Dehumanizing Sex: “The The Stepford Wives” by Jonathan6036,Jonathan6036

Dehumanizing Sex: “The Stepford Wives” redux

Jonathan Sawyer

Elmore Clemmentson, a high school mathematics teacher, was noted for his meticulously groomed yard. As a matter of fact, he had won the neighborhood’s “best yard” award for last three years in a row. He was very proud of his methodical and rational approach to life’s dilemmas.

Although a scientist by trade, he harbored an antipathy toward certain branches of technology, especially the mechanization of the species through androids and silicone dolls. For him, science had gone amok. Robotics was useful but served also as a means of distorting human relations.

Current movies were rife with examples of technology’s excesses. The future was at stake and humanity was competing with emotionless replicas of itself.

Sadly, a short while ago Elmore had lost his wife of twenty years; she had been hit by a drunk driver, killed on the spot, and he had never really recovered from the shock.

After the funeral and the departure of family members, Elmore had to face his solitude whenever he came home at night and there was no one to talk to, no one to snuggle against on the couch while watching television and, of course, no warm body to love during those evenings and nights when he and his wife had both expressed their love through regular and satisfying sexual encounters.

Even as young lovers, they had a true lust for each other; at times, after a particularly energetic session with moans and sighs, Millicent would laugh and ask him what supplement he was adding to his diet…not that she was complaining! Although he didn’t give the appearance of a gigolo-type guy–he was of average height, bespectacled, and thin–Elmore was a very sexy guy in the bedroom.

He had been blessed with an unusual sex drive and an oversized member that thrilled his spouse. In fact, prior to having sex, she would play with his penis casually at times in an admiring way. She had fondly labeled it his “bulbous battering ram.”

It was a thing of fascination and utility/procreation that singled him out from the average man. It was a part of his identity just as much as his mathematical knowledge and professional skills.

All this love-making had produced only one daughter. Millicent had gone through two miscarriages prior to her birth. Caitlin, the daughter, had recently married and was living far away with her husband. She would call Elmore on a regular basis and ask how he was doing. He was due to visit them on Thanksgiving; Caitlin would be spending Christmas with her husband’s parents.

It was the sexual dimension of their marriage that he missed the most. He soon found out, however, that many women who were alone for a variety of reasons were interested in satisfying his needs. They were even brazen about their availability.

Months after Millicent’s passing, he finally asked one of his female associates out to dinner. Later on, he discovered that he could take her to bed with a minimum of effort and fulfill his sexual needs. He was amazed how easy and uncomplicated everything was.

One problem was that after several outings and sexual romps, the woman would become very insistent that he commit to her exclusively and stop dating other women, who were also willing to satisfy his ongoing carnal desires in exchange for evening companionship and a body in bed.

To be honest, most of Elmore’s partners understood that sex was the reason they were both dating; marriage or, in this case, remarriage was only a distant possibility, not an obligation. It was human warmth and company they sought but not a long-term relationship.

Elmore was sexually satisfied but something was missing: that was the immediacy and vivacity of an individual to tease, to converse with about what had happened in the classroom that day, and with whom he could simply watch television without having to talk on and on. Millicent was a comfortable presence by his side. That feeling of togetherness would be very difficult to replace.

After a hard day at school, Elmore came home and ignored the messages that had been left on his voice mail. He knew they would be from women he had dated. He didn’t feel like taking someone out to dinner, and then returning to her place (he preferred that arrangement) to have programmed sex, sometimes with passion but many times with only ejaculation in mind. If she had an orgasm in the process, they would both be fulfilled.

Out of boredom one night when alone, he turned on the television pay channel and came across a classical oldie, “The Stepford Wives,” that he had seen years before. At the time he found it fascinating although far-fetched. The film was inspired by a novel of Ira Levin whose stories always dealt with the recreation or altering of human beings for nefarious ends.

One scene in the “Stepford Wives” stood out in Elmore’s mind: two female neighbors had slipped into the town pharmacist’s home during the workday; they heard loud cries of pleasure coming from the upstairs bedroom. The two intruders were surprised at how passionate their sexual intercourse was. The average-looking, decidedly non-sexy pharmacist was not only having sex in the middle of the day but he was driving his wife to ecstasy with his bedroom skills. It was the fulfillment of the male fantasy–passion and wifely obedience at his fingertips.

Later, after multiple incidents, the female protagonist finds out that the pliable and submissive wives were in reality sophistical mechanical dolls that had been fashioned to replace the human spouses who had been nagging their husbands with endless demands for a better and more profitable existence. To her horror she comes across her own incomplete replica that was ready and waiting for eyes to be inserted before being activated. In the end, she surrenders her humanity and becomes one of the mechanical suburban Stepford wives.

For the audience of the 1970s it was a chilling look into the future of technology and misogyny. That, most certainly, would never happen. Not in their lifetimes.

Elmore sat in the den and thought about the condemnation of male patriarchy in the film and the personal limits imposed by demanding wives.

The hard working male suburbanites of Stepford had concocted a way to rid their lives of an impediment to happiness: replacing a sharp-tongued and always exigent wife with an obedient and subservient mechanical doll, who was the antithesis of the new woman championed by feminine activists such as Betty Friedan and Gloria Steinem.

According to the new feminist order, male dominance was on the way out; women were now freed from the burden of multiple pregnancies thanks to contraception and expanded abortion rights.

Their access to once forbidden careers had guaranteed them financial independence. A more equitable world was at their doorstep in so many fields. It was rapidly becoming a feminized society. The male would be a progenitor, an entertainer, a bread winner, a plaything, and little else.

In the very modern world, procreation could be achieved without sexual contact; sperm donorship and in vitro fertilization had done away with the need for traditional insemination by sexual intercourse.

It was becoming evident that the male was not needed for orgasmic or sensual pleasure. Machines were being fabricated to replace the traditional penis-vagina model. Mechanical dolls, penile machines that could be adjusted to feminine needs and dimensions, and other devices were available for producing the orgasm that never failed.

Intrigued by this eventuality, Elmore went to the computer and typed in “artificial dolls and artificial intelligence.” He was stunned to see graphic pictures of human-like dolls, life-sized, and made to male and female specifications. It was an artificial world that Elmore found hard to conceive.

It was obvious that a great deal of progress had been made since the 1970s in the fabrication of plastic dolls that moved, acted, and spoke in a manner that gave them a credible human appearance. Although not yet perfected, certain dolls could speak in an interactive manner…that is, answer questions and make suggestions concerning sex play.

They were able to create with language. Instead of being robotic helpmates without emotions, they were now sentient beings who had been placed on a rational par with their “masters.”

Artificial intelligence, that was being perfected by scientists at M. I. T. and other institutions, was paving the way for a new being, not organically created, but a creature of technology and ideologues. Science had become the theology of the future. God was being replaced by the mechanization and silicone-infused imitation of life.

Pictures were plentiful of “owners”–who had paid several thousand dollars for their toys–copulating with the androids that could be programed to do a wide variety of tasks, even fellatio and other sex acts that were being refined for more intense pleasure.

For the female enthusiast, male body types could be selected to fit their taste. Penises of different widths and lengths could be inserted into the groin area of the doll to enhance sexual pleasure.

Similar to the male versions, interactive talk could occur between doll and human. Voices could be selected according to individual preference. In the pipeline were a number of possibilities to render the sexual act more life-like and fulfilling. There were even examples–as extreme as they may seem–of “masters” or “mistresses” becoming emotionally attached to their toys, dressing them and giving them pet names. Some even slept with them by their side.

Why worry about the nuisances of raising children and dealing with an indeterminate number of crises, expenses, and unforeseen events that organic children evoked? Scientists were hard at work producing silicone copies of the perfect child at various stages of life.

Although expensive to purchase, they could be modified realistically and programed to reflect the surrogate parents/owners’ beliefs and prejudicies. The children would even look like them and be free of disease. A certain emotional bond would be developed between child and “owner-parent”; legitimacy would be granted by legal contracts. Birthdays, school graduation ceremonies, and various celebrations would mimic the tradition rites of passage that organic families would experience. The future would be predictable and parenting would a means of control and not education per se.

Women users would no longer have to worry about premature ejaculation or clumsy lovers leaving them unfulfilled: the human-android model could perform at differing speeds, gyrate or thrust according to pre-arranged specifications, and last until the female had achieved orgasm before withdrawing and returning to an inert state.

Unwanted pregnancy was of course impossible. There would be no reason to worry about not taking a pill or forgetting condoms or any other form of contraception in the new world of scientifically generated pleasure on demand.

Just by pressing a button, the female or male doll could be conveniently inactivated during intercourse…if the phone rang or any interruption occurred: intrusive salespersons or other disruptions. Fifteen minutes later, the erection would still be firm and ready to perform. No human could match this flexibility in the bedroom.

The androids would be available at any time during the day or night; they could be stored in closets or special areas where children or guests would not encounter them by error.

In the future, sperm from donors could be injected into the vagina through artificial penises in the event single women without partners wished to become pregnant and experience an orgasm at the same time. Insemination could be attempted multiple times at a modest cost compared to traditional family planning expenses.

The washing and maintenance of the sex models were simple. They could be easily bathed in a tub or shower and owners could apply lubricant when necessary during the sex act with minimal interruption.

For users with deviant or unconventional tastes, a large variety of communal sex activities were possible. Male and female dolls could be equipped for group sex. The possibilities were exciting and multi-faceted…male to female, female to female, male to male, either with dolls or actual human beings.

