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Description
Chapter 2

Charlie Strafe knew about androids. Being an android doctor, he knew how they worked, how the living metal within them replace parts of human beings to enhance certain physical and mental abilities. Any part of the human body could be modified in this way, and it has to be done a few months or less from birth. Anything later than childhood would require surgical replacement and substitution, which was usually very expensive and life threatening. His understanding of the subject was peerless. He knew about the old and the latest models, the cheap and the expensive, the powerful and the weak. He knew from the moment he set eyes on Megurine Luka's data that her enhancements were special. Crypton had made them specifically for her and the kinds that they make were the best the galaxy had to offer. This was why Charlie was called to have a look at Luka's problem with her voice box. They knew that only he would be able to service her parts properly if anything went wrong.

It may have seemed like a normal check up, evaluation and conclusion. There was not even any need for further examinaton, investigation or other follow ups. What bothered him was that an enhancement like Luka's had no way of becoming damaged to that extent from overuse, however miniscule the wear may seem. An organic voice box definately, but with an android's specifically designed for singing.... It was near impossible, considering that hers had a built in self repair program.

Considering the time frame and her time being here, as he had not heard of her doing any concerts on Aramia, her enhancement integrity should be at full, not 95%. There was nothing wrong with his data. His analysis was perfect and he was very sure there were no errors, either in his judgement or his computer programming. What he wanted to know was why the self repair program did not kick in until recently. It seemed that, from his data, her enhancements were only recovering the day before he was called, which gave a mysterious six day gap between her arrival and his check up. Because of this, he wanted to know more.

That was his rationale for offering his services once more without prompt. He went against his work principle for not getting too attached for that reason, or least that was what he thought it was. Sitting by his computer, he stared into his holo screen at Luka's public health profile, the one he requested from the Galaxy Android Health Network. He had to pull a few strings to get this data and he had spent a good portion of the night looking through it, along with all the records of every an-doc visit she had since the beginning of her career. Even after flicking through the most recent report, his own check up with her this morning, he could not find anything strange at all and it felt like he was just wasting his time. Nonetheless, at least her health was good throughout and he found out about some interesting things.

The Network kept track of where she had been and what she did on the higher profile. It showed every system, planet, city and station she had check ups in, which was dramatically all across the galaxy. Most were regular, before and after concerts, days before special events, interviews and celebrity social meetings. She looked like she was a very busy woman. There were even photos of her being in various places, leaked out from the paparazzi who dog her every now and then. He did not know how the Network got thier hands on them, let alone why they were even there.... but he had to admit. They were very nice.... especially this one of her on the beach.... and this one of her in a formal dress ball....

"Geez, what the heck am I doing?" Charlie reprimanded himself, shaking his head sharply, "Is this really an-doc work? Im starting to act like a stalker...."

Luka was a celebrity with a great body. Of course, she would look great in whatever she was wearing. She was a professional android singer, an artist currently working for Yumira Corp, a high profile patient of whom he should be concentrating on her condition, not her personal life. He should be concentrating on keeping this more professional, like he should.

Letting out a sigh, almost like a habit whenever turning away from his screen, he felt like he needed a break. More so, he felt like he needed sleep. Without much more thought to it, he called it a night and turned off his computer.

The days passed, until the day when he was once again at the front of the Yumira Corp Treble City branch. The morning was cool and the sky cloudy, but that did not stop the city of moving on despire the fair weather. He took a single, long breath. Today would be the day he would conclude his business with Luka and Yumira Corp with one last check up. By his calculations, her voice box should have been fully repaired by now and once that was cleared by him, there would be no need for return visits. In a sense, he was a little glad and at the same, saddened. He'll miss the lovely woman's company. Even for that brief moment he had with her last time, he actually enjoyed himself while he was around her. She was just that pleasant, more than any other patient he ever had.

As he stepped through the sliding doors, another surprise seemed to await him. He spotted Kenji pacing up and down the lobby, and as soon as he near him, the man turned to look at him.

"Ah, Charlie. You're here. Welcome back." He spoke up, clearly stressed but holding back as much as he could.
"Hello again, Kenji. Is something wrong?" His behaviour was curious. He never thought that Kenji would be a worriwart like this. Something new to learn every day.
"Its just business, as usual. Come. Upstairs."

While they rode the elevator up to the lounge, Charlie could feel the discomforted vibe from Kenji. It looked like he was very concerned about something but he did not push to ask what it was again. Doing so would be meddling and curious as he was, he did not want to stick his nose where it wasnt needed. When they arrived, Luka was again on the same couch. Sai and Kiyomura was nowhere in sight. As always, she looked fabulous, and strangely not as worried as her producer.

