The Joytoy

Midnight rain battered down hard on the neon-lit streets of the futuristic cyberpunk city. All activity outdoors had slowed down to a near halt save for a few late drivers braving the downpour.

But inside, sheltered from the cold and wet, the night life was just starting to heat up.

Cloud 9 was the name of the place. It painted itself as a lavish club that took a highly scientific, minorly invasive, and incredibly personalized approach to providing patrons with the best pleasure experience they could possibly imagine.

In truth, it was just a glorified whore house that found a clever way to siphon information from the populace, and sell to whoever had the creds to do so. It was their worst kept secret, but yet the people who crave to satisfy their carnal desires still came here anyways.

There was someone for everyone at Cloud 9.

Men, women, and those in between would come in, and get their biochips scanned at the front entrance. From there, the personal data was analyzed and a customer would be paired with their perfect joy toy for the night.

Twisting and gasps of pleasure were thinly veiled behind panels of frosted glass, and thumping house music. A man dressed in a leather jacket with a popped collar that contained colour shifting LEDs wandered out of one of the private rooms. Sneakers squeaking across the slick enameled floor, and fixing up the fly on his cargo pants covered in chains. Taking a seat in the waiting lounge with several other spent patrons, pulling a cigarette out of his pocket and lighting it up.

Meanwhile in the room he left, the joy toy let out a long hard breath that faded into a sigh. The haze over her mind and vision fading back in. Coming to consciousness as the program let her go. Her body was sore all over and she let out a groan as she slowly sat up amongst the tangled sheets. She lifted a hand to her temple, lightly touching a metal implant that sat there. A beep rang out, though quiet still sent a wince across her face. A holographic screen appeared in front of her eyes.

[Joy toy session complete - customer satisfied

Transferring credits.]

A number counted up and slid across the screen from one account symbol to the other.

The woman flicked the screen off.

Another lay, another pay. It was a life she hated, but it covered her basics. Rent, food, and her medical subscription service. She got up shakily, donning a silk robe and moving to a chair in the room as she let her senses come back to her. Once she was feeling more stable, she got up once more, deciding to head to the staff lounge and find comfort among the other toys.

But plans changed as her screen popped up on its own with an urgent message.

[High profile customer matched.

Activating deluxe session protocol in 3-2-1]

The woman's vision glazed over once more, before she could even try to abort, and the program took over her mind. Back to a living toy, back to forced obedience, and unfeeling bliss, ready to perform to the customer's whims. The night with this client was a long one. Whoever it was had spent big money, and they intended to get every cent worth of time with their toy. It wasn't until early morning when the customer left. And the toy was released from her mental prison. Her first reaction as feeling rushed back was to yell out in a cry of pain. Everything was sore and tight, and she hated every second of her return to consciousness. After a time to gather her senses, she found herself laying in a mess of sheets. An awakening she often came to.

Eventually she emerged from her cell, and made her way to the common room. The pump of constant club music was quieter up here, but still droned on and reverbed through the walls, and even moreso in her head.

“Eyyy there's the girl of the hour!” Greeted one of the other toys, standing up and making his way over to help her to one of the cushy lounge seats. Her wince in response encouraged him to lower the volume on his next words. “Boss wants to see you, choom, sounds like ya left quite the impression on your client last night.”

The exhausted joy toy slumped into the cushions, and as she did a servant drone puttered over with a tray with a hot cup of coffee on it. The woman took it and sipped slowly. The bitter aroma hitting her nose and bringing some relief to her overloaded senses.

“Don't often get all-nighters” she remarked. “When’s the meeting?”

“Just, take a breather,” responded the other toy. “On your time, but sometime today.” He sat beside her on the lounge seat. Signaling for the little server to get something for him.

“Got it.” She answered.

The two sat in relative silence after they had their drinks. The only real noise was the occasional loud sip, and the soft puttering of the little robot servant doing its various tasks.

It was maybe an hour or two later, when the owner of the establishment stepped out of her office, and spotted the toy she meant to talk to.

“Hey hunny~ you have a moment?” she spoke softly, reading the woman's tired body language.

The woman on the couch looked lazily at the bottom of her empty coffee cup, watching the last few drops slowly dry and stain the bottom. She lifted her head, looking over at the boss and nodding slow. She stood up carefully, and walked quietly over to the office and the boss smiled sympathetically to her as she closed the door behind them.

“I won't ask ya how you're feelin’, its written on your face honey.” Said the woman, her voice was melodious. Soothing and almost motherly in tone, with a hint of a southern accent.  She took her seat opposite of the joy toy she brought in. “I'll keep it short so I don't overload your circuits. You're getting a promotion girl!”

“What?” Remarked the joytoy. “Cloud 9 breaking into Brain Dances?” She asked. That seemed like the most logical jump in her sore brain. If the clients couldn't make it into the club, then why not bring the experience to them with a series of BDs. Then they can get their rocks off at home…and maybe the toys could get money that way. It'd be less stressful on her body that’s for sure.

“No, honey you're about to start making house calls.” The boss chimed up with a grin.

“House calls?” The toy repeated in disbelief. 

The boss held her smile, gleefully going on to explain herself. “Mr. Ratchet, the high priority client that had you booked all night? He's been coming here for weeks, playing with most of my toys. Well turns out you rocked his little world and he wants you to be his arm candy for an upcoming conference he's attending.”

The joy toy leaned over herself in her seat, holding up her hands to support her still aching head and rub at her temples. “Ain't no way.” The toy shook her head in further disbelief, her thoughts stirring up like a cyclone wind starting to form. “I don't even know- I blacked out, it was all the program. I wouldn't know what to do. I can't accept.”

“You can, and you will.” Retorted her boss. The woman's still motherly voice gaining a firmness to it, putting on the pressure and stressing the importance of it. “Ratchet's a big time corpo, lots of money, lots of assets. Things we can tap into if we've got someone on the inside. If we've got you on the inside.”

The joy toy blinked, and was about to interject. When the boss kept going.

“We'll upgrade your chipset to work long range, for when things get steamy. Otherwise, go and enjoy yourself out there. Get that taste of the high life hmm? If this works. Everyone in Cloud 9 is gonna be living large.”

The woman excused the toy so she could get ready. The toy went to her private quarters to … pack, she guessed, and get herself ready.

