The two women sat, and each promised themselves not to be the first to speak. The office was dark and streamlined and it smelled of lemon disinfectant. The older woman was still. The younger felt her leg bounce against the desk and her throat tasted of tepid bile. The speaker waited. The older woman had paid for three words. Any more cost at least a month’s wages.  

“We can’t do this.” said the younger woman - “It’s not right.” 

“Look.” said the older - “It’s turning on.” 

A white light grew from the base of the speaker. Then, a voice. 

“You are Miss Mary Maiden and Mrs Joanna Maiden. Confirm.” it said. 

“Confirmed.” 

“Yes. I mean, confirmed.” 

“The deceased is Mister John Maiden. Confirm”. 

They did.  

“You have paid for three words. The Crad Champion Corporation has reanimated the final brainwaves for you. Please enjoy. Final brainwaves of the deceased are as follows:” 

“Oh God,” said Mary. “No.” 

“He was a good man. He loved life. He deserves company at the end.” said Joanna. 

They looked at the speaker. 

“Thank God” it said - “Finally. Thank God, finally. Thank God, finally. Thank God, finally.” 

Mary felt her hands turn cold and Joanna closed her eyes.