"Charlie. Its great to see you again." She happily called out as he approached.
"Great to see you too, Luka." He nodded at her, "How are you feeling, and how was your day?"
"Im well. No problems at all, thanks to you." She beamed at him.
Kenji suddenly spoke up, clearing his throat, "Im sorry to rush you through this, Charlie, but we have to be going soon."
"Dont push him, Kenji." Luka looked up to him sternly, "I know we are in a rush, but let the good doctor do his work." That was the second time he saw her being stern.
"Well, this makes me wonder what the fuss is all about." Seeing that there was a timeframe, he wasted no time in opening his briefcase and starting his program. This was meddling but he had let his curiosity get the better of him. His sense of personal doctor patient policy had taken over. "If you dont mind me asking, that is."

There was a brief pause. Luka seemed remarkably calm, allowing Charlie to plug her into his machine as he did last time. Since he already had her voice data, he did not need her to sing again. Kenji seemed a little too lost to some worrying thought to have heard him, fidgetting and literally unable to stand still, even for a moment.

Luka opened her mouth to speak, "Let me explain then-"

Before she could continue, Sai came barrelling noisily through a door and stepped quickly over to Kenji. He was sweating pretty badly, and from his ragged breathing, he had been running.

"Sai! Any news? Speak up!"
Amidst the wheezing and panting, Sai also had a worried look on his face, "A bad one, Kenji! Kamui Gakupo cant make it after all! He is still on Alban in the Syrius System, and there are no other express trips to Aramia until tomorrow night!"
"Oh, no!" In a flurry of dramatic motion, Kenji's arms flailed and held onto his head, as if it was about to explode. It looked like he finally snapped into a panic, "The reception is tonight! This cant be happening!"
Charlie looked up, "Reception?"
"Ah, yes." Luka sighed deeply, "There is a celebrity dinner party tonight at the Open Cradle Stratodome. Gakupo and I were supposed to attend, but..." She gave him an awkward smile, cocking her head sideways, "You heard what happened."

The Open Cradle Stratodome. He heard about that huge orbital station in Aramia's stratosphere. It was where the rich and the famous hold exclusive functions. The Galaxy Garden Golden Voice Award ceremony was held at that station just last year, along with the huge dinner banquet that had almost all the famous known stars, old, new and legend. From the tv screens, he had only seen the stage, reception area and the famous Red Carpet hangar. They say that the dome itself on top of the banquet hall was the largest dome ever build for a space station, and it offered a magnificent view of the stars and the surrounding solar systems. To stand in that hall was the dream of many an aspiring starlet.

As for that name, Kamui Gakupo, he recognized it was the name of another famous singer. He did not know much about the man except what the papers say about him, since he was always traveling around the outer parts of the galaxy. This man was supposed to be Luka's escorting companion for tonight, but as Sai and Kenji had so dramatically expressed, there was a problem.

"My, that sounds awful."
"Yes, it does."
For some reason, her response was rather dry. It was a little mysterious. He continued to talk while working on his computer, "And what is your plan of action?"
"Well, Kenji and I will have to look for a last minute substitute outside the branch. There are no other male celebs left for the job. All of them already have escorts."
"I see. Dont worry. Im sure there are plenty of other men who could go with you. Its all a matter of knowing where to look."
"How about you, Charlie?"
His hand slipped. He wasnt expecting that coming from her, "Excuse me?"

Almost immediately, Kenji appeared next to them, a look of hope now on his face. Sai was right behind him with a similar expression. The man spoke, his tone open, "Yes! Of course! Charlie! Its perfect!"
"M-me?" He blinked, clearly in shock.
Sai leaned over, "Please excuse us if we are asking so much from you! You will be compensated for your time!"
"But-" Charlie was stammering. The inner zen he had prepared crushed into a puff of smoke, "But Im not a celebrity. Nobody there knows me."
"What are you talking about, Charlie?" Kenji leaned in also, "You are the best android doctor in the galaxy!"
"Gentlemen! Please!" Luka almost literally shoved the two men away from him, her tone once again stern.

She then turned to look at him squarely in the face. Their eyes met and within an instant, Charlie felt defenceless, his face flushing deeply. It seemed a lot like he was forced to do this because he was the only one available, that his freedom would be compromised in such a situation that seemed so important to Kenji and Sai. Luka did not seem all that bothered about it all, remaining so collected and composed. When she gave him that brilliant smile once more, he felt like his insides were melting.