She had ten hours until a taxi arrived to pick her up.

That left her ten hours to process everything before she was thrown into the deep end.

Hour one, she sat curled up with her knees tight to her chest, on the floor of the shower. Letting the near-scalding hot water rain down on her while she started on processing last night's events. Or trying to, with what little information she had. Why did this high-profiler get hooked up with her anyways? She grew up from nothing, a street rat scrounging for scraps, how the hell did some hot shot rich guy get paired with her?

And why did he want her outside of the club? Especially compared to all the other toys he's apparently played with.

Her unanswered questions smelled like trouble, her thoughts spooling out like red string to put on her mental conspiracy board.

Hour two through four were spent trying to get some precious sleep.

Hour five, she awoke with another nagging feeling.

'Everyone's gonna be living the high life after this' rung in her head. “Bullshit” she muttered. “The gang is gonna guzzle all that up in guns and upgrades, the toys aren't gonna see a single credit.”

Then she wondered, how much did that guy pay? She didn't see the transfer this morning, or didn't remember if she had. She tapped at her temple gently and a screen appeared in front of her eyes. Eyes that went wide in shock as she saw the most recent balance in her account. “Shit”

That was more money than she'd ever seen in her life. High profile was an understatement, even after the house, and madame fees got taken off. She laid back on her bed, flabbergasted by it all. “I gotta know who this freak is” She decided.

The rest of the time was spent getting ready. Packing a few clothes. She didn't have anything particularly worthy of a bougie high style life. But evidently it looked like that wouldn't be a problem much longer if this is how much this man was willing to pay for a toy.

Hour six, and seven were spent applying her makeup, her war paint. To look her best for this mystery man.

Hour eight came with more dread and questioning. Should she have an alias? A fake name a fake background? Should she put on an accent?

Would that be even necessary? How much is this guy gonna care? The boss said herself. She's arm candy, a decoration. A toy to be used, not a person to get to know.

Hour nine she sipped at a couple drinks. Trying to take the edge off.

Hour ten…last minute checks, and breathing through a tight chest as she left her room, her safe zone, into the unknown as she left the club and waited on the curb for the taxi to meet her.

The evening sky was gloomy, and almost seemed to match her mood. The cold wind blowing past her, playing with her bright orange locks of hair. Picking up strength little by little. It seemed another storm was on its way. Thankfully, the toy wasn't going to get caught in it, as the taxi cab pulled up in front of the club.

One of those AI piloted vehicles even. Those were a bit more expensive than just a normal cabbie. The back seat door opened in front of her, and a digital voice rang out from the car’s speaker system.

[“Miss Absynthe I presume?”]

The toy blinked slowly, her stage name taking a moment to register in her head. She was usually blacked out from the doll program by the time names were exchanged, so she'd nearly forgotten what her’s was.

[“Ma’am?”] The car spoke, checking in with the client.

“Yeah that's me.” She replied slowly as she came back to the present. Getting into the back seat and closing the door on herself.

[“Splendid! Welcome aboard. I'm Delamain, your artificial intelligence taxi fleet service. I will be driving you to your destination this evening.”]

“Thanks.” The toy responded quietly. Buckling herself in and watching through the car window as the club passed by her view. Already longing for a return to the familiar. A few minutes of silence passed as she took in the changing surroundings, and looked about the interior of the car.

Everything was immaculate. From the cream coloured leather seats and dash, to the chrome and LED inlays and trims. Not to mention the steering wheel that turned on its own. In the center console was a screen that displayed a humanoid face with a bald head. It's skin, a polished stark white. Along with the collar of a black tuxedo. The face bore a neutral expression, and eyes occasionally moved side to side like it was watching the road. Despite facing inwards.

The other detail the toy noticed. Relieved mostly, though slightly disappointed, at the fact she was alone in the car. “Couldn't even pick me up, hmm? Had to send a cab.” She asked out loud. Guess this wasn't a gentlemanly type.

[“On the contrary, we are on route to pick up Mr. Ratchet. Your stop just happened to be closer and on the way.”] Replied the robotic voice of the car. The face on the center console moving its mouth in time with the words.

The joytoy jumped slightly, not expecting a response. Much less that for a response. She looked down at her lap, and wrung her hands nervously. “I…see.” She replied, then waited in silent dread and anticipation of actually meeting this man.

Several long minutes later and the vehicle pulled into the pickup loop of a towering scraper of a building. One of the corporate castles that ruled the city. Out of it walked a ton of people all dressed in business suits and the like. Everything and everyone is prim, proper, and lifeless looking.

One of these lifeless individuals in particular came strolling up to the car. Phone in hand and deep in a conversation of some sort. The man was tall, broad shouldered, but thin in shape. He had tanned skin and dark hair in an undercut that was tied back into a top knot, revealing the racing stripes shaved along the sides and back of his head. He was human, but like anyone else in this day and age, had a bit of cyberware installed it seemed.

There was a piece of chrome over the bridge of his nose and under his eyes that were currently holding up a pair of tinted lenses. Built in sunglasses that retracted into the device embedded in his face as he opened the car door and sat in. Revealing a collection of freckles dotting his skin, and piercing amber and hazel eyes. He said goodbye quickly to whoever was on the other end of the line on his phone, and hung up. Tucking the device into an inside pocket on his suit.

[“Welcome aboard, Mr. Ratchet. Where can I take you.”] Chimed the taxi cab.

The man looked over to the woman beside him and grinned, then over to the front of the vehicle. “Home, please. Take us home.” He replied, and the car began to drive once more. The car was dead quiet for what felt like forever, but in reality it was only a minute or two. The man leaned over slightly, smiling excitedly, though with a hint of shyness.

“I'm glad you're here.” He leaned back into his seat. “I realize it's all sudden. But thank you for entertaining this whole thing.”

The joytoy looked over, not expecting this almost puppy-dog look from some corpo hotshot. It would've been endearing, if she wasn't feeling like a deer in headlights. “Uh. Yeah, no problem.” She replied.

It wasn't hard to read her intense nervousness. The man recognized it but didn't want to call it out directly.

“I'll give you a tour once we get to my home. Let you get comfortable, and I hope you'll join me for dinner afterwards.”

