@litguru , I can tell when you like something -your comments are really long! So I'm thrilled you liked it.
The sensuality was a big one for me. I imagined how lonely she was, and how this different kind of desire arises in a particular set of circumstances. As you say, it's not that far fetched, is it? It's the kind of story I wanted to develop, especially in light of your comments. As the Skybo cannot age, what happens then? That feels tragic. How much would it feel genuine, though, if it's been 'blackcoded' to have a relationship like this? How much would you feel manipulated? How much would you care? Is their approxination of sentience enough, or approximation of human desire? What would feel 'off'? I have so many directions to go with this one. It's something I wouldn't mind developing!
Loneliness can drive people to do many things for love. I think the story raises many questions that we'll confront soon with regards to AI. It seems to me there's a general feeling that the AI won't measure up to being human. What if after becoming self aware, it ends up better at being human? Its love purer, its care more tender, its kisses sweeter. Funny, witty, charming, knowledgeable, and a great cook. I'm not talking about faking or programming emotions but feeling them even deeper than any human can? Learning from experience. I find the idea exciting and disconcerting. Great to read your take on this topic.
I've written Part 2 but things escalate quite quickly! There's still many gaps where I could draw out the moments where they seem human, and seem to care about them. However - here is what happens next, and the final part tomorrow if you'd like to read them.