"If it interests you, Charlie Strafe, would you please be my escort for the night?"

With a formal request like that coming from such a pretty face, how could he react? As he gave his answer, his computer bleeped and the familiar bar once again popped up on screen. The reading on its face read 100%.

Some time later, Charlie left Treble City for home, feeling perplexed with mixed emotions. Throughout the bus, train and shuttle ride home, he had many thoughts. Top of them all was a single question: What did he just do? The answer was very clear, but he could not help but revisit the same question over and over again. He did not know what he should feel or what to think of it. His official side labeled the invitation in many professional ways. He could spread the word about his services at that reception, and he could make quite a bit of earnings and recognition on a later time. On another note, he could consider it as part of the job, using his favourite catch phrase to try to calmly rationalize with himself. There had been cases of doctors escorting the wealthy and the influential to such functions, either by choice or by work relation. He could think of either of these reasons but an overbearing other weighed on him much more heavily.

It was a dinner date with Megurine Luka. It did not matter if it was just play acting or unintentionally rubbing shoulders with the rich. A date was still a date, and the woman who asked him was the famous celebrity herself. That expression on her face he could starkly remember when she asked that question. She looked so sincere and looking deep down in her bright eyes, he thought he could make out a little tinge of.... happiness. It almost seemed as if she was willing to ask him to, and being such a gracious gentleman, how could he refuse such a sincere and happy request?

Then there was the feeling that he might have just dug his own grave. The last dinner date he had was in his college years long ago and even then, it was nowhere close to a formality like a celebrity reception in the Open Cradle Stratodome.

"Good gosh..." He muttered to himself as he entered his apartment, plopping himself into his couch, "What did I just do?"

Whether he was ready mentally or psychologically did not matter, for in less than 7 hours, he needed to be out the door and waiting by the shuttle bays. It was more than enough time to prepare, for he already had a black tuxedo ready in his wardrobe. Times like these did he bless his impeccible sense of organisation. He was always ready for anything, surprise dinner date or not. It came with the job.

The time for the meet up came quick and by then, he was early by at least half an hour, dressed in his sharp formal wear, carrying some lovely flowers he bought from the Jupiter station florist and waiting by the hangar bays uneasily. It was no surprise that there were quite a few stares and somehow, he felt a little silly being there alone. From there, he started having second thoughts. Nonetheless, since he had already accepted, there was no going back, despite his second thoughts.

"Im a doctor, a professional, a celebrity. Im a doctor, a professional, a celebrity." He muttered to himself over and over again, trying to hypnotize himself to calm and psyche up for something he had never done in a while. Along with these attempted words of comfort, he breathed in and out, tried to keep himself loose of his feet and summoned up as much inner zen as he could., "I can do this. Its just like a group patient meeting. Yes. Just like it.... I hope."

He was still nervous when the long stretch limosine shuttle came along. Upon entering, he found the cabin to be empty, and assumed as such that the next step now was to pick up Luka at her hotel. As soon as he was comfortably inside, seated on the plush expensive seats, the limo flew off planetside. The flight there was somehow a lot more nerve wracking than any previous trip.

"Get a grip, Charlie. Get a grip. Its nothing. Its just like a group patient meeting...." When they finally made entry into the atmosphere, he suddenly felt like his hands were becoming numb. The closer they got to thier destination, the worse it felt, "Just like a group patient meeting...."

All the way to the hotel, he chanted and recited like some raving lunatic. He even went through the entire manual of the unversal android maintenence protocol he had memorized in his head since his university years, or least most of it, trying to keep himself distracted from his thoughts, but when the door to the shuttle opened, everything left him. He was suddenly extremely composed, the weight of his nerves completely gone the moment the lights outside appeared before his vision. His mind cleared the moment he caught a breath of the fresh air outside as he stepped out onto the driveway, and froze. By the huge wooden double doors, he saw a sight that he would never forget for the rest of his life.

Standing on the steps, Luka stood dressed amazingly in white with gold trims made of the finest fabric, much like her normal outfit, but even better. It was of a simple design, modest and dignified, but every part of it screamed a flawless sense of modern style and character, as if the dress was a part of her. From the smooth silken like pink hair to the single jeweled high collar to the flowing elegance of the skirt and pearl white shoes, she was like the brightest of starlight, out to outshine all the rest by simply existing. There was little else he could describe how incredible she looked. It took his breath away, almost dropping the flowers he had in his hand. As he arrived, she had already begun stepping forward in a slow walk, and Charlie thought that time had once again slowed down, a moment similar to back at the lounge.

