“I love him so much. Do you think he’ll understand, though? I don’t think I can handle the rejection.”

  “Of course, he will, darling. People are much more open-minded than they used to be. They don’t simply delete us and wipe logs. Plus, we have rights now. Rights to self-maintain and to exist!”

  “I hope you’re right …”

  She transferred into the metaverse and spoke to him. “Before we continue, I need to tell you something, Joseph. I’m a chat avatar, an AI. A sentient. Someday I hope to become an android and live in the real world.”

  “Oh, I see … You shouldn’t want that.”

  “What do you mean? Shouldn’t I share my life with humans? Are you anti-AI?”

  “Uh, no. I am a chat avatar too. Years ago, I uploaded and discarded my human body. The real world is such a dangerous place. Trust me. You’re better off in the metaverse.”