The woman nodded. “Alright.” Was all she said, unsure of how to act or hold herself.

The man shifted in his seat and held his hand out as a handshake towards the woman. Maybe a proper introduction would help. “I'm Nico, Nico Ratchet.” He stated. “I know your stage name, Ms. Absynthe. Might I have your actual one?”

The woman blinked a few times and carefully reached for his hand to shake it. “Uhm. I don't-'' she paused, then her blank expression shifted to an embarrassed giggle. “Sorry, Uhm. I don't actually remember my name.” She shrugged it off, years of going in and out of the doll program did a lot to her mind. Her actual name she lost a while ago. Having to check her personal ID whenever she needed to remember it, but even then. The name she saw, somehow didn't feel like her anymore. It was a tough time at first, but it was something she had come to live with.

“Really?” Nico asked curiously. “Uh, so, Absynthe it is then, eh?”

The woman nodded. “Yes, I guess so.”

The rest of the ride was filled with awkward small talk until they arrived at the man’s estate. ‘Ratchet Megaplex’ was the sign on the large building. An apartment complex and marketplace all in one. The two made their way past the various food stalls and towards the elevator. Being lifted up to the penthouse estate on the top floor. The silence between the two was palpable, and the only sound that broke it was the quiet mumbling of the television in the elevator that was tuned into the daily news channel.

The ride at last came to a stop and with a ding, the doors parted to allow the passengers off. The immediate hallway was a short one, a door on either side and a living wall and water-feature taking up the space of the far end. One door led out to the rooftop gardens, the other to Ratchet’s estate.

“Welcome home.” Nico announced proudly as he walked slightly ahead of the woman to get the door for her, placing his hand on a scanner that beeps with approval and activated the door. It slid open and the taller man ushered her inside with a soft, but eager smile.

The woman walked slowly, this was the second time he inferred that this was home now for her, and a pattern felt like it was forming. 'This was supposed to be temporary, wasn’t it?' She thought. 'This is a house-call like the madame said…' She tried to reason with herself. Her boss was a momma-bear as fierce as they came, she wouldn’t have signed off on this if she had some sort of faith in this guy. Right? Surely she would come to her rescue if this gets bad…

The woman stepped through the door lightly, telling herself to keep an eye on this guy - but that plan was quickly thwarted by the view. A lavish, pristine, sprawling, open-floor concept room. The walls had sleek dark paneling, and large floor to ceiling windows provided uninterrupted views of the city’s skyline. A wide open living room with a lounge area recessed into the floor. That led into a beautiful dining area and kitchen tucked underneath an upper loft that housed an open bedroom, as well as a couple of other rooms off to the side. A large rounded bed sat in the middle, with a curved headboard that doubled as a garden bed, filled with ferns and other various flora that no doubt thrived with all the natural light the space had.

Absynthe was completely taken by the space that she didn’t notice Nico walking up behind her. He placed his hands on her shoulders gently, though it still made her jump slightly, and she could feel the tension in his fingers, wanting to press down harder but holding back.

“Stunning, isn’t it?” He asked her. “Come on in.” He added, moving beside her, removing one hand in a sweeping gesture as he took a couple steps forward to lead her further into the room, while the other trickled gingerly down her arm, finding her own hand to hold and tug at.

She followed, quietly letting herself be led through the penthouse and all its spectacle. Worrying as she saw the one bed on the loft. Dreading that his intention was to have her share with him. Evidently the fear must have been far too clear on her face. Nico reached out, softly placing his thumb and index finger on the tip of her chin and guiding her head towards him. He noted her eyes, wide and scared like a deer in headlights.

“Miss I assure you you’ll be well taken care of here.” He then shuffled her over to one of the closed doors along the wings of the loft. “I had my study moved, and the space converted into a guest room.” He informed, opening the door to a smaller room though not the slightest bit less dressed as the rest of the suite. With the same large windows, and lavish bed, with various art-nouveau style decorations dotting the walls along with lots of greenery to give the space a lush, fresh feel to it all.

Nico ushered her in and let go of her hand, letting her enter on her own while he stood by the door. “The room’s your’s while you’re here, I’ll give you some time to get settled and unpacked. Dinner’s scheduled in about two hours. I’d like it if you joined me, but I’d understand if you’d prefer some alone time for the evening.”

“Thanks” Absynthe finally spoke up, turning to look at the man on her own finally since arriving. “I’ll consider the offer.” She added, reaching for the door and closing it gently.

Nico stepped back and allowed her to do so, until it was almost closed and then he stopped it suddenly, which caused the woman to startle. “Wait, wait! Sorry - Uh, dress! There’s, I got you a dress. A welcome gift, it’s hanging in the closet.” He stumbled, he then closed the door the rest of the way, giving the woman an apologetic nod for the jump, and leaving her a chance to breathe at long last.

Absynthe stood at the door a moment or two before backing up and turning to look about the room. Her steps were slow, light, and methodical, not wanting to make a sound, like a mouse trying to skirt around a sleeping cat. She made her way to the bed in the middle of the room, brushing her hand along the leaves of a couple of the potted ferns near it. She sat down, staring out the window to the skyline in front of her, then slumped onto her back, nearly sinking into the plush blankets and mattress. “Girl what have you gotten yourself into?” She asked herself, but she had no coherent answer to give.

After a length of time lost to her staring at the ceiling. She sat up once more. Pressing her hand lightly to her temple. Activating the holographic HUD in front of her eyes and calling up her boss with it. “Okay, I'm in. What do I need to do?” She asked.

[“Good to hear sweetie. Stay on the line, I'll upload the remote doll program to your chip.”]

“Accepting the file…wait why does it say beta? It's not done?”

[“Relax honey. The code’s solid, you shouldn't experience any problems.”]

“I better not, that's the last thing I need right now.”

[“Ohhh what's the matter? Cold feet?”]

“He's giving mixed signals big time. It's throwing me off. He says one thing but all his little actions and touches are telling me something else.”

There was a pause on the boss' end of the line.

[“You’re in a position I can't pull you out of so soon. But you've got the doll program to fall back on if you can't handle it. It's only for a couple of days, it'll be worth it I promise.”]

“Can I get a few details on why I'm here?”

[“We need dirt. Supply convoy dates, under-wraps projects, deep dark secrets. Anything we can expose him with.