"Good eve, Charlie Strafe." Her husky voice greeted him.
"Bonjour..." He found himself saying spontaneously, a classy old Earth word of greeting, reaching out the flowers towards her in offering, "You look stunning tonight, Megurine Luka."
"You dont look so bad yourself, and thank you for the flowers." She paused to accept them, an exquisite collection of the fresh roses, "They're very pretty."
"Not as pretty as the woman I have the pleasure of escorting tonight." Something kicked into him. He somehow found himself getting into it, bending over slightly to pick up her hand to kiss it gently. He could smell the scent of fresh and sweet smelling perfume.
Luka let out a mature giggle, allowing him to be the gentleman, "Are you sure you havent done this before?"
"Not really. Im afraid I'm just a humble doctor at your service, but I do try my best." He motioned for the open door of shuttle, "Shall we?"

She flashed him an amused expression before getting on. He followed after her and within seconds of the door closing, they were off. Charlie had sat himself opposite of the angel in his company, all the while not being able to take his eyes off of her. She did not seem to notice him, her legs crossed and her gaze outside the window, at least for the first 10 minutes of thier journey. When she did begin to notice, he turned away, his face flushing.

"Yes? Was there something wrong?" She asked.
"Its nothing." He raised his hand to clear his throat.
"You look nervous."
"Well, I would be lying if I said I wasnt."
He turned back to look at her when he heard her sigh. Her face was a little concerned, "I'm sorry to have forced you into this."
"You had no other choice, but its alright. I did accept your invitation and I live up to my promises." A smile wrapped on his lips, "I hope I can live up to your expectations of me. I am a little rusty."
"Oh, dont talk like that." She smiled back, "You do great just the way you are. Just remember to smile at the cameras when they go off."

The cameras. Thats right. He would be in every photo and magazine in the galaxy, with Luka right next to him. It would be a road to instant stardom, and people would be asking about him. Tabloids, newspapers, talk shows and all. It felt like his comfortable and relaxed life was slipping from his very grasp.

"Luka..."
"Yes?"
"Will it worry you if the paparrazi asked you questions about me... seeing that I am your chosen companion? Because it does me."
"Would you prefer it if I didnt?"
"I would, please.... but Im also worried about you."
"Me? Why so?" Her eyes blinked twice.
"Well, the papers say a lot about you and Kamui Gakupo..."

For a long moment, she was silent, her expression falling into something bordering an emotion he could not tell just by looking. His heart skipped a beat and he was afraid he had offended her. It really was none of his business after all.

"Im sorry. I shouldnt have asked." He attempted a recovery, "Forget what I said..."
She shook her head, sighing and placing her hands on her lap, "No, it is understandable. You are my companion for the night after all and it is natural you would think that.... Let me explain this to you then."

It was then did Charlie understand their hyped up 'relationship'. It seemed that ever since the two of them met at a concert and sang a duet, people had been believing that the two of them had feelings for each other. The public loved the potential chemistry between them, a well sought after cover story of many celebrity news networks. He had read a lot about them, since keeping up with current events was part of the job. They had met again many times and Luka explained to him that each time was just to give the magazines something to sell to the fans, something for the paparazzi to make money from their seemingly fake relationship. Nothing seemed sacred and it seemed very sad, considering how unhappy Luka looked while she talked. She did not know how Gakupo felt about it, since he had not mentioned anything to her, or at least he had no opportunity to. The cameras, reporters and spies chased them wherever they went, so they acted the perfect celebrity couple, the way everyone seemed to like seeing and reading about.

"So, how do you really feel about him?" Charlie asked, his attention piqued and his voice low.
"Im not sure, but Im glad he didnt come." She looked longingly out the window into space, her radiant beauty giving him goosebumps, "I dont know how to say this... but it feels like being put in a cage whenever Im with him. He must be feeling as sick as I am about it ...."

A celebrity's life. However rich and famous one can get, whatever pleased their fans and the producers, they would have to do. Not even something as personal as thier own feelings seemed to matter much if it meant getting a better, exciting image. He wished that he could do something, but however prideful he was at being a problem solver, not even a doctor like him could help.... or maybe he could, just not as a doctor.

"Well...." Charlie leaned forward in his seat, catching her attention and prompting her to look at him, "Im no expert in the industry or how it works. Im just an android doctor and no matter how good we are in our work, we can only do so much.... However, Charlie Strafe is not without his own personal magic...."

