Touché. I can teach you some stuff. Most of it was when I was on the force. It's only of any use if you keep practicing though."

Dorothy smiled, taking the exit to go to the mansion.

"Thank you Roger, I do appreciate it."

Roger closed his eyes for a moment, then looked out the window.

I guess she's not mad at me anymore.

*********************************************************************

"Norman what are you doing?"

Dorothy was returning the cleaning items back to the kitchen storage closet after cleaning her room and bathroom. Dorothy had finalized her notes and gave a copy for Roger to review. Roger, pleased with the results, stated he had no new cases at the time. Dorothy decided to do her chores while Roger looked over the files Dastun gave him to see if anything unique stood out related to Angel's case.

"Hello Miss Dorothy. Baking cookies. I see you have finished cleaning. I have some time today for a visit before some maintenance on Big O and cooking dinner. Do you wish to tag along?"

"I don't have anything else to do. I turned in my notes to Roger. He seemed pleased with them."

"That's wonderful to hear. I am sure Master Roger is happy to have such a talented coworker working with him."

Dorothy blushed at Norman's words. She sat down at the kitchen butcher block, enjoying the smell of warm sugar, vanilla, and chocolate. Beside her was a basket that Norman had prepared for his visit. A timer sounded and Norman went over to check on the cookies. He opened the oven door and pulled out the fresh batch. He set them on the block.

"What do you think, Miss Dorothy?"

Dorothy breathed deeply. The smell was heavenly.

"They look and smell good, Norman."

Norman smiled, scooped the cookies off the baking sheet and placed them on a cooling rack.

"They will need some time to cool."

"That works. Let me get changed out of my cleaning clothes."

Dorothy exited the kitchen, taking the stairs to walk up to the next two floors to the living area. She then went to her bedroom and changed, putting on her blouse, skirt, knee highs, and flats. She then touched up her hair, adjusting her headband, and exited her room, taking the stairs back down to the kitchen. When she returned, Norman had a small fan on the cookies, trying to cool them faster.

"It's a trick I learned, for when I'm in a time crunch. And I would like to spend some quality time today."

"Where is it that we're going?"

"There's a clinic down the street that helps those who live outside the domes with all of their health needs. They also happen to run a day care for children whose parents work odd hours. Master Roger has donated to the clinic many times, to ensure it stays open."

Dorothy looked perplexed. "Roger donates to this clinic?"

"Yes, and it's a side of him I wish he didn't keep private, but I understand his reasons. He believes that children are the future of the city and it doesn't matter if they live inside or outside the domes, but they should be afforded every opportunity to be their best selves."

Dorothy waited for Norman as he gathered the remaining cookies and put them in the basket. He closed it and double check the oven to make sure it was off. He turned around and grabbed the basket from the butcher counter.

"Well, I believe that's it. Are you ready, Miss Dorothy?"

Dorothy nodded. Norman exited the kitchen, followed by Dorothy and they proceeded into the lift. Norman hit the button and they descended to the ground floor.

I never thought Roger would do something like this. Then again, he always respected the elderly and woman, so it shouldn't surprise me that he would help the neighborhood. I seemed to be finding out things about Roger I didn't notice before. Maybe I just didn't care when I was android. Was I really that cold? Was I really that cold to Roger? I know sometimes I was annoyed by him, I still am now… But now… all I feel is calm in his presence. I haven't had a flashback----

"What's wrong, Miss Dorothy? You seem lost in thought."

"What? Oh! I'm sorry, Norman. I didn't mean to be so rude."

"You're quite alright dear. Anything I can do to help?"

"Um…"

The lift rang and opened on the ground floor. Dorothy and Norman stepped out, Dorothy rushing to the front door to get it opened for Norman. Norman stepped out and Dorothy shut the door. They began walking down the street.

"So, is there anything I can do to help?" Norman beamed at Dorothy. Dorothy looked at the sidewalk, wondering how to word her question. She turned to look at Norman.

"I'm not sure. I've been wondering about something. You see, I've been having flashbacks until recently. They've kinda stopped. Sometimes they occur at night, but the intensity in which they used to come before, it has dwindled. The journal you gave me helped enormously. I just started on the one Roger bought me, but I haven't really needed it as of late. But… despite him having some moments where he has annoyed me, I feel strangely calm around Roger and I feel like… if I'm around him, he keeps them at bay."