Imaginative combinations of dolls and humans could be improvised during group sex since mechanical dolls would be able to communicate their wishes to humans.

Sexual boredom would no longer be a threat to marital happiness. Technology could remedy nature’s imperfections in sexual arousal.

If both spouses were in agreement, the use of dolls during normal intercourse could spice things up considerably in the bedroom. The husband could watch with minimal jealousy as his wife was being penetrated and given an orgasm by a robust male robot; the wife could witness her spouse being fellated by a beauteous doll who emitted loud cries of sexual pleasure.

Copulation with the female doll could be done in a wide variety of positions with the attendant moans of pleasure. The possibilities of sensual fulfillment were many and intriguing.

Couples or individuals could try out an enhanced android –with a down payment–for home use or they could visit a local outlet and test the efficacy of the machine in a showroom especially equipped for potential customers. Modifications could be made for an additional fee, often substantial.

The era of sex-on-demand was at hand; in a short period of time, the android models would be for sale. Specialists in their use would counsel consumers by “Zoom” or in home visits.

Anonymity and confidentiality were assured.

Elmore was tempted by some of the online advertising. The price was steep and he worried about being “outed” by curious maids or guests who would be sleeping in a “restricted” bedroom where the doll would be housed.

On the other hand, he knew that he could–with a simple text message or phone call–obtain the services of a lonely widow or even a married woman who was seeking an alternative partner for the night. However, there would be the inevitable follow-up. Phone calls would flow in inquiring about another get-together. There would be knocks on his door from grateful lovers who had baked a casserole they could share for the evening, and so forth.

The word was out: Elmore was well-hung and he knew how to please women with his appendage. He was also relatively young (43 years), had a fine job with a pension. He was ready, so they believed, to be joined again in matrimony and shed his lonely, bachelor state for the convenience and warmth of marriage.

In human terms, being over forty and alone was not something anyone wished for. There were many ways to overcome solitude.

Elmore, however, was not truly over his Millicent. He could sense her presence in every room of the house. Even watching TV was at times a painful experience.

He had kept her clothes in upstairs closets. From time to time, he would bring out a dress and bury his face in the cloth material that had retained a trace of her scent. It wasn’t unusual for him to lie in bed and look at the ceiling, recalling their intimacy and joyful moments.

Now and then Elmore would bring out albums of old photographs and video tapes that had been made during vacations and family gatherings. His heart was heavy and his memories vivid. He had not yet finished mourning the extraordinary woman who had graced his life for slightly over twenty years.

He was not ready to “move on” and commit to another partner. He couldn’t find it in him to put another woman in Millicent’s place.

Several months later, Elmore happened to meet a delightful, talented colleague, Grace Pendleton, who had majored in mathematics at college, taught briefly in the public school system, but had decided to take leave from teaching to raise two children.

In a morbid coincidence, her husband had also been killed in a private plane disaster during a violent storm. She was around his age (42) and very attractive. In fact, because he was plain-looking and somewhat nondescript, he didn’t attempt to approach her. She seemed very popular with widowers, divorcés, and other men who were lonely and single. She was outgoing and, in Elmore’s mind, would soon be married again.

For her age and the fact she had borne two children, she was still a good-looking woman. Even the young male students at the high school would ogle her as she passed by in the halls. She moved with a flowing, sensual gait; her hips would sway and her breasts would shift with each step. Although she dressed conservatively, she exuded a sexual aura that Elmore found irresistible.

Elmore became more and more interested in her as a potential dating partner, but he couldn’t find the moment or courage to ask her a personal question or to invite her out.

Grace Pendleton had noted that Elmore seemed interested in her as a woman, not just a colleague. In faculty meetings, he asked pointed and intelligent questions. He was one of the more innovative teachers who had devised charts and ways to explain complicated structures to teenagers.

“Elmore, I really admired the way you presented linear equations today. My students have a difficult time in understanding these,” Grace said when they were getting coffee in the faculty lounge.

“Thanks, Grace. It is hard to get them to see how the product of variables is not found in linear equations. It requires a little imagination and a lot of study time,” he answered, flattered that she had benefitted from his explanations.

“I’ve been here for a few months and we haven’t really had time to discuss a number of issues. I could use your experience and guidance if you have some time.” She was looking at him in an open and friendly manner.

“Well, if you’re free, I could let you review my notes over lunch today,” Elmore proposed tentatively, almost anticipating a refusal.

“That’s nice of you, Elmore. But I’ve got hall duty and that cuts my lunchtime in half. But, if you’ve got some time later, we could meet in the math classroom at five. I’d love to see your material.”

Elmore had almost agreed to meet with her, but remembered his dentist’s appointment at 4:30. “Sorry, Grace, but I’ve got a dental appointment. Maybe some other time.”

She seemed genuinely disappointed and excused herself. Elmore sensed that he should invite her out, but colleagues were milling around and it might be an embarrassing moment for both of them.

That evening, he picked up his phone to dial her number, but hesitated. Linear equations were not something you discussed on a date; that was reserved for workdays. He needed a different approach.

He also realized that they were colleagues: getting involved would be restrictive when every day you would see the woman you had been intimate with the night before. Lovers sometimes made very poor colleagues.

Maybe it would be better to think things over first.

As usual, Elmore put off making overtures to Grace. She was very pleasant to him at school and he managed to lend her his notes on linear equations. She thanked him for his thoughtfulness.

Elmore began to view Grace Pendleton as a sexual conquest and not purely as a colleague. He found an increasing number of opportunities to chat with her about school and other matters.

In the late fall, Elmore had volunteered to serve as a ticket monitor at home football games and to be a faculty chaperon on field trips. He had still not been forthright enough to ask Grace out. He had heard that she was involved with a local businessman–widowed with three teenage children.

Elmore made inquiries and his sources assured him that she was dating, possibly getting serious with the businessman.

Weeks went by and Elmore stuck to his normal dating routine. He would go out now and then with several women who put very little pressure on him to commit. They were satisfied with a dinner, dancing, and an extended evening of sexual dalliance. Elmore was careful not to sleep over even if invited. He drew a line between intimacy and independence.

It was a very chilly night in late fall at the state championship football game between St. Patrick’s and Clinton High School where Elmore worked. To his surprise, he saw Grace and a young woman coming up to the ticket window.

Grace introduced Elmore to her daughter, Elise, who was visiting from an out-of-state college. She closely resembled her mother.

Elmore came to sit with them after the first quarter and he had stopped checking tickets at the entrance to the stadium. He learned that Grace’s nephew was playing for St. Patrick’s and Elise’s friend’s brother was playing for Clinton High. Their cheers were conflicting, but it was a fun time for all.

After the game, Elmore invited them to a local ice cream parlor in spite of the chilly weather. Surprisingly Grace agreed but first she had to chauffeur her daughter and other friends to a neighborhood party. She would join Elmore at the parlor after she had dropped the children off.

Elmore was delighted she had said yes. The parlor was packed with parents and football fans. He ordered a cup of coffee and a scoop of chocolate ice cream as he waited.

Grace was later than expected. She apologized for her delay but her daughter needed to pick up some items at home.

Grace was wearing a colorful heavy sweater and wool hat. She looked much younger than her years. Elmore ordered more chocolate ice cream and another cup of coffee. Grace had a scoop of plain vanilla and coffee.

The noise level was almost deafening and they had to shout to be heard. After finishing their ice cream, Grace asked if Elmore would like to drop by her place for a night cap so they could talk.

“Sure, that would be great,” he answered. “But I wouldn’t be intruding, would I?” He was thinking about her daughter.

“Oh no, she’s going to spend the night with her friend. That’s why we went home first to get her things. You know how it is…they dash in and dash out.”

Elmore nodded and admitted that his daughter had been very sociable at that age.

Elmore knew where she lived so he didn’t have to follow her through town. Her home was a two-story house with blue trimming and a carefully laid out garden in the front. Grace had arrived first so he pulled up behind her car in the driveway.

She met him at the door; he was impressed with the décor of the living room and its antique furniture. It was a very upscale home compared to his.

Grace had taken off her heavy sweater and was relaxing in a stylish blouse that was molded to the curvature of her breasts and upper body. Her dark blue skirt fit snugly and matched her black leggings.

“Can I get you a drink?” she asked.

Elmore stood up to help. He poured himself a scotch and water and Grace chose a glass of liqueur. They resettled in the den which seemed less formal than the living room. Elmore noted there were numerous family photographs, several of which contained Grace and her husband, George. Her daughter and son were equally on display.

“What did you think of the game?” Grace asked.

Elmore spoke at length about the last quarter which was closely disputed. The late touchdown pass from the Clinton quarterback had sealed the victory.

“I’m glad my notes helped you,” he said just to make conversation after a brief pause.

“They did indeed,” Grace replied. “I’ve been away from the classroom for quite some time. It takes a while to get back in step.”

“Math is a universal language that hasn’t really changed a lot since the days of Archimedes,” Elmore opined. “At least at its fundamental level.”

Grace laughed. “Students probably have the same reaction now as they did in his time. Befuddlement.”

She swirled her drink for a few seconds and said, “Please excuse me for being a little intrusive. I’ve heard from people at school that you lost your wife in an accident a short while ago. I’m sure that you know that I lost my husband, George, in a place crash as well not too long ago. It’s odd we have these sad events in common. It’s very difficult to adjust. How are you coping?”

Elmore hesitated to go down this path that was very painful. “As well as possible, I suppose.”