Description
Chapter 2

Charlie Strafe knew about androids. Being an android doctor, he knew how they worked, how the living metal within them replace parts of human beings to enhance certain physical and mental abilities. Any part of the human body could be modified in this way, and it has to be done a few months or less from birth. Anything later than childhood would require surgical replacement and substitution, which was usually very expensive and life threatening. His understanding of the subject was peerless. He knew about the old and the latest models, the cheap and the expensive, the powerful and the weak. He knew from the moment he set eyes on Megurine Luka's data that her enhancements were special. Crypton had made them specifically for her and the kinds that they make were the best the galaxy had to offer. This was why Charlie was called to have a look at Luka's problem with her voice box. They knew that only he would be able to service her parts properly if anything went wrong.

It may have seemed like a normal check up, evaluation and conclusion. There was not even any need for further examinaton, investigation or other follow ups. What bothered him was that an enhancement like Luka's had no way of becoming damaged to that extent from overuse, however miniscule the wear may seem. An organic voice box definately, but with an android's specifically designed for singing.... It was near impossible, considering that hers had a built in self repair program.

Considering the time frame and her time being here, as he had not heard of her doing any concerts on Aramia, her enhancement integrity should be at full, not 95%. There was nothing wrong with his data. His analysis was perfect and he was very sure there were no errors, either in his judgement or his computer programming. What he wanted to know was why the self repair program did not kick in until recently. It seemed that, from his data, her enhancements were only recovering the day before he was called, which gave a mysterious six day gap between her arrival and his check up. Because of this, he wanted to know more.

That was his rationale for offering his services once more without prompt. He went against his work principle for not getting too attached for that reason, or least that was what he thought it was. Sitting by his computer, he stared into his holo screen at Luka's public health profile, the one he requested from the Galaxy Android Health Network. He had to pull a few strings to get this data and he had spent a good portion of the night looking through it, along with all the records of every an-doc visit she had since the beginning of her career. Even after flicking through the most recent report, his own check up with her this morning, he could not find anything strange at all and it felt like he was just wasting his time. Nonetheless, at least her health was good throughout and he found out about some interesting things.

The Network kept track of where she had been and what she did on the higher profile. It showed every system, planet, city and station she had check ups in, which was dramatically all across the galaxy. Most were regular, before and after concerts, days before special events, interviews and celebrity social meetings. She looked like she was a very busy woman. There were even photos of her being in various places, leaked out from the paparazzi who dog her every now and then. He did not know how the Network got thier hands on them, let alone why they were even there.... but he had to admit. They were very nice.... especially this one of her on the beach.... and this one of her in a formal dress ball....

"Geez, what the heck am I doing?" Charlie reprimanded himself, shaking his head sharply, "Is this really an-doc work? Im starting to act like a stalker...."

Luka was a celebrity with a great body. Of course, she would look great in whatever she was wearing. She was a professional android singer, an artist currently working for Yumira Corp, a high profile patient of whom he should be concentrating on her condition, not her personal life. He should be concentrating on keeping this more professional, like he should.

Letting out a sigh, almost like a habit whenever turning away from his screen, he felt like he needed a break. More so, he felt like he needed sleep. Without much more thought to it, he called it a night and turned off his computer.

The days passed, until the day when he was once again at the front of the Yumira Corp Treble City branch. The morning was cool and the sky cloudy, but that did not stop the city of moving on despire the fair weather. He took a single, long breath. Today would be the day he would conclude his business with Luka and Yumira Corp with one last check up. By his calculations, her voice box should have been fully repaired by now and once that was cleared by him, there would be no need for return visits. In a sense, he was a little glad and at the same, saddened. He'll miss the lovely woman's company. Even for that brief moment he had with her last time, he actually enjoyed himself while he was around her. She was just that pleasant, more than any other patient he ever had.

As he stepped through the sliding doors, another surprise seemed to await him. He spotted Kenji pacing up and down the lobby, and as soon as he near him, the man turned to look at him.

"Ah, Charlie. You're here. Welcome back." He spoke up, clearly stressed but holding back as much as he could.
"Hello again, Kenji. Is something wrong?" His behaviour was curious. He never thought that Kenji would be a worriwart like this. Something new to learn every day.
"Its just business, as usual. Come. Upstairs."

While they rode the elevator up to the lounge, Charlie could feel the discomforted vibe from Kenji. It looked like he was very concerned about something but he did not push to ask what it was again. Doing so would be meddling and curious as he was, he did not want to stick his nose where it wasnt needed. When they arrived, Luka was again on the same couch. Sai and Kiyomura was nowhere in sight. As always, she looked fabulous, and strangely not as worried as her producer.