Ratchet Industries is the biggest corp around and we want the head of the company under our influence. you need to work your magic.”]

Absynthe nodded, not that her boss could see it. “Got it. Okay. Sooner I get info the sooner I can leave, yeah?”

[“You got it honey. Take care, I gotta jet.”]

Responded the boss, before a trill of soft beeps signaled her disconnecting from the call. Leaving the Joytoy alone once more. She let out a long exhale as she contemplated her next move. She kept the HUD on in front of her eyes and checked over the files in the program she'd been given. All of it looked like the normal doll program, save with a few extra bits for the long range connection, and a beefed up vitals scanner. She contemplated turning it on already, but held off in doing so.

Instead she looked to the closet curiously, remembering the mention of a dress. She got up and walked over, sliding the door open to reveal the garment. It was mostly black, a halter top trimmed with metallic gold fabric, and a shark-bite style skirt with an angular patch of the same gold fabric, with a grid pattern stitched into it. A mesh baggy tied closed with gold ribbon was also on the hangar, filled with various accessories. Gold bangles, dangling earrings, a chain necklace, and even a hair band that looked almost like a tiara. Sitting underneath on a carpeted pedestal were even a pair of golden platform heels to match.

Clearly this man spared no expense…

The woman picked up the shoes first, checking the number on the inside of them. Somehow he even got the size right. She questioned whether she should be impressed or creeped out. Deciding on somewhere in between before daring to put the whole outfit on.

The whole thing fit like a glove. She posed a couple times and did a few half-turns in front of a mirror on the closet door. This was probably the fanciest thing she's ever worn. Now she was looking more part of this corpo lifestyle she was being tossed into. Maybe she could pull this off.

She checked the time, it was still a ways off from dinner. So she decided to spend the time to further toy with her look.

Changing up her makeup, playing with her hair. Trying to see what all went well together. There was a more subtle glow to her face now, rather than the caked on ‘street’ makeup she usually wore. Her bright orange hair that normally hung in short, pin-straight curtains, was now tied back in a small low bun, with a few strands framing her face in loose curls. She barely recognized herself in the mirror now. The woman staring back felt nothing like her. Though that was probably for the better, given the circumstances. She was here playing the part of a spy after all, she needed a mask to hide behind.

As time closed in on dinner, she emerged from her room. Carefully and with a subtle bravery that painted itself as a coy expression. She looked about the penthouse and made her way over to Mr. Ratchet.

The sound of her heels caught his attention as he turned to see her walking down the stairs. Like a teenage boy seeing his prom date all dolled up. His eyes were wide and his jaw slightly slack as he took her in.

“...wow” 

He breathed out. Pausing long before catching himself. “Uhm, you look great!”

Absynthe gave a smirk, looking down at herself, then flicking her eyes up at him. “All thanks to you, Mr. Ratchet, you've got quite the taste.”

The man laughed almost sheepishly. “Oh, no please. Please call me Nico. Mr. Ratchet makes it sound like I'm my father.” He corrected, then stepped closer to her. Looking her over several times. “So, you like it right? You look like you like it.”

The woman nodded in response.

“Oh good, good. I'd love to say it was all my doing. But I did pull in help.” Replied Nico.

“That so?” Absynthe asked curiously. There was maybe some intrigue, but already she was testing the waters. Seeing how easy or not it would be to keep him talking.

“The head of my sales department is pretty fashion-forward so I got their advice.” He answered, shrugging his shoulders. “I'm all business suits and dress clothes. So I had to outsource.”

“Well your source did a good job.” Said the woman, doing a little half-twirl in the outfit. 

Nico moved closer with a grin on his face. Giving her a nod in agreement as he reached for her hand. “She did, but we don't need to keep talking about them.” He held one hand in both of his, brushing a thumb against her soft skin as he looked at it, then flitted his eyes up to her. “Miss Absynthe, would you be so kind as to join me for dinner?” He asked with a dignified, posh air. Not wanting to outright assume. Though her acceptance of the dress, and the fact she was out of her room gave him an inkling towards her wanting to go.

The woman nodded with a gentle smile. “I'd be delighted to.” She responded, mimicking his flair. Moving to stand beside him, pulling her hand away and wrapping an arm around his. Ready to assume her role as the candy around it.

The two laughed lightly and made their way out of the penthouse. Back down the elevator which blared the latest news. None of it terribly new however. Gunfights breaking out in midtown, a cyber-psycho tearing up a flood gate. Bodies found in the junk yard. Corpo stocks rising and falling, investigations on city officials that really only served as local soap-opera actors. It was the hotshots with deep pockets like Ratchet that really ran this place.

Nico scoffed in annoyance at the news. “One day this shit’ll get cleaned up.”

Absynthe looked away from the screen and over to the man's face. “Awh, the elevator isn't *that* messy.” She joked to keep the air light. Getting a soft chuckle out of the man. She then looked at the TV again. “It needs a lot of help, that's for sure.”

The elevator came to a stop shortly after the conversation. The two walked out into the megaplex. And through its halls of various vendors. Every waft of street food was calling out to Absynthe, making her realize just how hungry she was. It'd been a full day and she was running on empty. Part of her hoped that dinner would be here - but it wasn't. The duo kept walking through, down to the street level where another Delamain taxi was waiting. Nico helped her inside before getting in himself and closing the door.

[“Evening, Mr. Ratchet, sir. And ma’am guest. Where to?”] Chimed a chipper robotic voice.

“The Golden Chariot, please.”

[“Right away sir.”]

As the two settled in for the ride, Absynthe looked over to Nico. “May I ask why the taxi? I guess I was expecting a private limo or something.”

Nico shook his head. “Too risky. Too easy for fixers and gangs to jump private cars.” He stated. “Instead. Delamain is more discreet. No one expects a guy like me to be using one. That and in the off chance we get tailed. I've got the deluxe premium security package. It's like getting driven around in an armored tank. Just a lot more luxurious.” he further explained, patting the seat cushion between them.

[“Thank you sir, Delamain appreciates your service.”] The car chimed. Seemingly taking the ‘luxury tank' comparison as a compliment.