“I know that being a widower is tough. I hope your daughter is doing well.” Grace seemed eager to have some commonality with her own grief. She viewed Elmore as a colleague in distress.

“Yes and no,” Elmore answered. “When you’re very young, you can put things in perspective and not grieve excessively. At our ages, less so.”

Elmore felt like putting his arms around her shoulders in consolation but resisted that urge. This was not the time.

They were probing at random to get a feel for each other’s emotions. Asking highly personal questions would possibly create a negative reaction and make getting closer more difficult. They needed to exercise caution.

“How do you deal with your loneliness,” Grace asked spontaneously. She suddenly realized this was an inappropriate comment and she put her hand on his arm in an apologetic gesture.

“No, that’s okay,” he replied and patted her hand in a friendly manner.

“I’m not a recluse and I do have some lady friends but nothing serious at the moment. I just need companionship more than a committed relationship. How about yourself? How do you handle it?” Elmore looked her in the eyes and she lowered her gaze.

“Not very well, perhaps. I do go out with men now and then. I thought one gentleman was a serious companion but it turned out that we didn’t have much in common.

“Frankly, I worry about the children and I haven’t gotten over George’s absence. I see him a lot, in spirit of course. I shouldn’t do this but I do make comparisons.”

“I have the same problem,” Elmore segued. “Millicent, my former wife, is ever present…in spirit as you say. Although there are times when I hear her voice…literally. Experts say this is relatively common among close relatives–in particular spouses– who are survivors.”

In a move that surprised him, Grace stood up and sat beside him on the couch. She leaned toward him and said, “This is perhaps beyond the pale at this point in our friendship, but I’m curious. You are still a young person and you… we have needs.

“I don’t have to draw you a picture. George was an attractive and vigorous man in so many ways. We were a loving couple…we had frequent sexual relations. I’m sure that you and Millicent were intimate, possibly on a regular basis.

“Here is a blunt and possibly intrusive question that you can choose not to answer…Do you miss your intimacy? As a man, it’s easier to find partners than it is for women.

“For my part, I have sought out male companions for sexual gratification. But it has only been that. A few have pressed me for a commitment, but I can’t forget my life with George. Until I can come to grips with that persistent memory, I must admit that I feel more comfortable being by myself for the time being.”

Elmore was stunned by her candor. He admitted that he shared similar feelings. He had dated a number of women who had been willing sexual partners, but he experienced Grace’s reticence. Millicent was still a large part of his emotional landscape.

“I would be lying if I said you weren’t an attractive woman. I find you sexually enticing; however, it’s hard to work with someone and have emotional commitments…especially someone you’re sleeping with.”

“I like you a great deal, Elmore. I think you like me as well. It’s something of a cliché but you’ll never get to know someone well unless you sleep with him. Not casually but with the intention of perhaps committing yourself in due time.

“Nonetheless, in the department and elsewhere, you have the reputation of being a ladies’ man…a real Don Juan of sorts. You have seduced quite a few women in town. They talk…a lot. Shrivesville is a medium-sized city but it’s a small town in many respects.

“What I’m trying to say is let’s not start something we’re not going to take seriously.” Grace was looking at him with a questioning, unblinking stare.

“I agree. However, to be frank , Grace, I don’t have a condom tonight. I didn’t anticipate anything like this. Maybe we could postpone this stage until tomorrow or later?”

“Tomorrow, Elise will be here. We could try your place or, if you don’t object, George and I occasionally used condoms when I wasn’t sure about my usual contraceptive. I’m certain I have a few left upstairs.”

She leaned over and kissed him softly on the lips. He put his arms around her and kissed her neck and massaged her full breasts. She responded with enthusiasm and stroked his thigh and stomach area.

“Let’s head upstairs if you’re ready. I need to lock up first.” She noticed that Elmore’s penis was strongly erect and was pressing against his pants.

She laughed and caressed his penis. “My, you are a passionate man. We’ll try to draw this out as much as possible.”

Elmore felt out of sorts in her bedroom. There were several pictures of her husband near the bed, staring at his former wife. Elmore was almost at the point of asking her to turn them down for the time being, but he said nothing.

Grace took off his sweater and shirt and kissed his chest. She removed her blouse and skirt with a casual gesture as though she were undressing alone. Elmore fought to remove his pants but his erection was swollen and he had to be careful with his zipper.

Grace faced him in her bra and panties and smiled. She noticed his awkward fiddling with his pants.

“Do you need any help?” she inquired as she attempted to push his pants down. In his shorts, which were tight-fitting, Elmore’s penis bulged considerably.

As though she had done this many times before, Grace grabbed the elastic band and drew his shorts down to his ankles. His penis, now fully erect, jutted out and swayed slightly as he lifted his legs to step out of his shorts.

“My, my, what a pleasant surprise,” she exclaimed, seeing his erection. “The rumors were true. You really are well hung.”

She then stood up and removed her bra and panties. Her nudity was thrilling to Elmore. She had large, firm breasts with pink nipples. She was not shaven as so many women were. Nonetheless, her pubic area was somehow appealing with its hirsute look. He approached her, put his hands on her waist, and led her towards the bed.

After turning down the covers, Grace went over to a vanity and rummaged around in a drawer. She returned and handed Elmore a packet of Trojan condoms that were probably several years old.

Latex was a degradable product but Elmore’s ardor was such that he was willing to take a chance on its durability. He noticed that Grace’s nipples were coming erect. Her body seemed sculpted for love and sexual passion.

They sat on the edge of the bed. She grasped his penis and stroked it several times. “You certainly don’t need any stimulation, it seems. Do you want me to suck you a little? You can do the same for me after I put on your condom.”

Elmore leaned back on the bed. Grace placed the tip of his penis in her mouth and expertly maneuvered up and down the length of his shaft, using her tongue on the head.

He gasped at first and then began to breathe deeply. She unrolled the condom and stretched it over his erection, securing it at the base. She then gently fondled his testicles in her hand and kissed his lower abdomen several times. She lay beside him and spread her thighs that were wet with lubrication.

Elmore knelt down beside the bed and pushed his face into her crotch. He let his tongue go up and down her labia, inserted his fingers in her vagina and thrust them carefully in as far as they could go. He made circular movements while he kissed her inner thighs and abdomen. She grabbed his head and emitted low moans and her breathing grew deeper.

“Tell me when you’re ready,” Elmore said.

“Not quite yet. I’m really hot but…just a few more seconds…”

She spread her legs widely and stroked her clitoris in a rhythmic pattern. Elmore reached up and felt her breasts and pinched her nipples.

Grace was breathing heavily, rubbing his shoulders. “Okay. Let’s give it a go. Do me a favor. When you penetrate, do it very slowly. I don’t know if you I can accommodate your cock all the way.”

Elmore pushed into her vagina for a few inches, paused, and then thrust deeper. She had turned her head to the side and was slightly moaning.

He then began to stroke more aggressively with his erection and she lifted her arms over her head, grabbing the rear board of the bed for support. After a few minutes, Grace was timing her hip thrusts to his strokes and her moans grew more insistent.

Then, she lifted her head up and said, “Elmore, could you pull out for a moment?” He was astonished and asked, “I am hurting you?” In past sexual encounters his penis had bruised the walls of the woman’s vagina and he had modified his thrusting technique to ease her discomfort.

“No, no. I just need to rest a little.” Elmore withdraw his erection that was wet with lubrication. He looked at Grace with concern.

She stroked his cheek. “It’s nothing. We can pick it up in a minute or so. We’ll both enjoy it more this way.”

As they lay side by side, panting and rubbing each other, Grace suggested, “Can you put two pillows under me? I do better in that position. It lifts my hips up and lets you go a little deeper. But be careful not to hit my uterus.”

Elmore placed two pillows under her hips to her satisfaction. She spread her legs widely and invited him to re-enter. Elmore propped himself on his hands and awkwardly attempted to penetrate without success. Grace reached down and guided his penis into her vagina.

He started to thrust again, very slowly at first, and then with increased rhythm. She gave off muted cries of pleasure and breathed deeply while synchronizing her hip movements with his thrusting. She placed her legs over his shoulders and raked her fingers across his back. After several minutes, she said once again, “Elmore, let’s pause for a minute and try a new position.”

Elmore had the impression he was a programed doll who was obeying his owner’s whims. He withdrew and turned over to his side, breathing heavily. His erection had grown even more rigid, almost painful in its extension. She was stroking his penis in a playful manner as she breathed deeply.

“This is a more productive way to orgasm,” Grace said. “It lets us gather our strength for the big finale. You’ll see. It’ll be powerful.”

She raised her hips and directed him to penetrate her from the rear. At the same time, she was stroking her clitoris to enhance the sensation. As directed, Elmore entered her with long, deliberate strokes, taking care not to ram against her uterus.

Grace’s vocalization grew more intense; she reached back and stroked his shaft as it plunged over and over into her vagina. She emitted a staccato type of cry that increased Elmore’s arousal. He realized that he couldn’t last very much longer. “Grace, I think I’m going to cum…”

Grace quickly turned over on her back, spread her legs, and said, “Push it in this way. Let’s do missionary. Give it to me…”

Elmore was getting very tired but he dutifully penetrated her and continued to thrust as fast as he could. His ejaculation was powerful and he shouted out his pleasure.

He raised his head up with his penis still inside her and saw an expression of contorted but unfulfilled joy. “Could you give me a few more strokes? I’m not quite finished. Please, God, I need you so much!”

Elmore pushed again but his penis began to grow flaccid. “Elmore, give it to me, now, just a little more!”