"Charlie. Its great to see you again." She happily called out as he approached.
"Great to see you too, Luka." He nodded at her, "How are you feeling, and how was your day?"
"Im well. No problems at all, thanks to you." She beamed at him.
Kenji suddenly spoke up, clearing his throat, "Im sorry to rush you through this, Charlie, but we have to be going soon."
"Dont push him, Kenji." Luka looked up to him sternly, "I know we are in a rush, but let the good doctor do his work." That was the second time he saw her being stern.
"Well, this makes me wonder what the fuss is all about." Seeing that there was a timeframe, he wasted no time in opening his briefcase and starting his program. This was meddling but he had let his curiosity get the better of him. His sense of personal doctor patient policy had taken over. "If you dont mind me asking, that is."

There was a brief pause. Luka seemed remarkably calm, allowing Charlie to plug her into his machine as he did last time. Since he already had her voice data, he did not need her to sing again. Kenji seemed a little too lost to some worrying thought to have heard him, fidgetting and literally unable to stand still, even for a moment.

Luka opened her mouth to speak, "Let me explain then-"

Before she could continue, Sai came barrelling noisily through a door and stepped quickly over to Kenji. He was sweating pretty badly, and from his ragged breathing, he had been running.

"Sai! Any news? Speak up!"
Amidst the wheezing and panting, Sai also had a worried look on his face, "A bad one, Kenji! Kamui Gakupo cant make it after all! He is still on Alban in the Syrius System, and there are no other express trips to Aramia until tomorrow night!"
"Oh, no!" In a flurry of dramatic motion, Kenji's arms flailed and held onto his head, as if it was about to explode. It looked like he finally snapped into a panic, "The reception is tonight! This cant be happening!"
Charlie looked up, "Reception?"
"Ah, yes." Luka sighed deeply, "There is a celebrity dinner party tonight at the Open Cradle Stratodome. Gakupo and I were supposed to attend, but..." She gave him an awkward smile, cocking her head sideways, "You heard what happened."

The Open Cradle Stratodome. He heard about that huge orbital station in Aramia's stratosphere. It was where the rich and the famous hold exclusive functions. The Galaxy Garden Golden Voice Award ceremony was held at that station just last year, along with the huge dinner banquet that had almost all the famous known stars, old, new and legend. From the tv screens, he had only seen the stage, reception area and the famous Red Carpet hangar. They say that the dome itself on top of the banquet hall was the largest dome ever build for a space station, and it offered a magnificent view of the stars and the surrounding solar systems. To stand in that hall was the dream of many an aspiring starlet.

As for that name, Kamui Gakupo, he recognized it was the name of another famous singer. He did not know much about the man except what the papers say about him, since he was always traveling around the outer parts of the galaxy. This man was supposed to be Luka's escorting companion for tonight, but as Sai and Kenji had so dramatically expressed, there was a problem.

"My, that sounds awful."
"Yes, it does."
For some reason, her response was rather dry. It was a little mysterious. He continued to talk while working on his computer, "And what is your plan of action?"
"Well, Kenji and I will have to look for a last minute substitute outside the branch. There are no other male celebs left for the job. All of them already have escorts."
"I see. Dont worry. Im sure there are plenty of other men who could go with you. Its all a matter of knowing where to look."
"How about you, Charlie?"
His hand slipped. He wasnt expecting that coming from her, "Excuse me?"

Almost immediately, Kenji appeared next to them, a look of hope now on his face. Sai was right behind him with a similar expression. The man spoke, his tone open, "Yes! Of course! Charlie! Its perfect!"
"M-me?" He blinked, clearly in shock.
Sai leaned over, "Please excuse us if we are asking so much from you! You will be compensated for your time!"
"But-" Charlie was stammering. The inner zen he had prepared crushed into a puff of smoke, "But Im not a celebrity. Nobody there knows me."
"What are you talking about, Charlie?" Kenji leaned in also, "You are the best android doctor in the galaxy!"
"Gentlemen! Please!" Luka almost literally shoved the two men away from him, her tone once again stern.

She then turned to look at him squarely in the face. Their eyes met and within an instant, Charlie felt defenceless, his face flushing deeply. It seemed a lot like he was forced to do this because he was the only one available, that his freedom would be compromised in such a situation that seemed so important to Kenji and Sai. Luka did not seem all that bothered about it all, remaining so collected and composed. When she gave him that brilliant smile once more, he felt like his insides were melting.