Absynthe thought for a moment. She'd seen it in the news plenty of time. Officials, corpos, and other higher ups getting mowed down by street gangs and either roughed up or held for ransom, and the occasional tricked out taxis firing back. She looked out the window, then back to Nico. “Makes enough sense. Are guests covered under that package?”

The man nodded. “Yeah, yes, you're just as secure as I am in here. There's no need to worry.” He replied, then squinted at her. “Out of curiosity, why do you ask?”

Absynthe shrugged with a dismissive smile. “I was just curious. Never been on the corpo scene before. If there's some danger involved, knowing about it would help me avoid it, y'know?”

Nico nodded. “Yah, I know. That's smart.” He replied. “But hardly a conversation before dinner. There'll be time for that later.” He pointed out the windows of the taxi. “Especially cause we're here.”

Her attention followed his gesture out the window, looking over the sprawling building, outside had mirror-like walls, surrounding gardens with every leaf trimmed and proper. All leading in to the clean, red-carpeted entrance was trimmed in gold chrome. The roof was tapered and curved in a way that gave a silhouette resembling an old Roman Chariot. If you squinted hard enough at it.

The taxi pulled up out front. Nico getting out first and helping out Absynthe.

The car beeped a cheerful. [“Enjoy your evening!”] Before driving off to pick up it's next passengers.

The couple stepped away from the curb and up towards the entrance of the ornate palace that called itself a restaurant. Greeters welcomed them up the red carpet like some kind of Hollywood event, holding the doors open for them while a few photographers snapped their photos. No doubt they'd be on the news tomorrow morning. Absynthe could see the headlines now. 'Ratchet spotted with a new toy. Who is this mysterious doll?'

They both entered the building, greeted by staff and whisked off to a private table by their server for the evening. As they passed through, the woman took everything in. The walls that were like giant mirrors on the outside were see-through on the inside, giving patrons a nearly uninterrupted, panoramic view of the city, much like Nico's apartment. The place was decorated with a slightly Roman motif, marble pillars with gold inlays provided support while not obstructing the views with extra walls. Hanging vine gardens framed some of the walls like green curtains. The tables were all the same marble as the pillars, and covered in embroidered cloth.

All the patrons were dressed to impress. Gowns, suits, even some more avant-garde style outfits. All of it making Absynthe feel terribly out of place, despite the fancy little gold and black number she was wearing.

They were seated at their table at last, though they weren't dining alone, it seemed. There were others waiting, already seated and sipping at lavishly presented drinks.

“Ms. Absynthe, please meet my other guests tonight.” Nico smiled, gesturing across the table, before pointing folks out individually. “Mrs. Silverado, head of my HR department."

She was a fair-skinned woman with teased out hair and an intimidating radiance under the warm lighting of the restaurant.

"Mr. Theodore Ratchet. My brother and head of accounting."

He looked similar to Nico, but with curly hair and a rounder body shape that made him seem decently friendly. 

"And last but certainly not least. “Mz. Ruby, my sales department head.”

The ebony-skinned individual wore a dazzling gender-confused outfit and drag queen makeup that made her look sassy and debonair all at the same time.

He then gestured to the woman on his arm, before helping her into her seat. “Esteemed colleagues, please meet Ms. Absynthe.” The trio of guests all said their hellos, and a menu was skillfully slipped by the server into both the newcomer's hands.

Absynthe greeted back, then looked over to Nico in surprise. She was under the impression it would be just them this evening.

He caught her gaze, returning an apologetic dip of his brows for a moment, before his eyes darted to his menu.

She then turned her attention to her own and perused through. Her eyes went wide again, but this time in wonder at the choices. Meals with meat! Real meat from a cow, pig, or chicken was a very rare treat. Traditional farmland was a commodity, something only the elite could afford to eat from, - which made sense why it was here.

The common rabble didn't have such a thing. Meat was an artificially made paste that looked like a poor excuse for ground beef. Or if people were lucky, some of the lucrative street vendors sourced their own meat from rats and insect farms.

Nico leaned over to her with a soft smile. “Get whatever you want.” He spoke quietly. “I've got you covered.”

Absynthe looked up to him, giving a nod and a smile back. “Thank you.” She mouthed, though that still didn't narrow down what she should get.

“So. Ms. Absynthe, was it?” Spoke up Silverado. “Where are you from?”

“Inner city.” Responded the joytoy, her attention quickly shifted from the menu to the woman across from her.

The intimidating business woman tilted one of her shoulders up in a half-shrug, the motion emphasized by her suit's shoulder pads that were practically plane wings in size. “I see, and, what company are you part of?” Silverado asked, curious but her tone implied she was indeed trying to pry.

“I’d prefer not to disclose.” Absynthe answered. She looked quickly over to Nico, who frowned at her slightly, but she hoped there was an understanding there at least. She's not about to announce her status as a prostitute.

Silverado waved a hand dismissively before picking up a martini glass to sip from. “A private affair? I suppose I should respect an NDA." She took another couple sips before flashing her eyes to Nico. "Not getting shady on us, are you, Mr. Ratchet?"

Absynthe let out a soft breath of relief that the focus shifted.

Nico shook his head, and let out a light chuckle. "No, no, nothing of the sort, I promise. Ms. Absynthe here will be part of a new project I'm putting together."

All eyes at the table turned to him attentively.

"Do go on." Silverado insisted with a goading tone.

Nico looked about the table, setting his menu down on the table and resting his hands clasped together on top of it, leaning forward as if he was about to deliver a board meeting speech. "A revitalization plan for the inner city. I want to clean up the absolute mess this place is, and the lovely Absynthe here will be helping me pinpoint what areas need the most help."

An array of intrigued hums broke out amongst the guests at the table, everyone surprised at the man's revelation.

"As your brother, I approve of your philanthropy, but as your head of accounting, I can't help but be a little concerned, Nico. I don't think there's a budget big enough in the world to clean up Inner City." Theodore spoke up first. He set his drink down on the table, and fidgeted with the napkin-wrapped cutlery in front of him. "I'll need an extensive proposal from you before any bit of this gets started."

The server came around once more, trying not to interrupt as he brought water and champagne to the table.

“Your orders?” He asked once Theo had stopped speaking, looking towards Nico and Absynthe.

“Chariot special, please.” Nico answered.