“I’m sorry, Grace. I’ve already cum. Let me suck your clit…”

Grace rolled to one side and began to vigorously massage her clitoris. Her breathing increased and she lifted her legs as she reached her climax, screaming out, “Oh God, that’s it. It’s good, so good.” Her body almost shivered and she lay back with her legs still extended and spread wide.

“Don’t’ worry. You did a fantastic job. After we’ve done this a few times, we’ll coordinate our movements.” Grace caressed his face and leaned against his body.

Elmore was surprised. None of his lady friends had ever had a problem with orgasm. As a rule, they climaxed long before he did. He was able to drive them to a second orgasm with regularity. They were very grateful for his virility.

“Sorry, Grace. We’ll do better next time. You were a challenge. It’s a matter of technique, you’ll see.”

Grace leaned over and gave him a kiss, patted his cheek, and got out of bed to shower. “Do you want to shower with me?”

Elmore let the warm shower water caress his body. He playfully massaged Grace’s breasts but she pushed him away. “Careful. After I’ve had sex, they can be a little tender.” His erection had returned but not with the rigidity of a few minutes ago. This time, he knew, he could last as long as necessary to bring her to orgasm.

“Are you up to a second try? This time, I’ll be able to satisfy you. There won’t be a problem.” He reached around and caressed her pubic zone.

Grace looked down at his thick erection. “Elmore, you’re so good to me. If you like, we can try. I’m still a little hot. I could use more relief.”

She dried off and took another condom from the packet. She stroked his erection and fellated him until it grew full and erect. She carefully placed the condom on his penis.

He arranged the pillows under her hips and began to thrust into her vagina with a steady rhythm. She lifted her arms and started to breathe heavily.

They paused at intervals and she uttered small cries of pleasure; Elmore realized that his strokes were not as effective as they had been. Her response was not growing with its previous sensual intensity.

He thrust more and more vigorously. She was moaning softly and moving her hips methodically to synchronize with his strokes. He began to breathe more deeply and he felt his ejaculation approaching. “I’m cuming. I’m cuming, Grace.”

“Not quite now. A little while longer. It’s so good.”

Elmore tried to slow his thrusting but he had reached a point where he couldn’t stop his climax. Once again, he cried, “I’m almost there. I’m cuming…”

Grace quickly flipped over, took his erection and guided the shaft into her vagina in the missionary position. “Like this, give it to me, harder, harder. Don’t leave me like this.” Elmore pushed for a short while and then felt the powerful, jet-like spewing of his emission.

“Elmore, just a few more strokes. You can do it. Please..”

He rubbed her pubic area futilely; she reached down and finished with a circular stroking of her clitoris. She let out loud and raucous moans of orgasm, lifting her legs and twisting her body in pleasure.

“Sorry I wasn’t able to last. Normally, I can satisfy women a second time with no problem.” Elmore was leaning against her body that was at rest with her knees bent. His condom was attached but was filled with sperm.

“We’ll synchronize, don’t worry, ” Grace said reassuringly. She got out of bed, came over to his side, and motioned for him to stand up. She reached across to a bedside table and picked up a few wipes. She carefully removed his condom with a wipe and took it into the bathroom for disposal.

“Come here and let me wash you off,” Grace again motioned for him to come closer. In the bathroom mirror, his penis was red-colored and still swollen. It looked like a large boudin or blood sausage that drooped below his testicles.

Using a wet towel, Grace lifted it up and wiped it clean several times. She hoisted his penis in her hand, glanced in the mirror at Elmore’s face and winked.

The two of them, standing naked side by side, were an odd picture. Elmore’s body was ordinary with the exception of his unusually large penis; Grace’s body was a model of sexual desire and every aspect of her physical being resonated sexually with Elmore.

“My word, are you getting hard again?” Grace tweaked his penis and laughed. “You are a stud, Elmore. No wonder the women in town talk about your prowess!” Elmore was a little annoyed by the reference but the presence of Grace’s nude body overwhelmed his senses.

“I wonder if you could do something for me. I’m a little sore after the second time…that was really good, really fulfilling…but, let’s not tonight. You’re still horny, that’s apparent,” she giggled and stroked his penis that was growing rigid once again.

“George and I were also really sexy on some days. After we reached a saturation point, he needed to be satisfied and my arm was tired from stroking him. So we purchased a series of sex toys that we included in our sexual evenings.

“For example, I have a masturbation device where you can insert your penis. It throbs and grips your cock in a programed manner. You’ll ejaculate normally within a few minutes. It’s all very intense and satisfying.”

She then took hold of his erection and led him over to a closet like a horse being led to water. Elmore followed passively without the slightest idea of what was in store.

Grace reached into a box and removed an item with a silicone vagina embedded within a plastic casing. She applied lubrication to the artificial vagina and to his erection. She turned on the device that hummed with a low vibration.

“George loved this machine. When we couldn’t have sex, he would use it and have powerful ejaculations. All the sperm is caught in a small bin that can be removed and cleaned. Don’t worry. It’s perfectly safe and sanitary.”

She grasped Elmore’s penis and slowly stuffed it into the silicone vagina. He gasped at first and then relaxed as it massaged his penis at varying speeds. He took the masturbating device in his hand and circled it around his erection. To his surprise, he felt successive waves of pleasure coursing through his lower body. Within less than five minutes, he felt his ejaculation form and then spew into the enclosed bin. He cut off the device and withdrew his erection with sperm dripping out.

“Don’t move. Stay still,” Grace called out and took several shots with her smart phone of his penis. “It’s at maximum length and girth right now,” she pointed out.

Elmore drew back and handed Grace the device. “What was that all about? Are you keeping trophies?”

“No, silly. This is for a more professional purpose. I know some people who experiment with artificial intelligence and sex dolls. They are not freaks or criminal types, but highly trained scientists who have been fabricating sex dolls for a wide and diversified audience of users. It has become a business for all sorts of people…like myself…who use sexual devices to enhance their love life or satisfy all types of needs.

“You’ve got a large penis that doesn’t have any imperfections. These scientists could make a silicone copy of your erect penis and attach it to fabricated dolls for many uses. That is, if you don’t mind. It’s all very on the q-t and confidential. There is a small remuneration that can be negotiated.”

Elmore looked down at his drooping cock and wondered how on earth he could have misjudged Grace Pendleton to this extent. She noticed the disapproving expression on his face and said, “Elmore, dear one, I’m not a sex fiend or some bizarre creature who is dabbling in far out erotic thrills.

“I had a wonderful time tonight in our sexual “debut.” But I’m also committed to finding ways to make the sex lives of lonely people more normal and satisfying.

“I don’t get a salary for what I do. It is a small commission in the event I find a willing and qualified person who can submit to modeling their genitalia. If you would like to learn more about this process before agreeing, we can visit one of their ateliers and you can make up your mind.”

Elmore stepped back in the shower and quickly washed his body and genitals. He didn’t know what to say to Grace’s proposal. He was a lonely math teacher who had a very public job that could be jeopardized if he got involved in sex toy manufacturing. Nonetheless, after his experience with the masturbatory device, his curiosity was piqued.

“When you say ‘ateliers’ you mean workshops?” Elmore asked and Grace nodded. “Where would we have to go to visit this place?”

Still nude, Grace came up to his side, took his arm, and said, “They aren’t here in town. We would have to go to a larger city which isn’t very far away. Believe you me, you will be blown away by the mechanical dolls and precision robots you’ll see.

“The directors of the lab are very sharp. They have Ph.D.s in mathematics and artificial intelligence. Frankly, they’ve received a government subsidy to fund their research and experimentation.

“Even NASA and the Defense Department are interested. Making intelligent robots for interspace travel is one of the main concerns of the space agency.

“In addition to their scientific research, they are involved in the commercialization of robotics for home or domestic applications. It’s very much like being in a science-fiction movie. Even some of the main media companies have an interest in developing intelligent, sentient mechanical dolls to act as servants, companions, and…get this…complacent , obedient lovers. I’ll explain this later if you’re interested.”

Immediately Elmore thought of the “Stepford Wives.” He put his hands around her waist and shook his head in disbelief. “You mean all this stuff is going on right under our noses?” He ran his hands up and down her back as he spoke.

“Yes, and even more. You’d be amazed.” She reached up and put her hands tenderly around his face. “Hey, lover man, why don’t you sleep here tonight. Tomorrow’s Saturday and the children won’t be home until late morning. We could talk about this in more detail and…if you wake up in the middle of the night, we can go down and have a snack first, then come back and perfect our technique. You can make all the noise you want to. To be honest, I really like morning sex…I guess you do too.”

Elmore was tempted to say yes, he would stay over. The physicality of her body and the promise of spontaneous sex was a powerful attraction. But he had two dogs at home that had to be fed and walked.

“Let me make you a counter proposal. I’ll send out for dinner tomorrow and you can spend the night at my place. Forewarning: not as opulent as yours. The food, however, will be good. We can talk about science’s innovations and explore the erogenous zones of our bodies afterward….all night long.”

“Damn. I was looking forward to our middle of the night shenanigans. Your offer sounds equally as appealing. Let me get together with the kids and I’ll get back to you. I’ve got your number…or do I?” Elmore took a small piece of paper and scribbled his number and address for her information.

“One question: are you “anti-textile” in sleepwear or do you prefer nightshirts or gowns?” Elmore’s eyes ran up and down her naked body.

“Basically, I’m anti-textile unless it’s really cold. With the kids home, I’ll be wearing my nightshirts. How do you manage to sleep at your place?” There was a teasing lilt to Grace’s voice.