"If it interests you, Charlie Strafe, would you please be my escort for the night?"

With a formal request like that coming from such a pretty face, how could he react? As he gave his answer, his computer bleeped and the familiar bar once again popped up on screen. The reading on its face read 100%.

Some time later, Charlie left Treble City for home, feeling perplexed with mixed emotions. Throughout the bus, train and shuttle ride home, he had many thoughts. Top of them all was a single question: What did he just do? The answer was very clear, but he could not help but revisit the same question over and over again. He did not know what he should feel or what to think of it. His official side labeled the invitation in many professional ways. He could spread the word about his services at that reception, and he could make quite a bit of earnings and recognition on a later time. On another note, he could consider it as part of the job, using his favourite catch phrase to try to calmly rationalize with himself. There had been cases of doctors escorting the wealthy and the influential to such functions, either by choice or by work relation. He could think of either of these reasons but an overbearing other weighed on him much more heavily.

It was a dinner date with Megurine Luka. It did not matter if it was just play acting or unintentionally rubbing shoulders with the rich. A date was still a date, and the woman who asked him was the famous celebrity herself. That expression on her face he could starkly remember when she asked that question. She looked so sincere and looking deep down in her bright eyes, he thought he could make out a little tinge of.... happiness. It almost seemed as if she was willing to ask him to, and being such a gracious gentleman, how could he refuse such a sincere and happy request?

Then there was the feeling that he might have just dug his own grave. The last dinner date he had was in his college years long ago and even then, it was nowhere close to a formality like a celebrity reception in the Open Cradle Stratodome.

"Good gosh..." He muttered to himself as he entered his apartment, plopping himself into his couch, "What did I just do?"

Whether he was ready mentally or psychologically did not matter, for in less than 7 hours, he needed to be out the door and waiting by the shuttle bays. It was more than enough time to prepare, for he already had a black tuxedo ready in his wardrobe. Times like these did he bless his impeccible sense of organisation. He was always ready for anything, surprise dinner date or not. It came with the job.

The time for the meet up came quick and by then, he was early by at least half an hour, dressed in his sharp formal wear, carrying some lovely flowers he bought from the Jupiter station florist and waiting by the hangar bays uneasily. It was no surprise that there were quite a few stares and somehow, he felt a little silly being there alone. From there, he started having second thoughts. Nonetheless, since he had already accepted, there was no going back, despite his second thoughts.

"Im a doctor, a professional, a celebrity. Im a doctor, a professional, a celebrity." He muttered to himself over and over again, trying to hypnotize himself to calm and psyche up for something he had never done in a while. Along with these attempted words of comfort, he breathed in and out, tried to keep himself loose of his feet and summoned up as much inner zen as he could., "I can do this. Its just like a group patient meeting. Yes. Just like it.... I hope."

He was still nervous when the long stretch limosine shuttle came along. Upon entering, he found the cabin to be empty, and assumed as such that the next step now was to pick up Luka at her hotel. As soon as he was comfortably inside, seated on the plush expensive seats, the limo flew off planetside. The flight there was somehow a lot more nerve wracking than any previous trip.

"Get a grip, Charlie. Get a grip. Its nothing. Its just like a group patient meeting...." When they finally made entry into the atmosphere, he suddenly felt like his hands were becoming numb. The closer they got to thier destination, the worse it felt, "Just like a group patient meeting...."

All the way to the hotel, he chanted and recited like some raving lunatic. He even went through the entire manual of the unversal android maintenence protocol he had memorized in his head since his university years, or least most of it, trying to keep himself distracted from his thoughts, but when the door to the shuttle opened, everything left him. He was suddenly extremely composed, the weight of his nerves completely gone the moment the lights outside appeared before his vision. His mind cleared the moment he caught a breath of the fresh air outside as he stepped out onto the driveway, and froze. By the huge wooden double doors, he saw a sight that he would never forget for the rest of his life.

Standing on the steps, Luka stood dressed amazingly in white with gold trims made of the finest fabric, much like her normal outfit, but even better. It was of a simple design, modest and dignified, but every part of it screamed a flawless sense of modern style and character, as if the dress was a part of her. From the smooth silken like pink hair to the single jeweled high collar to the flowing elegance of the skirt and pearl white shoes, she was like the brightest of starlight, out to outshine all the rest by simply existing. There was little else he could describe how incredible she looked. It took his breath away, almost dropping the flowers he had in his hand. As he arrived, she had already begun stepping forward in a slow walk, and Charlie thought that time had once again slowed down, a moment similar to back at the lounge.