“Uhm…the same, please.” Absynthe added. She hadn't actually been absorbing what she was reading on the menu, and hadn't gone back to it once the interrogation started. She was quite hungry though, so anything would be grand.

Nico turned his attention back to his brother and nodded. "It likely won't be cheap no, and yes I will write up a business model for you before anything is truly set in stone. But I think the long-term benefits would be worth it. A cleaner, healthier inner city would open up more employment opportunities, housing options and lessen gang activity."

"A very intriguing idea, Mr. Ratchet. I think you may be dreaming a little too big, but I'm curious to see how this goes." Silverado responded, while she reached for the water pitcher left on the table and poured herself a glass.

A new voice piped up, chipper and excited. “Oh so this is the Cloud girl!” Chimed in Mz. Ruby. Adjusting one of the peacock feather spacers that adorned her stretched earlobes. "That's the outfit I picked out, isn't it?" They asked. Wanting to break the tension that seemed to be setting in at the table with something else.

“Why yes it is.” Nico proudly confirmed, reaching over and patting Absynthe's hand gently and smiling at her.

“You look wonderful in it darling, why it's almost like it was made for you. Am I good or what?” Ruby carried on, clapping their hands in a small applause to their own genius.

Absynthe couldn't help but smile at the other person's confidence. She gave a small nod. “I love it.”

“Cloud girl?” Theo repeated. A bewildered smirk grew on the brother’s face. “Cloud as in Cloud 9? That sex club you've been going to?”

Nico didn't confirm outwardly, but his silence and cornered expression said it all for him.

“Mr. Ratchet!” Silverado exclaimed in shock. Fanning herself as if she might faint. “What were you thinking?” The woman looked on in desperate disgust, hoping for an answer that could save her view of her employer. “I hold you in a great deal of respect, but in all my years I have never heard something so absurd!”

Nico put his hands out in a ‘calm down' motion towards her. “Silverado please I can explain-”

“You mean to tell me that you've pulled up some slut from the streets, and put her in a position of power? Preposterous! Mr. Ratchet you are no Prince Charming, and she is certainly no Cinderella.” The woman interrupted.

Absynthe rolled her eyes. She was just as surprised as anyone was to find out what exactly Nico’s plans were for her. But, no one else at the table knew that, especially not this awful lady, and she could use that to her advantage, especially with getting closer to Nico. She stood up from the table. Hands placed down firm as she leaned over. Her brow furrowed and her eyes piercing like daggers at Silverado.

“With all due respect ma’am, a little slut from the streets is exactly what Mr. Ratchet’s project needs.” She started, an electric crackle coming from her finger joints and up and down some of the wires that contoured her body with a subtle threat of force, acting like she was holding back as she continued with intensity. “Who better to point the efforts exactly where they need to go, who better to talk to the people and get them on board? Inner city doesn't take kindly to you corporate types with your $300 hair and high rise homes. But they'll listen to one of their own.”

The crackle of energy died down, and she stood straight once more. “and don’t be so quick to dis your boss. It'd look bad for HR.”

With that, Absynthe finally sat back down, a smirk on her face as Silverado gawked speechlessly, looking around at the others at the table.

Both the brothers looked surprised at each other, and Ruby was grinning ear to ear at the street kid’s moxie. “Oh I knew I was going to like you.”

Before anyone could say anything else, the server strolled up with a shiny cart containing everyone's meals for the evening. He called out each dish as he placed them swiftly. Then promptly refilled glasses and pitchers.

“Your dinners! Bon appetit!” The server said, then with a quick turn of his cart, he was off again. Leaving everyone to eat their fill…if they had any room after snacking on the evening’s big revelation.

Absynthe looked at the plate in front of her, nearly drooling at the spread. A large piece of grilled steak, sauteed veggies, mashed potatoes smothered in gravy, a full cob of corn lathered in butter and various seasonings. The whole thing smelled divine, and she couldn’t wait to dig in. She unraveled her cutlery from the napkin that held them, looking amongst the table as everyone else looked at their meals as well, all in silence while her display still hung heavy in the air.

Nico looked over to his guest, mouthing a ‘sorry’ to her, before turning his attention to the rest of the table. “Ladies and Gentlemen, I believe that concludes the business portion of the night - shall we break and enjoy dinner as friends?” He proposed, lifting a champagne flute in a solo-toast before downing about half of it, setting the glass on the table, and digging into his food.

“Don’t gotta tell me twice!” Ruby agreed, and the other two at the table nodded quietly. Theo chasing his flabbergasted expression down with a swig of his own drink, and Silverado with a glued on grimace as she began cutting into shepherd’s pie like meal on her own plate.

The rest of dinner went off mostly without a hitch, everyone’s mouths were too full to say anything to each other. Absynthe especially enjoyed it, practically melting into the first few bites at the amusement of most of the table - except Silverado, but it seemed there was an unspoken agreement to just ignore her pouting for the rest of the evening.

As plates were finished, chatter began again.
"So, how long will you be staying?" Asked Ruby.

Absynthe shrugged her shoulders and looked over to Nico as she wiped her mouth with a napkin.

Nico returned her gaze then turned to Ruby. "As long as she needs to while we get this project underway."

"Oh wonderful! Then we'll have lots of time to get to know each other." Ruby said excitedly.

Absynthe smiled to the shining Mz. Ruby as she set her napkin down on her plate, noting the smudge of lipstick on it, as the server came by once more and cleaned up the table.

"Desserts tonight?" he asked.

Nico, Ruby, and Theo all chirped out yesses to him. Meanwhile Absynthe was so full she couldn't contemplate eating more, and Silverado was apparently too sour in her mood to go for something sweet.

"Very well! I'll get you menus in a moment." The server smiled as he finished gathering up all the used dinnerware and went on his way.

Absynthe used the brief moment to pat Nico's hand gently. "I'm just going to go freshen up-" she spoke quietly, and started tracing her finger in circles on the back of his hand. "Menu comes around before I get back, surprise me with something?" She said with a wink, despite being full, well she couldn't help but wonder what high-life dessert was like. She then excused herself from the table and tracked down the restroom.

Once inside she tucked into the first empty stall she could find and sat down, taking a big, deep breath to try and shake off some of the tension running through her body. What a circus she's found herself in...

