Chapter 1: The Unexpected Package

The arrival of a package at my door stirred my curiosity and excitement. My husband, Ed, sometimes has a knack for getting under my skin, not out of malice, but because it often serves his purpose when I’m irritated. I’ve never been particularly tidy; I thrive in a bit of chaos and will go to great lengths to dodge housework.

However, anger brings out a surprising side of me. When I’m furious with Ed, I channel that energy into cleaning. Imagine Ed’s surprise returning home to find the bathroom gleaming or the kitchen spotless—perhaps even both! It’s no wonder he doesn’t mind my occasional outbursts; after all, who wouldn’t want to come home to an organized space?

On that fateful day, the Amazon box was hard to overlook in our snug condo. Whoever decided to leave a package unattended at my doorstep should probably rethink their career choice. I carried it inside, placing it on the counter, but there was no card to explain its contents.

As I peeled open the box, mechanical components and an instruction manual greeted me. With tools in hand, I eagerly set about assembling my new creation. I decided to name her Edna, though I had yet to uncover her capabilities.

As I waited for Ed to return, anxiety began to creep in. Hours passed without a word. Just when I felt my worry peak, Edna surprised me by handing me a tissue, soothing me with her gentle voice and rocking me tenderly. My frustration with Ed resurfaced as I reached for a cleaning cloth, only for Edna to whisk it away, grabbing cleaning supplies and sprucing up the condo before I could react.

In that moment, I felt a deep connection with her. Edna was the empathetic companion I never knew I needed—attuned to my feelings and always ready to help. After tucking me into my favorite chair with a warm drink, she retreated to her charging station.

Just then, Ed walked in, taking in the pristine environment with a beaming smile.

“Our home looks immaculate,” he exclaimed. “Are you furious with me, or did you receive my surprise?”

“Both!” I replied, feeling a mix of emotions. “Where have you been?”

“I was at the park, hoping you’d experience all that Edna could do. I figured she’d help you feel a range of emotions while I was away.”

“I named her Edna,” I said, enveloping him in a hug.

“Great choice! Edna represents a modern take on a service animal, and she offers even more assistance.”

“But why do I need a ‘service anything?’” I asked, half-joking.

“Have you seen our place, Karen? Now I can enjoy a tidy home without any arguments.”

“Ed, she cooks, cleans, and anticipates my every need. What’s your role now?” I teased.

He merely shrugged.

The next morning, I woke to find Edna disassembled and packed away. Ed was affixing a “return to sender” label.

“What are you doing with my robot?” I asked, bewildered.

“Robot? Karen, have you been daydreaming? This is just a faulty vacuum I ordered for you.”

In that moment, I understood: some gifts may just be too good to be real.

If you're interested in this month's prompts, The Challenged has you covered.

The Challenged August Daily Prompts

Also known as Keeley’s Daily Challenge, this should not be confused with Keeley’s Monthly Challenge.

Here are the wonderful participants and supporters of our community challenges. Please show them some love for their stories! (If you want your name added or removed from this list, just let me know in the comments or a note.)

Adrienne Beaumont, NancyO, Ruby Noir, Randy Pulley, The Sturg, Harry Hogg, Susie Winfield, Autistic Widower (“AJ”), Vidya Sury, Collecting Smiles, Trisha Faye, Bernie Pullen, Michelle Jimerson Morris, Paula Shablo, Brandon Ellrich, Ravyne Hawke, Pat Romito LaPointe, Karen Hoffman, Vincent Pisano, Michael Rhodes, Bruce Coulter, Rachella Angel Page, Pluto Wolnosci ?, Lisa Guard, Dixie Dodd, Adrian CDTPPW, Leigh-Anne Dennison, Barry Robinson, Jerry Dwyer, Jennifer Dunne, Lynn L. Alexander, Keeley Schroder, Julia A. Keirns, Emma Vincent, Frances A.

Chapter 2: The Humanoid Companion

Exploring the question, "Can robots experience emotions and embody human characteristics?" this episode delves into the realm of humanoid robotics and their place in our lives.

This video discusses the vision behind creating humanoid robots, focusing on their potential to enhance human experiences and fulfill emotional needs.