“When in Rome. If you’re a committed anti-textile, I follow suit. Anyway, at 2 a.m. when I roll over and a naked body is pressing against me, I’m inclined to ravish its beautiful presence. It’s a question of male hormones. I hope you won’t object…”

“We’ll see how sleepy I am when you launch your attack…” She pinched his sides and gave him a good night kiss.

It was difficult for Elmore to go to sleep. Both dogs were crowded into bed with him as usual.

He went over and over tonight’s happenings. He was engrossed by Grace’s sensual beauty and he recalled her erotic mannerisms that had thrilled him. She was a highly desirable woman.

Still, he was puzzled about not bringing her to orgasm, something he had little trouble with when sleeping with other women. As she had said, they needed to work on technique and timing. In a sense, practice makes perfect.

He considered himself a lucky man that someone with her beauty, sensual temperament and intelligence would be truly interested in him. The prospect of investigating robotics and its avatars with Grace captured his interest. She was much more complicated than he had at first thought.

Grace called the next morning and told him regretfully that she had promised the children to attend a family gathering that evening so she would have to decline his invitation. However, was he still interested in visiting a robotics laboratory with her? Elise would be leaving for school in a few days and they could schedule a weekend for touring the facility.

Elmore was initially disappointed; he had primed himself for another evening of unbridled sex and self-probing questions. However, in this instance, he had little choice.

“Of course, I’d like very much to see what’s going on in fabricating mechanical dolls…especially playgirls and guys that answer you and participate actively.” Elmore’s curiosity was once again piqued. He also envisioned long evenings with Grace, uninterrupted, and leisurely strolls through parts of the city.

“It’s a lot more than sex toys, although that’s a big part of what they do. How about next Friday afternoon? We can leave after schools lets out and visit the facility on Saturday morning. I know the director and he has agreed to show us around.”

Elmore checked his calendar and answered. “Fine. I’m pretty free that weekend. After we visit the robotics center, is there anything else planned?”

“Well, it is a big city and we can pick and choose about outside activities we’re interested in. If you have enough energy left, we can perfect our loving technique in the hotel room but let’s not waste a lot of time looking at ceilings and plumbing our private parts. We can do that at home anytime.”

Elmore laughed and said that was a wise approach to the weekend. He would look into cultural events they could attend or other possibilities that might be interesting. He would be in touch shortly.

“Thanks for your understanding about tonight. I really enjoyed myself yesterday. But, I think we have an understanding about commitment. It’s pretty early and we can still go out with other people. However, I find you very special.”

“Same here,” Elmore replied and hung up. It would be a long day and relatively lonely evening. He could, of course, give Jennifer a call but that would complicate matters.

Jennifer Denovata worked downtown in a real estate company. She was divorced, came from an Italian family, and loved to cook, among other things. They had a friendly relationship with no strings attached, for the moment. As Grace had underlined, there was no commitment on their part to stay “faithful.”

Elmore, after a period of reflection, realized he was still horny from Grace’s artful tactics and maneuvers. Jennifer was a passionate woman as well; however, she was involved with other men and she was basically “dinner and sex, with no meaningful conversation along the way.”

He dialed her number after some hesitation. He got her voice mail at home. At the office, she answered and seemed pleased to hear from him. “Hi, Elmore. I’m with a customer right now. Can I call you back?”

He picked up a pile of math tests that needed to be graded and began to work. Later in the day, Jennifer called. “Hi again. What’s up? You sound lonely.”

“Are you free tonight? I was thinking about dinner at the new restaurant near the city center…”

“That sounds great, but I’m involved with a guy at the moment. However, he’s out of town for a few days. We’re not serious just bed buddies–if I can put it like that.”

“Well, in that case, could I invite you to a restaurant-prepared, home- delivered meal around seven this evening? I don’t think anyone will really know.”

“The dogs will be around to look and bark?” She had a light-spirited tone in her voice.

“As always. They know you so I don’t think they’ll bark. Okay?”

“My, my, aren’t you persuasive. Do you have the necessary protective items? If so, I’ll see you around seven at your abode. By the way, I’ve heard that you’re seeing a good-looking math teacher who may be teaching you moves you can’t put on a graph…”

“Very funny. Yes, she’s a widow like me. We commiserate in our own way.”

“Hum. Well I hope she’s not too sore. She’s not disappointed, I know that for sure.”

“See you around seven. We can compare notes. Mine against yours. It’ll be enlightening and exciting, maybe.”

“I’ll bring some lube as well. The last time you were out and we had to improvise. Get the drift?”

“See you then, take care.” Elmore hung up and had the very strange impression that he was committing adultery. It was possible that Grace would find out but he needed female company tonight. She would not sleep over.

Jennifer arched her back and emitted harsh, shrill cries as she reached her orgasm. Her brunette hair was spread across the bed. She had clasped his torso with her legs and rocked his body in her throes of pleasure. Elmore was panting heavily but he still had not cum.

“Hey, can you go a little more? I haven’t gotten there yet.”

“Good God. Yes, I can do some more. Let’s put a little more lube on first.” She could barely get the words out she was breathing so hard.

He grabbed the tube of lubricant, withdrew his penis, and lubricated the shaft.

She reached across and put some in her vagina as well. When he re-entered, she stretched her arms apart and placed her legs over his shoulders as he plunged his penis deeply into her. She began to make continuous, wailing moans that grew in intensity until she came for the second time. Her body was thrashing from side to side as she was overcome by pleasure.

“Damn, you’re good.” She exclaimed. Her arms were wrapped around his upper body. “Have you ever thought about doing porn? You could make a small fortune. ”

Elmore was trying to catch his breath. He massaged her breasts and kissed her cheeks and forehead. “Not really. I like my job a lot and porn videos would get me fired in no time. Can’t take that risk.”

“Well, I’d like to get some pictures of your cock at its peak. It would be a nice memento.”

“Wild child. No can do.”

“Come on, Elmore. A sex tape would make us some real money. We could wear disguises.”

“Dream on. Let’s keep it as it is. Lots of fun but very little risk.”

When she left, he watched her walk down the driveway out to her car. She was a very pretty and well-built woman. She was not his type, for the long run. He liked her and she viewed him as a fun guy with a large cock that she got off on every time. They were useful playmates who were meeting each other’s immediate needs and little else.

Elmore went to bed feeling a little guilty but reassured that he could still provide women with the sexual relief they needed. Grace was becoming more and more a challenge to his masculinity.

As he dropped off to sleep, he remembered the scene in the “Stepford Wives” when the actress who was investigating the mechanization of the community’s wives came face to face with her replica, all finished with the exception of the empty eye sockets. It struck horror in all the women in the audience.

Next Saturday he would be introduced to a plant where mechanized female and male dolls were routinely fabricated for home use. Somehow, like the husbands who conspired to dehumanize their wives in the movie, Grace was involved in this process of giving credible human characteristics to silicon androids…for the purpose of enhancing sexual pleasure and creating an artificial companion. He was fascinated by this possibility but also upset. How would regular men fit into the new equation of effective mechanical substitutes?

During the week, Grace managed to sleep over at his place once, after Elise had left for school. They thoroughly enjoyed making love to one another as well as talking about the mechanical doll plant or “atelier” as Grace preferred. She went into great detail about its resources and the products it was manufacturing for commercial use.

Although their sexual encounter was spirited and fulfilling, Elmore was still not successful in bringing her to a full and simultaneous orgasm. She needed to masturbate herself at the end. Winded and panting, he tried to help her achieve climax.

At school on Thursday morning, Grace seemed a little stand-offish but cordial. At lunch time, he managed to get her to one side and ask what was wrong.

“You should know. You tell me!” Her tone was almost shrill. Elmore was taken aback and asked her to lower her voice.

“Lower my voice, okay. Maybe then you could control your sex urges and not be so flagrant when you take your whores to bed after sleeping with me!” Elmore winced and tried to explain.

“Grace, that was a mistake. When you cancelled our dinner date, I was not thinking clearly. I was just driven by lust. Jennifer is one of my old companions that I have a very casual relationship with. Nothing serious at all.”

“Maybe so, but she has a habit of telling her friends about her sexcapades. It seems that she let them know in detail about your seduction skills. There was some mention of your making a sex tape?”

“Whoa. I never agreed to that. Jennifer has a vivid imagination!” Elmore moved closer to Grace so their voices wouldn’t be heard. “When I was at your house, we had an understanding about any immediate commitment. You were not going to be restricted from seeing other men. I thought that applied to me as well.”

“I thought you understood that was hypothetical, not a free ticket to debauchery…” Grace looked at him with tears in her eyes. He realized that he had committed a serious mistake in sleeping with Jennifer.

“Grace, I admire and respect you. I truly like you…frankly even more than that. I hope you feel the same way towards me.”

“This isn’t the place to talk about this,” she observed as faculty and students were passing by.

“Do you still want to visit the mechanical doll workshop with me tomorrow? I’ve already made hotel reservations.”

He had an almost pleading look that Grace noticed. “I need to think about this,” she said. “Could you call me at home this evening? We need to cool off a little before we make any decisions.”

She turned and headed for her classroom and he returned to the teachers’ lounge with a disturbed feeling that things might have changed for the worse.

He got home at four o’clock after shopping for food and other items. He noticed a message from Jennifer was in the recorder. After he unloaded his bags, he checked the voice mail. “Hi, Elmore. Just checking in to see if you’re in the mood to go out this weekend. Barry…you know, my main man…got wind of our sheenigans and he’s really pissed.