"So, you're wondering if being in Master Roger's presence has anything to do with keeping these memories at bay?"

"Yes." Dorothy turned away, her face turning red. Norman had the etiquette to turn his eyes away from Dorothy and focus them on the street ahead of them. They turned the corner.

"Well, Miss Dorothy, it seems like these memories cause a form of anxiety and by being around Master Roger, it seems your anxiety has reduced. You two are very good friends and when we're around the right people, especially those we can call friends, they tend to bring out the best in us, boost our confidence, and help our sense of belonging."

Dorothy felt her insides squirm. Me and Roger… just friends?

Norman sensed Dorothy's doubt and cleared his throat. "When it comes to relationships, they are like buildings. For example, take the mansion. It has a good solid foundation. Buildings that have a solid foundation can grow and more floors can be added. But, a good foundation cannot be rushed. You and Master Roger have a wonderful, solid friendship, but as I said the other day, that relationship, is evolving. Into what exactly, I do not know. But again, that's something you have to ask Master Roger. I only have my hunches. But I can honestly say, Miss Dorothy, you have been a positive influence on his life. And for that, I'm very grateful."

Dorothy smiled. "Thank you, Norman. I just wonder at times if I actually know him. For example, this clinic he donates to… it surprised me…"

"Well, I guess he could ask the same thing about you, Miss Dorothy. Does he really know the real you?"

"I'm not sure if I know the real me, Norman. I'm trying to sort these memories and my own, the emotions that come with them and my own."

"Ah, I see. Turn left here, Miss Dorothy." They turned once more and continued walking. "Perhaps you need to discover what makes you happy, some self-care. You used to always play the piano, but you haven't as of late. Is this part of the reason?"

"I'm not sure if I ever did enjoy it. I used to sing and dance, and enjoy music… I'm just wondering if that was actually real."

Dorothy smiled sadly.

"Second guessing oneself never bodes well dear. Well, maybe this visit is what you need to cheer you up. Ah, here we are!"

The clinic did not look like much and looked somewhat run down. Norman held the door for Dorothy and Dorothy went inside. While the outside did not look like much, the inside was very well kept. Dorothy walked down the hall, with Norman following her in tow. They reached a counter that said, "CHECK-IN." A woman wearing glasses, her blonde hair, turning gray in a bun, with a short and curvy stature was reading over some paperwork, but looked up and broke into a smile when she saw Norman.

"Norman! To what do we owe the pleasure?"

"I'm bringing goodies for staff and the children, Dr. Plebanski. I believe you have not met our other business associate, Miss Wayneright?"

Dorothy stepped forward and shook the woman's hand. "How'd do you do? You may call me Dorothy."

"It's a pleasure to meet you Miss Wayneright, I mean Dorothy. I'm horrible with names. I'm Mary Plebanski. I'm the head doctor of the clinic."

"Dr. Plebanski, before I forget…" Norman pulled out an envelope. "Master Roger gives his kind regards. Here is your monthly donation."

"Norman, it's Mary. You don't have to be so formal. We've known each other for a while now, you silly goose." Mary walked out from behind the counter. "Let's go see the children."

All three began to walked down the hall. "So, Miss Dorothy, you're a negotiator as well?"

"Yes, I am. This is a lovely place you have here."

"Oh, thank you! I know it can be rough on the outside, but with these donations, we do our best to keep the place tidy. It's hard running a health care clinic. Many use us as their primary care and for some, it can be hard to pay. But, we take care of our patients here to the best of our abilities, so they can live their best life, regardless of the income. Our woman's health unit seems to use supplies the most, but Roger's donations have been a blessing for us. We just got some new, well, shall I say used, equipment for ultrasounds."

She stopped at a door on the right and knocked. "Give me a moment."

Dr. Plebanski stepped inside. Loud child noises met Dorothy's ears.

"Children, I have a surprise guest for you. Are we interrupting anything Carlye?"

"Oh, no. I was needing a break from story time, actually. Please, let them come in."

Norman stepped in first, followed by Dorothy. Loud cheering noises greeted them.

"It's the one eye cookie man!"

"No, he's a pirate!"

"No, he's a one-eyed space adventurer who saved the princess. See? She's behind him."

Dorothy and Norman laughed.

"I wish I were all those things, but I'm just delivering cookies for your story time," said Norman as he set the basket on the table and began passing out napkins and cookies to the children. Dorothy assisted him, observing the room. She saw the piano in the corner of the room, the lid covered in dust. One of the children noticed her looking.