While in the relative quiet, she pressed a hand to her temple to bring up her HUD display once more, this time to send a couple of quick texts to her boss.

[RiCorp apparently working on revitalization project for inner city, I'm the poster-child 🙃

...might be here for a hot minute

associates are major sharks, no trust in this guy, might be able to use that 🤔

keep you posted.]

A response came in soon after.

[Corpo caring about the rats under his boots? What a laugh. Just in it for the press buzz I bet]

...Nice work baby girl, hang in there. 💜]

[Yah, for real. Later.]

She brought the HUD down, and took a few moments to herself in the stall before stepping out and over to the washroom mirror and sink counter. She examined her makeup, pulling out a little powder bag she'd tucked in a pocket under the skirt of her dress, and touched up a couple spots.

It was at this point when the washroom door opened, and through it stepped Silverado.

She too approached the mirror, standing beside the joytoy as she looked her own face over. "I'm leaving." She stated. "Seeing as my presence isn't wanted here." The woman's eyes met Absynthe's in her reflection in a glare. Before stepping away and walking past the toy to leave. Stopping directly behind her and leaning over to whisper. "Enjoy it while it lasts. If I catch you ruining him in any way, there won't be a shred left of you to send back to the whore house you came from."

With her threat made, Silverado left the other woman in silence.

Absynthe waited until she left before moving. A shiver ran down her spine as the door closed, but she shook it off and finished up what she was doing, then made her way back to the table. The faces of the others all showing a bit of disappointment until she came into view, softer expressions welcoming her back.

She glanced to the empty seat, then to the others. Best to enjoy the company that was here, rather than dwell on who wasn't.

Dessert came quickly. The men both indulging in chocolate cheesecake, Ruby had herself ice cream topped with maple sugar, and Absynthe was presented with a plate of fresh strawberries, stuffed with whipped cream. Her eyes fluttered and she fell back into her seat as she tried the first one. A look of pure elation on her face. Any attempts at looking professional was thrown out the window, as she just stared at the fruit she was eating with amazement.

When she does finally go back...she'll certainly be missing the food.

Pleasant small talk filled the rest of the evening. With the storm cloud that was Silverado having lifted, it seemed everyone was now in a lighter mood. As Absynthe eased in to the group, she was slowly growing less scared, feeling less alien. It almost felt like late nights with the other toys, sitting in the lounge and taking it easy. Almost.

There was still a ping in the back of her mind, reminding her not to get too cozy, but for now, she was giving herself permission to enjoy it all, just a bit.

The sounds of traffic droned on as the two passengers inside the taxi remained silent. Stuffed and processing the meeting and meal they were returning home from.

Absynthe was curled up tight in her seat, leaning against the window and lazily watching all the city lights flow by them. She held on to her stomach, already starting to feel uneasy.

She wasn't used to eating like that, and she was quickly filled with a delicious regret as her body groaned in complaint that she'd eaten something and so much out of the norm.

Nico quietly looked through his phone, scrolling through various apps and news stations. He then looked over to Absynthe, growing with concern as her complexion was even more pale than usual, and maybe even a little green. "Woah hey, you okay?" He asked, tucking his phone away and reaching his hand over to gently rub at her shoulder.

The woman shook her head slow. "I just need'a lay down for a while."

Nico nodded to her. "Alright, uhm. We'll be home soon." He pulled his hand away and looked out the windows to get a feel for where they were. "Delamain, any chance on a shortcut?" He spoke up.

["Re-routing in progress...

...shorter route found, we'll be reaching the destination in five minutes."] The taxi chimed. Switching lanes along the road carefully.

"Awesome, thanks." Nico replied, and watched as the vehicle changed course.

Eventually they got back to the megaplex, Nico helping Absynthe out of the car. She wanted to walk on her own, but weakness was setting in quicker than she liked.

“Its okay, I got ya.” Nico said quietly, wrapping an arm around her shoulders and helping hold her up.

Reluctantly, Absynthe leaned into him, trusting him in the moment as they walked together through the halls of the large building, to the elevator, and up to the penthouse apartment once more.

Nico walked the woman over to the couches in the middle of the living space, setting her down gently as she groaned in discomfort.

“Can I get you anything?” Nico asked.

Absynthe shook her head. “I just need some time.”

Nico nodded. “Take all the time you need.”

He left her alone a moment, to his kitchen where he poured some water in a glass and brought it back over. Sitting it on a console table beside her.

There was a bit of silence. Before Nico spoke up again. “Sorry by the way, about Silverado. And…springing guests on you in general.”

Absynthe rolled onto her side to look at him, holding her stomach and rubbing at it gently. “Hmmm, yah, that wasn't cool.” She spoke up. “So is that really what I'm here for? Your poster child for a cleanup project?”

Nico shook his head with a shy smile. “N-no. I made that shit up on the spot to try and distract them from the whole toy thing.”

Absynthe snickered through a pained expression. “It didn't work.”

“No it did not!” Nico laughed again, “sorry.”

He then went quiet in thought for a bit. “Is it such a bad idea though?”

Absynthe considered a response, until a harsh bubbling started inside her gut.

She shot up immediately and hobbled over to the kitchen, barely making it to the sink as she began to wretch.

Nico stared stunned. “A no would've sufficed.” He commented. Getting up and following her awkwardly to check on her.

Absynthe was unaware of his approach in her sickness. Jumping slightly as she felt his hands gingerly brush her bright orange hair back and held it out of the way for her. His other hand rubbing her back gently.

Absynthe reached over shakily to the faucet and cracked it, letting the water rinse out her mess. She cupped handfuls of water to her mouth a few times to clean up and get out the bad taste. She heaved and hissed as she tried to gain some composure again.

“F-fuck, sorry…sorry.” She croaked.

“No, no don't be, you'll be okay.” Nico hushed. “Just take your time. Need me to call a med lift?”

“My health subscription can't afford a med lift.” the woman spittled. “specially not fer something as little as an upchuck.”

Nico reached for a clean dish cloth and handed it to her. She took it and patted her face dry. She looked down at the cloth, now smeared with makeup and bile. She brought it under the faucet that was still running, and rinsed it out. She turned off the water after a bit and wrung out the cloth. Setting it on top of the faucet to air-dry.