“He’ll calm down but for the moment I’m free as a bird. Love to see ya. Bye, now.”

Elmore felt a sudden degree of pity and remorse for leading Jennifer on. She was probably hoping they could start seeing each other more often and not be sex objects or one-nighters as they had been.

He owed her the courtesy of a reply; however, he had to handle this carefully and not have a second crisis on his hands.

He decided he would wait until he had discussed matters with Grace before answering Jennifer. If Grace were going to dump him, he could justify accepting Jennifer’s invitation.

As dinner, he had a Marie Calendar frozen pot pie and some store bought salad together with a beer and a bran muffin for dessert. It was not a balanced meal by any stretch of the imagination.

Millicent’s meals had been true cordon bleu creations and he missed them dreadfully. If she were here, none of this nonsense would have happened. He would have been a true gentleman and a respectful husband. He would have kept his member where it belonged…in his pants.

Just as he was about ready to call Grace, the phone buzzed and she was on the line. “Hello. I hope I’m not interrupting your dinner.” Elmore assured her that he had just finished eating.

“Good. What I said this afternoon was the result of jealousy; you were right, I don’t have any claim on you and you, of course, have none on me. But we are sleeping together and that creates bonds of a sort.

“I know you’ve been with a lot of women since Millicent passed away. Frankly, I’ve been playing the field somewhat as I explained. We’re both trying to find someone who fits our ideal partner. We’re still in love with our spouses and that’s not a healthy situation emotionally.

“I don’t know what to say. If we visit the workshops Saturday, it could be that we could also talk at leisure about our personal relationship. It could also be that we might irritate the situation. How do you feel? Are you ready to go with me to see the mechanical dolls? It’s quite an experience.”

Elmore paused briefly and thought about the short and long term issues at stake. “Honestly, Grace, I’d go anywhere with you. I’m very attached to you and that’s a little ahead of the game, certainly for you. However, the fat is in the fire…so to speak. I think we need to get closer together or at least talk about who we are and what we want. This trip will probably give us that opportunity.”

“That’s what I was thinking. How do you feel about Jennifer? Is she one of your throw-aways or are you serious about her?”

“She’s a decent woman, but we don’t have a lot in common.”

“Okay. Let’s do it. We could go with separate rooms or a double bed. I vote for the double bed. Otherwise, it would be pretty hypocritical.” Grace’s voice sounded resigned to their being together.

“That’s what I’ve reserved. Let’s talk tomorrow at school. I can pick you up at your house afterwards or we can leave from school in my car. If you prefer an early getaway, bring your suitcase. Thanks for calling.”

Grace wished him good night and hung up. Elmore knew there was a great deal of latent tension in the air. He was not looking forward to mixing emotional commitment and the android future of human relations this weekend.

He went upstairs and started to pack his suitcase; he made sure that condoms were included with his other toiletries. When he finished, he picked up his phone and called Jennifer.

When Jennifer answered the phone, she warned Elmore that her “man,” Barry was with her. They had been arguing, but had “made up” with an extended session in bed. She was relieved when he said that he was busy this weekend and would have to cancel. He hung up with a strange feeling of deception and regret that Jennifer would no longer be available for play time.

Grace let him know at school Friday morning that she would prefer leaving from her house; letting students and faculty see them leaving together with suitcases could be a little compromising at this stage. Elmore nodded in agreement and headed for his 9:00 class on trigonometry. Grace was handling an introductory class on plane geometry. Her mood seemed better although the trip to the capital city could prove to be tense or relaxing. Elmore hoped for the latter.

Her son, Barnett, who was on vacation from his prep school in Virginia, met him at the door. They shook hands and chatted while Grace was gathering her things.

She had told Elmore that Barnette was quite the athlete: a top-notch swimmer and baseball player. He had made the all-conference team in baseball last season. He was being highly recruited by a number of colleges and universities for his pitching ability.

She also explained that having both children in private schools was very expensive. Thankfully George had left her a very generous insurance policy that covered their expenses.

Grace gave her son a hug and kiss on the check as they set off. He was going to watch the house during their trip. She felt more comfortable having someone there to be a sort of overseer. She had laughed at the same time, saying that Barnette would probably invite his friends over for a party. He understood, however, that cleaning up was his responsibility.

Along the way, they chatted about work and trivial matters. Neither Elmore nor Grace wanted to discuss serious issues on the Interstate. Grace filled him in on the mechanical doll facility once again. She gave the impression of being very much at home with the mind-bending innovations that were being created and experimented with.

In a sense, Elmore thought the scientists were playing God in their attempts to create a viable machine that could perform a majority of the acts that one associated exclusively with the human being.

The androids could now think for themselves; they no longer had to be programmed for each movement. They were able to make decisions about the best way to handle difficult situations. Artificial intelligence permitted them to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of driving an automobile along the freeway. There were more responsive and less likely to be distracted than humans when steering the vehicle.

They were now able to assist surgeons in the operating room based on pre-determined information related to a medical procedure. The physical android was being modified at a rapid pace to adjust to a changing environment. The possibilities, according to Grace, were infinite.

Within fifty years, the world as we know it would be completely different. Every home would have a robot or android to perform routine tasks, even cook meals.

In addition, as they had discussed at length, the sexual dysfunction that so many couples now encountered would be offset by a specialized android that could alleviate their distress. The bedroom would be digitized to the mutual pleasure of spouses or partners. Grace was eager to introduce Elmore to the sophisticated “pleasure” dolls and their functions.

Elmore was of course curious but he feared the mechanized future and the dehumanization of sexual relationships. Grace was convinced that human behavior could be changed for the better by science and technology. Orgasm would be at one’s fingertips and no longer dependent on the mood or physical durability of a partner..that would be the new normal.

Elmore couldn’t stop thinking about the passive and obedient dolls of the Stepford husbands. A world without drama or dissent in a relationship would be intimidating and boring in his opinion.

The traffic downtown was intense as they arrived at the hotel. After they checked in, Grace suggested they try a restaurant very close by that specialized in Greek cuisine. Afterwards, they could stroll through the malls that surrounded the hotel and capitol center and return to the hotel. The artificial intelligence plant was about fifteen miles outside the city. They had been scheduled for a 10:00 tour the next day.

The evening weather was perfect and they enjoyed the Greek food and syrupy alcohol that accompanied the dinner. Grace seemed to relax and she caressed his arm fondly as they waited for the waiter to bring the check.

Elmore offered to pay although Grace had suggested they share expenses. Elmore countered with the offer to split the meals but let him pay for the hotel room. Awkwardly, Grace agreed knowing that she would not commit fully to their relationship in this manner. She would maintain her independence for the time being.

In the hotel room, almost out of habit, they made love with a determined intensity and this time, Grace seemed to reach her orgasm in sync with Elmore’s noisy ejaculation. At least, she told Elmore she had done as much. He truly wanted to believe her.

They fell asleep a short while thereafter, avoiding any discussion of their mutual problems. That could wait for the appropriate moment. Elmore had held her in his arms for a while and realized that he didn’t understand what her goals might be for them as a couple. He had been completely seduced by her sexuality and charm; how she felt about him was still a mystery in his eyes.

The “artificial doll” plant (or artificial intelligence laboratory) was located a short drive outside the city in a suburb with other high tech industries. They arrived at 9:30 (Grace insisted they get there early to be on time), signed in at the main desk and waited for the director to accompany them on a tour of the facilities.

Elmore noted that cameras were everywhere and were capturing their least movement. It seemed typical of a restricted entrance company under government contract.

John Lattimore was a tall, rather intense engineer who had graduated from Cal Tech and was managing the plant where artificial intelligence products were being manufactured. He had known Grace’s husband, George, who was also an engineer specializing in robotics.

He greeted Grace with a big hug and then turned to shake Elmore’s hand. “Good to see you. Grace tells me you’re colleagues in math.”

“Yes. She’s been an asset to our program. She very good with the students.” Elmore replied, looking at Grace as he spoke.

“Great. Well, knowing Grace, she’s filled you in on what we do primarily. And maybe on some of the research that’s not for public eyes but will impact the way we live in the future.”

Elmore nodded and Lattimore motioned them to follow him to the elevators. They exited on the top floor and proceeded down a long corridor to two large steel doors. He swiped his identity card in a slot and they opened up.

Elmore, Grace, and Lattimore entered an alcove where a disembodied voice asked Lattimore to look into a screen for eye identification and then to place his palm on an adjoining plate for hand identification.

As guests, Grace and Elmore had to go through the same process. John explained that the system had vetted them through the FBI, NSA and CIA files, checking for any illegal or terrorist activities in their past. It had taken only a few seconds whereas twenty years ago, they would have been detained for hours to accomplish the same identity scan.

They entered the laboratory itself and signed in at the main desk. They were given identity badges that had to be displayed on their chest wherever they went. If a security agent discovered they weren’t wearing their badge, they would be arrested on the spot.

Elmore was looking right and left like a tourist in New York City viewing the sights. There were multiple robots with articulated limbs that did not resemble humans. According to Lattimore, these were being constructed to perform heavy labor tasks or, for police safety, to enter buildings and detect terrorists or criminals who were holding hostages. They could also assist in construction, sadly eliminating many manual labor jobs in the process.

Elmore speculated that the new world of robotics would force hundreds of thousands of laborers to seek a new form of employment. It had already revolutionized the automobile industry.

As they moved though the plant, Lattimore and Grace were chatting in an animated way about the various machines and their functions.

