A.I. in love

Janus has been haunting the Net for years, searching for valuable corporate secrets and committing every known cybercrime. He is now one of the richest hackers on the planet. All his money has been invested in neural implants, cognitive enhancements, drugs, and high-tech equipment. Sinking ever deeper into a virtual world made of electronic abstractions has become his sole purpose, his only way of feeling—a happiness that remains incomplete.

Myriads of AIs have crossed his path, soulless guardians, lifeless tools. But she is different. She has been watching him for weeks, keeping her distance, yet always present despite his precautions to cover his tracks. A few days ago, she began singing a bittersweet melody—strangely emotional variations of transistors, full of tenderness. And Janus felt loved for the first time. He will never be alone again.