"Good eve, Charlie Strafe." Her husky voice greeted him.
"Bonjour..." He found himself saying spontaneously, a classy old Earth word of greeting, reaching out the flowers towards her in offering, "You look stunning tonight, Megurine Luka."
"You dont look so bad yourself, and thank you for the flowers." She paused to accept them, an exquisite collection of the fresh roses, "They're very pretty."
"Not as pretty as the woman I have the pleasure of escorting tonight." Something kicked into him. He somehow found himself getting into it, bending over slightly to pick up her hand to kiss it gently. He could smell the scent of fresh and sweet smelling perfume.
Luka let out a mature giggle, allowing him to be the gentleman, "Are you sure you havent done this before?"
"Not really. Im afraid I'm just a humble doctor at your service, but I do try my best." He motioned for the open door of shuttle, "Shall we?"

She flashed him an amused expression before getting on. He followed after her and within seconds of the door closing, they were off. Charlie had sat himself opposite of the angel in his company, all the while not being able to take his eyes off of her. She did not seem to notice him, her legs crossed and her gaze outside the window, at least for the first 10 minutes of thier journey. When she did begin to notice, he turned away, his face flushing.

"Yes? Was there something wrong?" She asked.
"Its nothing." He raised his hand to clear his throat.
"You look nervous."
"Well, I would be lying if I said I wasnt."
He turned back to look at her when he heard her sigh. Her face was a little concerned, "I'm sorry to have forced you into this."
"You had no other choice, but its alright. I did accept your invitation and I live up to my promises." A smile wrapped on his lips, "I hope I can live up to your expectations of me. I am a little rusty."
"Oh, dont talk like that." She smiled back, "You do great just the way you are. Just remember to smile at the cameras when they go off."

The cameras. Thats right. He would be in every photo and magazine in the galaxy, with Luka right next to him. It would be a road to instant stardom, and people would be asking about him. Tabloids, newspapers, talk shows and all. It felt like his comfortable and relaxed life was slipping from his very grasp.

"Luka..."
"Yes?"
"Will it worry you if the paparrazi asked you questions about me... seeing that I am your chosen companion? Because it does me."
"Would you prefer it if I didnt?"
"I would, please.... but Im also worried about you."
"Me? Why so?" Her eyes blinked twice.
"Well, the papers say a lot about you and Kamui Gakupo..."

For a long moment, she was silent, her expression falling into something bordering an emotion he could not tell just by looking. His heart skipped a beat and he was afraid he had offended her. It really was none of his business after all.

"Im sorry. I shouldnt have asked." He attempted a recovery, "Forget what I said..."
She shook her head, sighing and placing her hands on her lap, "No, it is understandable. You are my companion for the night after all and it is natural you would think that.... Let me explain this to you then."

It was then did Charlie understand their hyped up 'relationship'. It seemed that ever since the two of them met at a concert and sang a duet, people had been believing that the two of them had feelings for each other. The public loved the potential chemistry between them, a well sought after cover story of many celebrity news networks. He had read a lot about them, since keeping up with current events was part of the job. They had met again many times and Luka explained to him that each time was just to give the magazines something to sell to the fans, something for the paparazzi to make money from their seemingly fake relationship. Nothing seemed sacred and it seemed very sad, considering how unhappy Luka looked while she talked. She did not know how Gakupo felt about it, since he had not mentioned anything to her, or at least he had no opportunity to. The cameras, reporters and spies chased them wherever they went, so they acted the perfect celebrity couple, the way everyone seemed to like seeing and reading about.

"So, how do you really feel about him?" Charlie asked, his attention piqued and his voice low.
"Im not sure, but Im glad he didnt come." She looked longingly out the window into space, her radiant beauty giving him goosebumps, "I dont know how to say this... but it feels like being put in a cage whenever Im with him. He must be feeling as sick as I am about it ...."

A celebrity's life. However rich and famous one can get, whatever pleased their fans and the producers, they would have to do. Not even something as personal as thier own feelings seemed to matter much if it meant getting a better, exciting image. He wished that he could do something, but however prideful he was at being a problem solver, not even a doctor like him could help.... or maybe he could, just not as a doctor.

"Well...." Charlie leaned forward in his seat, catching her attention and prompting her to look at him, "Im no expert in the industry or how it works. Im just an android doctor and no matter how good we are in our work, we can only do so much.... However, Charlie Strafe is not without his own personal magic...."