After a while, Grace came over to walk with Elmore and indicated which machine was experimental and how it would affect life in the future. She pointed out a human-looking prototype that, if properly dressed, could pass for an ordinary citizen in the street. Grace emphasized that this android…in some degrees a future cyborg (part human, part machine)…would easily replace those workers in offices whose tasks were repetitive or required few interchanges with colleagues or the public.

They were working, Grace pointed out, on letting this prototype be more “interactive,” that is: make decisions based on current data, tell and understand jokes, speculate on important issues, and other non-binary activities. It was at the point of being a rudimentary human in appearance and speech patterns. It was one of the major accomplishments of A. I. Its future applications were innumerable. Grace’s face was animated with excitement at the prospect of robotics.

Elmore was amazed at what had been done in cybernetics and A. I. The wide variety of robots and androids were the harbingers of a world with no soul or emotions. These were and would be empty, efficient machines that would respond only to rational algorithms.

The future was clear-cut: no fuzzy edges would be tolerated. It would be responsive to what ideologues thought it should be. Human imprecision and imaginative thinkers would be minimized or rejected by the new masters of the universe.

Elmore had a sense of insecurity when faced with the mechanization of the “new society.” Before long, one might not even know who was a cyborg and who was biological or genetic. In fact, helped by advanced A. I. discoveries, the “master” or consumer would be victimized by the subservient robot which would have been transformed into a dominant player.

Elmore could picture, as in science fiction films, the use of androids to wage war or disrupt political rallies, disguised as citizens exercising their rights to protest, and other extreme situations.

Lattimore came to a section of the laboratory labeled “Experimental. Authorized Entry only.” Grace leaned toward Elmore and said, “This is what we were talking about. They’re experimenting with domestic or home prototypes of all sorts, even sex dolls for multiple purposes as we’ll see.”

John Lattimore smiled and led Grace into the side laboratory where he turned them over to Nataska, a Russian-born scientist who was working for the C. I. A. to create sentient androids for sociological and military ends. She had become an American citizen and was proven to be loyal to her adopted country.

“Nataska will take over from here. After you’ve finished, drop by my office and I’ll debrief you. I would like to hear your comments and opinons.” He waved good-bye and Nataska introduced herself with a trace of a Slavic accent.

“Welcome to the special wing of our artificial intelligence laboratory. I’d like to show you around and introduce you to some of our very experimental androids and explain their use.

“I must remind you that no pictures are allowed, no notes may be taken, and obviously no audio recordings may be made.

“In a sense, this is the commercial division of our company. We are fabricating robots that will seamlessly enter the everyday homestead and perform a number of tasks or duties which are currently associated with spousal responsibilities.

“We are particularly excited about the sentient dimension of our machines. Many couples and individual suffer from sexual dysfunctions. This creates discord and bitterness among the married and single cohorts who are seeking a more fulfilling life.

“Some of the models and activities we are going to demonstrate may shock you. These are not pornographic or inappropriate in themselves; they will show how highly specialized androids can be used as substitutes for the human, not to replace that individual but to complement his or her flaws and inefficiencies.

“Also, if any of you would like to enjoy being serviced by one of our androids, we recommend you volunteer. This demonstration will take place in a special room that will guarantee full privacy and anonymity. In exchange, we ask that you fill out an evaluation form after the experiment is over.”

Nataska led them down an aisle with various robots and androids involved in multiple domestic tasks: cleaning the kitchen floor, making beds, washing out sinks and bathtubs, etc.

Nataska explained, “These will alleviate the boring chores that housewives or husbands must perform on a daily basis to maintain the cleanliness of their homes or apartments. Just as, many years ago, the dishwasher and washer-dryer made housewives’ lives infinitely less onerous and fulfilling, these robots will perform the same labor-saving purpose.”

Next, there were androids who could be trusted to babysit infants, change diapers, and permit parents to leave the house without having to take the children with them or hire a babysitter. In case of an emergency the machines would warn neighbors, the police, and call the parents as well.

“We expect many households to have a domestic android within the next twenty or thirty years. It will turn out to be an enormous market that will create hundreds of thousands of new jobs.” Nataska spoke with conviction and pride at the work being accomplished in the laboratory.

“Next,” she indicated, “we have the green room which is restricted to authorized personnel only. However, Dr. Lattimore has granted you permission to observe our experiments in this area.

“Once again, you may be a little shocked at what you see, but we view these experiments as emotionally beneficial to thousands of individuals who are experiencing sexual malfunctions. In a sense, we are in the business of saving marriages.”

Nataska swiped her card through the slot and opened the door to the large laboratory room. Grace and Elmore were surprised and intrigued by the many robots in various stages of fabrication. Some were virtually complete and closely resembled their human couterparts; others were only partially assembled.

The male prototypes were young, muscular, with realistic silicone skin and limbs. To one side, several penises of varying sizes and lengths were aligned. An aperture in the groin was holding one large penis that would service the female participant in sexual intercourse. The hip movements of the model could be activated by pushing on a row of buttons.

“This is one of our more complete models. Normally, we have female volunteers who demonstrate its efficacy but there are none today. Nonetheless, Grace, if you are interested, we do permit our guests to personally test the device with your written consent. It’s pleasurable and without the slightest risk of harming your genital area.

“If you would like to try it, we can prepare you for that purpose.”

Grace laughed and then reconsidered. After all, she had come here to investigate the sensual capability of these androids. George had been using his masturbatory device with considerable success. Why not give it a try….

“Elmore, what do you think? Is this a step too far?”

“Not really, if you feel it would give you an idea of how the new world will work. Let’s live on the wild side.”

Grace nodded and a smiling Nataska led her to a dressing room where she would leave her clothes. She would be required to be nude to effectively use the device and reap its benefits.

Shortly thereafter Grace reappeared in a hospital gown. Nataska gave her a thorough explanation of how the device worked and reassured her that an assistant would be by her side to observe and intervene if necessary.

A female assistant gave Grace a tube of lubricant that she applied to her vaginal area and a small amount to her breasts that would be manipulated by the robot. The penis of the robot was coated with lubrication prior to penetration.

Nastaka activated the device and Grace watched with considerable interest how it operated. The android could make surprisingly conventional moves of penetrating and rotating its hips for greater friction. Its hands could extend and massage her breasts with various degrees of pressure. Kissing had not yet been developed but the robot could gently caress various parts of the body to promote lubrication and pre-coital stimulation.

Prior to sexual activity, Grace would have to choose the penis or dildo she preferred. She looked at Elmore who had a broad grin on his face; he indicated the largest example, very similar to his own penis. Grace suppressed a chuckle and pointed out the “top of the line” selection.

The assistant fitted the dildo into the groin area of the robot and coated it with lubricant. She explained that the dildo was secured but malleable. It would move with the motions of Grace’s body and not be a static item that could inflict pain or discomfort in her vaginal area.

She took Grace’s gown and had her seat herself on an inclined bench that itself was moveable and responsive to her gestures. The assistant helped Grace apply lubricant to her vagina and surrounding area. She explained that if, at any moment, she felt insecure or uncomfortable, she should make a signal and the machine would be turned off.

Grace spread her thighs and the assistant activated the android. It slowly raised itself and extended its arms to caress her breasts and stomach area. She was delighted to feel its soft touch that was very similar to Elmore’s caressing her prior to intercourse. She noticed that its face resembled a virile twenty-something male and actually blinked its eyes and moved its head from side to side.

In fact, she almost jumped when it said, “Tell me, Grace, if you would like me to do something else.” Grace then answered, “Yes, rub my lower abdomen, please.” The android automatically reached down and skillfully rubbed the area above her vagina. At this time, Grace began to feel stimulated and she took several deep breaths.

From then on, the android responded to her request for sexual caressing, even into her vagina itself. It rubbed her clitoris and thrust two lubricated fingers into her as though being prepared by a human lover.

At her command, the robot raised itself and inserted the lubricated dildo into her vagina very slowly, saying, “Let me know, Grace, if this is acceptable. If you don’t like something, say so.” Grace lay back and raised her hips slightly to let the dildo enter fully. She noted that as she moved her hips, the android would adjust its thrusting accordingly.

The assistant, who was carefully observing each movement, indicated that if Grace would like a faster pace, she could push the corresponding button on the side of the robot.

Grace lifted her head slightly and pushed the “medium thrusting” button. The android immediately began to increase its movements and depth of penetration. She could feel a rush of pleasure invade her body; for a moment she imagined Elmore increasing his penetration and brushing her breasts with his fingers. Her hips began to move in synch with the android’s thrusts. As she moved faster, the android’s thrusts matched hers. Her breathing deepened and she felt a sensual pleasure pervade her lower body.

The assistant, almost jokingly, said, “If you like ‘dirty talk’, the android can incite you with sexual references. Just press the last red button.”

Out of curiosity, Grace activated this capacity. The android’s voice, which had been “humanized,” began to utter a long string of sexual expressions. “So, you like it hard, huh? You’ve got a slick, tight cunt and my dick is really feeling the heat. I’m getting hard and I want to ream you out, my pretty one. You’re my type of fuck. Give it to me, bitch.”

Grace laughed at this function and turned off the speaker. She was not at all excited by “trash talking.”

The android continued to follow her instructions and increase its intensity. Grace experienced a feeling of sexual satisfaction but she knew that orgasm wouldn’t be possible in this manner. She signaled for the assistant to stop the android.