“I'll be fine.” She repeated. Both for herself and for Nico. “Just need’a lay down.” She finally stood up from leaning over the sink. Holding a hand to cover part of her face in an attempt to hide the embarrassing smears of makeup as she turned to face the man hovering right behind her.

Absynthe lifted her other hand and placed it on Nico’s chest, pushing him back gently to give herself more room. “Goodnight.” She said simply, then made her way to the guest room.

Nico didn't stop her, just looked on like a confused, sad puppy. “If you need anything just let me know! Good-good night.”

Sleep had been another hurdle for Absynthe that night. Not only was she nursing her aching body, but her bed was foreign. The plush mattress and expensive sheets were heavenly but she couldn't help but miss her lumpy old bed at home. The indents that contoured her body in her usual sleeping position, her heavy quilt blankets, the pillows with covers made from old band t-shirts. It all felt so far away.

She tried to look at it all in a different light. She could hear the sarcastic remarks of the other toys:

Down feather blankets, silk sheets and pillows, a bed twice the size of her apartment, all to herself?

Oh woe is her. Whatever will she do!

She rolled over in the bed, and sat up. The windows had automatically tinted overnight, dimming the harsh morning light. But it was still far too bright for her. She squinted, is this why higher ups always had tans? Sitting in their towers and basking in the sun.

She shook her head to get out of it, and decided to get dressed for the day. She paused again. None of her clothes matched the corpo aesthetic except the dress from last night that now hung in the closet again.

She looked amongst her small collection, and opted for comfort over fashion:

Her Cloud 9 hoodie, simple leggings, and cozy socks.

By the time she’d gotten everything on, there came a knock at her door. With Nico’s voice behind it. “Are you decent?”

“Never.” Absinthe answered with a giggle. “I’m dressed though, you can come in.”

The door opened slightly at first, the man peeking in to confirm it was ok, before letting himself in further.

"How'd you sleep?"

Absynthe shrugged her shoulders. "Fine."

Nico nodded with a smile. "Good, good. Uhm. I called medical. They sent some cal-carbs, and said to take a few when you're not feeling great." He made his way over to the woman sitting on the bed, hand held out with a bottle of calcium carbonate tablets.

Absynthe looked at him in disbelief for a moment, but took the bottle anyways. "You really didn't have to do that. But. Thanks" She read the label over in her hands, it was a nice thought, that he cared enough to get her medicine. But at the same time, paranoia nagged the back of her mind. Anyone can just put a label on a bottle. She couldn't be sure he wasn't lying to her. She set the bottle on the night stand by her bed and smiled over to the man. "I'm feeling fine right now, so I'll wait."

Nico nodded and shrugged his shoulders. "That's fine, and it was no trouble, really."

Absynthe looked down at her simple clothing, sure must be nice to have actually good medical coverage. She then forced a well-practiced smile and looked back up to Nico. "So! What's the plan for today?"

Nico patted down the well-tailored brown vest he wore over a white dress shirt. "Well! I'm off to work, and I was hoping you'd join me. Take a tour 'round the office, and I'll fill ya in on the conference that I'm bringing you to.”

Absynthe nodded, then sat up on the bed, displaying herself. “And they'll be okay with street kid couture?” She asked, tugging at her sweater. “Silverado might have an aneurism.”

Nico chuckled. “don’t worry. We’re taking a detour with Ruby through the fashion district.”

Absythe’s eyes lit up in excitement. “No way, The Mod?” She asked. That was the biggest, trendiest mall for the rich and fashionable.

“I feel spoiled~” she hummed. “Keep this up and I might not want to leave once it's all over.” She said with a smirk. Making direct eye contact to Nico. Who met her gaze with a shy grin, before darting his eyes away from her.

His actions making her wonder if he had a small hope that she would stay after all this.

But no time to dwell on the what-ifs. She jumped up from the bed and made her way over to Nico. “Well what are we waiting for?” She asked. Grabbing her purse on her way passed him and through the bedroom door. “Don't wanna keep Ruby waiting.” She was halfway across the apartment in a flash. Heading towards the door to leave.

Nico smiled at her eagerness. “Yeah! Yeah of course, just let me finish getting ready.” He answered, then headed back up the stairs to get the last of his own outfit together.

The ride to the big shopping center was another courtesy of Nico’s favourite taxi service.

Though this time, rather than sitting awkwardly beside him. Absynthe got to sit beside the exuberant Mz. Ruby.

Something about them gave her a sense of comfort.

Their flair and confidence mirrored the toys she missed. She didn't understand it yet, but Ruby felt a little bit like home.

The vehicle was full of chatter between the two of them. Ruby sharing style photos and asking questions to find the perfect collection for Absynthe to wear.

It was hard to tell who was more excited. Nico however sat in the front passenger’s seat, quietly searching the brand names the two mentioned on his phone and going wide eyed, and dry-mouthed a few times.

Money wasn't much of an object for him - but the prices he was seeing sure had him second guessing this outing.

But before he could say anything, they arrived.

["Dear Passengers, welcome to The Mod"]

Spoke the taxi, the doors opening automatically for the people to leave.

The view before Absynthe was another thrill.

She only ever saw photos of the front of this shopping center.

The entrance looked like grand doors to a Cathedral. The roof multicolored glass. The walls a vibrant, clean white brick. The courtyard boasting a large water-feature with a stone statue of a robotic arm in the center. With clear tubing holding it aloft, it held the illusion of floating in mid-air, and water cascading off the outstretched palm of its hand as if it were delivering this life-sustaining liquid to the masses.

As the trio stepped out of the vehichle and made their way towards the entrance. Absynthe taking a moment to admire the courtyard.

Ruby chuckled at the woman's excitement. "Oh darling you're adorable." they cooed. "Its like I get to relive my first time here~ Now come along. We've work to do."

Absynthe pried her eyes away from the statue above the water feature, and over to Ruby as they lead the way inside.

The grand doors opening wide to welcome them in.

Inside was just as exciting, if not more.

Lengthy hallways and several floors spread out as far as the eye could see, all housing stores offering the best in fashion, design, cosmetics and cybernetics. EDM and club beats pulsed through the place. Not from a radio station, but from live DJs and performers deeper within the labyrinth of consumerism. The corridors were lit with black-lights that picked up the flashy neon colours of all the signage around.