"Do you play Miss?" asked one of the children.

"Oh me? No… well…"

"AWWWWW!"

"Play us a song!"

Dorothy looked at Norman.

"Play us something!" cried one of the children.

"Oh, I… I don't think that would be a good idea. I'm out of practice."

"Awww," the group of children chimed again.

"Now Miss Dorothy, are you really going to disappoint these children?" asked Norman, with a small smile.

Dorothy sighed. She couldn't stand to see their faces so crestfallen. She wandered over to the piano and brushed the dust off the cover, admiring the patina of the stained wood. She lifted up the cover, and sat down on the worn-out bench, the bench slightly creaking under her weight. Dorothy placed her hands on the keyboard and her foot on the pedals.

She slowly began playing a melody, one that she felt like she knew and didn't know at the same time. Its tune, slow and sad at first, then picked up, sounding rich, cheerful, and soulful. Dorothy felt her hands take over, following the keys on the keyboard. Dorothy closed her eyes, feeling the sound, all her emotions pouring into the notes. She felt the muscles in her fingers slowly loosening up and getting used to the movements. Norman stood silently, listening. His one good eye, welling up with a tear, which he brushed away quickly.

If only Master Roger could see this… how his worries would be abated. Oh, Miss Dorothy… it's good to have you back at last.

Dorothy began to move to the beat of the music, moving her head, and shoulders to the music. Some part of her felt alive, waking up, just wanting to hear this song, like she had been in a long dream. The song spoke to her, like it was sad to not have been played in a while, but glad that she remembered. Dorothy smiled, which then broke into a grin, then into laughter.

When the song finally came to an end, Dorothy sat there for a moment, staring at the piano, a love and tenderness in her eyes for the favorite activity she had missed and wonder why she questioned if it was a part of her. She had purposely avoided it because she thought the piano was a part of the old her, something she could not go back to. And yet, it welcomed her like an old friend. Perhaps, it was always a part of her, a good friend she could turn to in need, regardless if she was android or human.

Dorothy's moment was interrupted by the children cheering and clapping, along with Norman, who was clapping harder than anyone else.

"Well done, Miss Dorothy! Well done!" he cheered for her among the happy children, "Well now, I believe that's all that we have time for today."

The children groaned with disappointment. Norman began packing up the basket.

"Please promise us you'll come back. You're a lot of fun, Miss Lady!"

Dorothy smiled at the child and turned to look at Norman.

"As long as I'm not busy, I don't think I'll mind coming back."

"Yay!"

Dorothy got up, walking out of the room, waving goodbye, and down the hall to the entrance with Norman and Dr. Plebanski following her.

"Goodness gracious, that was lovely. That old piano hasn't been tuned in months, and yet, it sounded wonderful. You have a gift, dear," Dr. Plebanski said, "What's that song called?"

Dorothy smiled warmly. "I actually haven't played in a while. The song, I think it's called, 'Merry Go Around of Life,' but it's been so long. But it felt good to play for those children. Would you mind if I come and volunteer at the daycare?"

"Oh no, not at all! I'm sure Carlye would appreciate the help. Please feel free to come down any time."

"Thank you."

"I think it's best we get going, Dr. Plebanski. Best of luck. Master Roger will make his donation around the same time next month."

"Goodbye!" Dorothy called out as they left the clinic and began walking down the street.

Dorothy felt happy and at peace. She was humming the tune she had just played. For some reason, the tune reminded her of Roger. She turned slightly pink at the thought. Norman remained quiet, listening to her happily.

The walk back to the mansion seemed quicker than the walk to the clinic. Before she knew it, they were back at the mansion and walking up the entrance into the hall.

"Well, I need to change into my work out clothes," said Dorothy as they entered, "Roger is teaching me some self-defense today."

"Oh? Indeed! That ought to be fun, Miss Dorothy."

They stepped onto the lift, Norman shutting the gate. As the gift began to rise, Dorothy turned to Norman.

"Norman…. Thank you… thank you for listening to me and helping me figure this out. I… wanna talk to Roger sometimes, but…"

"It's quite okay, dear. I understand. No need to explain yourself. I'm here to help and so is Master Roger. If you ever need someone, we will always be there for you."

Dorothy felt grateful for his words.