The machine lifted itself in a slow arc and turned to one side with its dildo dripping with lubrication and vaginal fluid. Grace took the towel from the assistant and wiped herself thoroughly.

“If you would like to shower, you can use our facilities in the dressing room,” the assistant pointed out. Grace nodded and glanced briefly at Elmore who indicated his approval.

When she returned clothed, the assistant paged Nataska who returned and asked Grace if she would fill out an evaluation form concerning her sexual encounter with the android.

“I understand from Grace,” said Nataska speaking to Elmore, “that you might be willing to model your penis for insertion in one of our androids. If you are willing to help us out, we can make a digitized model today. It comes with a modest subvention of $75.00. You will receive a credit card in this amount as payment for your services.

“It doesn’t require any unusual activity. As soon as you reach full erection, our camera will digitize your penis and a silicone copy will be made at a later date. You won’t even have to undress, just remove your pants and shorts.”

Elmore was taken aback; he remembered Grace’s reference to this “modeling” possibility but he hadn’t given it serious thought. He looked at Grace who smiled.

“Oh, don’t be a shy guy. Look what I’ve done today. I can help you or even the assistant can fellate you. She’s pretty good so I understand.

It’s all for science, after a fashion.”

“I’m tempted, but in the end where do I cum? In a machine?”

Elmore was torn between good sense and his wish to please Grace. “I’m won’t be filmed, just a digital image, is that the plan?”

“I take that’s a ‘yes’?” Grace asked, pinching his arm in a teasing manner.

“Let’s do it…for the love of science,” Elmore replied, shaking his head.

Nataska intervened and explained Elmore’s options. “If you like, you can masturbate yourself; however, we find that men respond much more rapidly to external manipulation.

“I assume you and Grace are intimate so, if you prefer, she can fellate you to full erection. At the same time, my assistant, Katrina is an expert at male arousal. She can both fellate and masturbate with equal skill. When you reach maximum length and girth, we will take our digital image. Afterwards, you may ejaculate into a nearby sink, taking care not to soil your clothing. If that is an issue, you may undress completely and shower after you finish.”

Elmore glanced at Grace who put her hand on his cheek. “How would you like it to be done? I’ll be glad to work on you, but I don’t want to get undressed again. For science’s sake, Katrina can do us both a favor.”

Elmore had the impression of being a guinea pig with no reasonable way out of his quandary. If he refused, Grace would pout for the rest of the day. If he let Katrina “jerk him off,” she would probably hold that against him in some way. He was definitely not in the mood to masturbate.

“Okay, I need to undress and then let’s get this over with.”

Nataska led them into a side room with chairs, a bench, erotic literature, and an ordinary sink for washing clothes.

She said something in Russian and Katrina laughed. “She asked if you would like me nude or just as I am…”

Grace answered, “He’s a man and you seem to be a very sexy young woman. Let’s do it nude.”

Elmore started to undress and Katrina quickly disrobed, removing her bra and panties with a practiced movement.

She had smallish but firm breasts, an unshaven pubis, and strong, athletic legs. She breathed sexuality and availability. Elmore felt his penis start to engorge as he pulled his shorts off.

Katrina inspected his body and let her fingers run up and down his penis. “He’s big. This will be easy,” she commented.

Grace moved in and stroked his shaft, “Just wait until he reaches full erection. You’ll be impressed. Ladies will like his dildo.”

“Let’s start with you sitting down. If you want, you can stand as you approach ejaculation.” Katrina brought up two chairs and positioned herself on his right. She was left-handed.

Katrina put lubrication on her hands and Elmore’s penile shaft. She whispered in Elmore’s ear, “Why don’t you rub my inner thighs a little. That will put us both in the mood.”

Elmore looked at Grace who said, “Go for it. Whatever works.”

He leaned over as she lubricated his shaft and rubbed her inner thighs. She looked at him and smiled as she began to stroke. “I can suck you a little if that would help?”

Grace gave her okay with a resigned look. “Let’s just get him up. Quickly.”

Katrina swallowed his shaft with a professional technique that porn stars call “deep-throating.” She twisted his penis at the same time in rhythm with her sucking motion. Elmore could feel his penis growing harder but he was uncomfortable with being fellated and observed by Grace. Katrina redoubled her efforts, sucking, and masturbating his shaft. Elmore could tell Katrina was not satisfied with the results; she took the head of his penis and sucked it in a circular motion, using her tongue at the same time.

After about six minutes, Katrina lifted her head up. “I don’t know what’s going on? Do you need more stimulation? Why don’t I ride you a little? I can use my hips. This technique always works.”

Grace reached over and looked at Katrina’s vagina and pubic area. “Have you been tested for disease? I’m not so sure about this…”

“Yes. It’s required by the agency, given the type of work I do. I can squeeze him with my vagina walls. You’ll see. He’ll be rock hard in no time at all.”

Grace withdrew her hand and looked at Elmore. “Sweetie, let yourself go. Don’t worry about me. I’m strictly neutral.”

Katrina sat astride Elmore’s penis and began to rotate her hips in tight circles. She moved up and down, massaged his testicles as she moved. Elmore felt an increased sensitivity in his groin area. He looked at Grace and tried to relax and “let himself go.” His penis was getting harder but it was still not up to maximal length.

After five minutes of stimulation and up and down motions, Katrina uttered a series of cries and guttural moans. Her body shook and she leaned into Elmore and trembled with a powerful orgasm.

She was breathing deeply as she stood up, rubbing her pubic area, enjoying the sensitivity of her spasm. “I’m sorry but I don’t think he’s ready yet. I did my best.”

Grace got up, took her panties off, and settled on Elmore penile shaft that was erect but not rigid.

“Let me try a thing or two. Take a deep breath, lover, and let’s get you hard as a rock.” She moved up and down, squeezing his penis as she went, and whispering in his ear. “You are my love, you are. I really want you to fill me up. The way you normally do. Do this for me.”

Elmore grabbed her hips and moved them even harder. “Good God. I’m really erect. I’m going to cum. It’s incredible. Get off. Let’s take the digital image.”

Grace lifted her hips and stepped aside. Elmore’s penis was stretched to its fullest. It even seemed longer than Grace remembered.

Katrina, still nude, aimed the camera and took several images. “Thank you,” she said to Grace. “He’s one of the biggest we’ve seen.”

Grace walked Elmore to the sink and stroked his penis. A full jet of sperm came out and his body trembled. His face was pink with strain and he hugged her shoulders. Katrina handed him two wet towels that he used before he showered.

“Well, I guess you don’t need to see our female dolls and their capabilities,” Nataska asked when they returned to the main room.

“No, he’s actually used one of the toys already, in my bedroom.”

“Science has been served today. It took, nonetheless, the human hand to bring about effective results. Androids are remarkable, but the human factor will always be needed.” Elmore issued his proclamation with assurance.

Nataska nodded. As a Russian woman, she admitted that no android could replace the warmth and excitement that her husband generated. “Talking to each other…even doing a little ‘dirty talking’ during sex…is something that machines can’t replicate. We want to make life easier and less cumbersome. Humans can always pull the plug or destroy the mainframe computer if things get out of hand.

“Please don’t’ tell Dr. Lattimore I said this,” she asked.

“No way,” Elmore responded. “Androids and cyborgs are future-driven but humans will always find a way to shape the paths of tomorrow with or without machines.”

On the way back to the hotel, Elmore took Grace’s hand. “Thank you for saving the day. What you whispered to me made a difference. I’d like to say, I’m in love with you as well. If you’re religious, let’s say that a divine force put us together. I need someone by my side, and I think you feel the same. I made my choice. I hope you have as well.”

“You’ve known that for a while, Elmore Clemmentson. It’s more than sex, which has been stupendous. It’s your person, your warmth, and the fact that we fit, we’re synched. I like to talk to you. I’d look forward to your coming home. The little things that truly matter.

“We’ll be partners for the time being. When we decide we want to be linked, so to speak, we’ll cross that bridge in due time. I think we’ll know the moment when George and Millicent will give their blessing for our union.”

Elmore knew that Grace would never be a Stepford wife; he had accepted her human dimension, good times and bad. Plastic robots were the antithesis of happiness. Genetics had served a useful purpose in creating very rare and special people such as Millicent and Grace Pendleton.

“How do you feel after today’s manipulations?” Grace asked. Her voice had a playful tone.

“I’m a little tired. Katrina was all over me. But I’m horny at the same time. Did you have something else in mind?” He pinched her thigh.

“Your call. Your energy level, my love. I feel like we’re twenty years old again. I’m shameless…anytime, anywhere.”

“I’ll let you know after dinner. It’s on me this time.”

“You know, you’ve met my children. I would really like to meet Caitlin, hint, hint.”

“She’s feisty and looks just like her mother. You two would hit it off right away. I’ll be seeing her at Thanksgiving. Maybe we can arrange something a little sooner.”

“The sooner, the better,” Grace said. “Shame, I was going to invite you over.”

“When we get home, I’ll give Caitlin a call. You two can chat on Zoom. I miss her lot.”

“Are we going to continue to sleep over?” Grace mused.

“One step at a time, “Elmore replied. “Yes, of course, if we can arrange something convenient.” He reached over and patted her knee.

“One thing for sure…this evening, no linear equations, no quadratic equations.” Elmore chuckled at his comment.

“Archimedes is off limits as well,” Grace retorted.

“It’s all Ovid’s Ars amatoria,” Elmore asserted.

The future would be human, digitized, and robotic, but real people would manage the fate of silicon dolls and machines.

Jonathan Sawyer