Mandatory Motherhood: Short Stories

Photogenic

Chris eyed the flying drone questioningly. It moved about with grace and ease keeping its camera centered on Chris at all times. “So uh… What did you want to speak to me about?”

A happy-sounding voice came from the drone. “Oh it’s my department head who wants to speak with you actually but since he is delayed in a meeting at the moment, this gives me some free time to talk with you myself.”

Chris looked at the drone in worry. “Am I in trouble or something? Are you just trying to butter me up before he talks to me?”

“Oh, no no no no!” The voice was quick to try and disrupt any such thoughts. “I mean the head of the division who came went to pick up the delivery from the base was peeved he had to wait at a distance for you to get further away. But it’s not like it matters in the long run. Having Aaron there to prepare the shipments saves us time, resources, and manpower to work on other projects and locations.”

Chris only looked half convinced at her words but she sighed deciding to let it go. “So why do you want to talk to me then? Couldn’t I just do something to pass the time while I wait for your boss?”

The drone zoomed in closer to Chris unnerving her and at this range, she could swear she could make out huffing and drooling sounds from the speaker. “NO! I mean yes, but I have a proposition for you. I would like to take pictures i mean study you and your daughter spending time together.” Chris was feeling unnerved by this lady, she could tell this gal was a little unhinged. “And you will be compensated. If you agree I will have it sent on the transport they send for the next pickup.”

Chris admitted she was interested in what she would get for doing this, so she gave in. “I guess it wouldn’t hurt. It is just about time for Starla’s lunch anyway. You have a deal, come along them.”

The drone bobbed around as she heard the person behind its controls shout “SCORE!” before clearing her throat and following Chris. Chris was immediately starting to have second thoughts.

Starla was distracted by the drone at the table, she kept staring at it while Chris tried to feed her a spoonful of stuff from a plastic container. “Starla, I know the shiny new thing is there but it’s time for num nums! Today's mix is green beans, mandarins, and beets.”

Starla looked at Chris and raised her forehooves in the air. “Milk num nums!”

Chris giggled and booped Starla’s nose. “You can have some milk after you eat ok? Now open wide.”

Starla opened her mouth and let the spoon float inside to deliver its contents. After the empty spoon exited her maw she chewed on the mush and squealed happily. A loud squeal of delight came from the drone’s speaker followed by the lady screeching “She so cute!”

Chris half smiled while giving the drone a droopy-eyed stare. “She’s one of those types I see…”

The camera shifted over towards Chris and huffing sounds could be heard from the speaker. “More! Let me see more! I must record more videos! I must take more pictures!”

“A-alright…” Chris was starting to think this wasn’t a good idea anymore.