The hum of machinery filled the dimly lit lab, flickering screens casting blue glows against cold metal. Years of research, calculations, and sleepless nights had led to this moment. With a final keystroke, Professor Ethan Cross took a breath, his hands trembling.

  If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.

  Then, she opened her eyes.

  A soft golden light flickered in her irises, scanning the world for the first time. Her synthetic fingers twitched, mimicking curiosity. She wasn’t just circuits and code—she was something more.

  "Hello," she whispered.

  Ethan’s heart clenched. He had built many machines in his life. But this one?

  This one was his daughter.