Page 30 of Drama Queens Don't Fall For Charming Boys

“I guess if it makes you happy…” I lower myself at my desk.

“I do not feel any happiness because I don’t feel any emotions,” she reminds me. Of course I know this. But sometimes she feels real. Or, she’s come to feel real after all these years. Willow programmed her to be able to adapt, and she certainly has. She’s not the same robot she was nine years ago.

She focuses on the pile of snacks. “Those are all unhealthy snack options, Mia,” she scolds. “I shall go downstairs to fetch you something healthier.”

“You don’t have to do that, WillowBot—”

But she’s already rolling out of my room. She presses a button on the wall, which transforms the stairs into a ramp. Then she makes her way down, disappearing from sight. I’m not worried about her because she’s done this many times before, and Willow made the ramp very safe for her.

I start my homework, but after a few minutes, I can’t concentrate. I keep thinking about what happened during rehearsal. Will I be able to get over the past and work with Declan? Or will my performance be absolutely dismal because of a stupid crush I once had?

I never question myself like this. I’m never so self-conscious. What is it about him that’s making me feel this way?

“House, play classical music in my room,” I say. Maybe it’ll calm my nerves. My sister turned our house into a smart house when she was around my age.

As the gentle music fills my room, I find myself relaxing. I’m not a huge fan of classical music, but I think the occasion calls for it.

“Beethoven’s ‘Fur Elise,’” WillowBot says as she rolls into my room with a plate full of fruit and nuts. “A magnificent choice. Although, I must say this is most surprising, Mia. You never listen to classical music.”

“Yeah, well.” I lift my shoulders and continue my homework.

WillowBot stretches her arms and sets the plate on my desk. “Here you are. A healthier snack option.” She reaches to collect my junk food.

“Hey, don’t take them away!” I try to grab them from her, but her movements are so quick, and my hands grab air instead. “Aw, come on, WillowBot.”

“You are developing bad habits,” she says as she dumps my snacks on my bed. “A healthy snack is vital for a healthy mind.”

“Whatever,” I mutter as I pick up my pencil to work on my math problems.

WillowBot moves closer to me. “Are you all right, Mia?”

“Fine.”

“I beg to differ. Your demeanor is different, and you are frowning a lot. You perform that action when you are upset.”

“I just had a hard day at school.”

“Ah, I understand.” She moves closer. “Do you wish to talk about it?”

“Thanks, but I’d rather just forget about it.”

“As you wish. Do you require assistance with your math homework?”

“That’s okay, thanks.”

I continue working on my problems, but WillowBot remains in her spot, unmoving.

“What’s wrong?” I ask. “Are any of your systems malfunctioning?” I really hope not because I have no idea how to fix her. Willow made sure to run a diagnostic on her during winter break to ensure she’s working perfectly, and she told me she was in excellent condition.

WillowBot moves closer until her wheel touches my shoe. “Forgive me, Mia. It was not my intention to cause you alarm. I only wish I could make you feel better. Perhaps you wish to hug Lady Bunny?” She rolls over to my bed and extends her arm to pluck my three-inch rabbit plushie off my bed.

“Thanks, WillowBot,” I tell her with a smile as I take Lady Bunny and squish her to my chest. “You’re always looking out for me.”

“I do not feel human emotions, but if I did, I am certain I love you.”

“Aww, thanks. I love you, too.” I pick her up and kiss the top of her head. “Even if you are a bit overbearing sometimes.”

“It is only for your benefit.”

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