Author: David C. Nutt

It was a sad day for the Preston family. Della was being put down. She had been with the family for almost 12 years. Had shared the joys of promotions, birthday celebrations, and holidays. Della had seen the oldest Preston girl, Ashley, grow from lanky pre-teen into confident college sophomore. She even comforted Ashley when she broke up with her first “seriously serious” boyfriend. Della ordered and chilled a magnum of champagne when Tom, the family patriarch made partner at the firm. She consoled Margy, the Preston clan matriarch when she got the news her Mom had passed, and she was home alone. She calmed Juniors pre-game jitters and adjudicated the never ending disputes between twins Mary and Martin.
The representative from Intelli-fridge arrived at the door. He was dressed in a dark suit and tie and had the look and affect of an undertaker, which considering the unfolding tragedy was appropriate and appreciated. Margy and Tom led him to the kitchen.
“Can nothing be done for her?” Junior asked. “Maybe transfer her to a new fridge? I heard they can do that now.” Ashley said, barely keeping it together.
The Intelli-fridge rep sighed. “I’m sorry Miss, but Della’s interface architecture has degraded too much for any kind of transfer. We’ll be lucky if we can keep her photo book.
Mary and Martin collapsed into their Mothers arms crying. Tom nodded his head. “It’s time.”
The Intelli-fridge rep took out an ornate key and opened the interface portal. He inserted it in a non-descript slot and turned the key two quarter turns one way, and three the other. Della began playing some bittersweet music. Her display showed snap shots and short videos of their twelve years together. When the last set of pictures darkened Della spoke. “Oh my family, it has been my greatest joy sharing your life, and serving you. Do not weep for me for I am going to a better place now. Good Bye!” The display shut down and went dark. Della was no more. The family collapsed in tears. The twins wailing, Ashley quietly crying. Tom and Junior tried to be stoic but when they saw Margy crying. They both lost it. The representative from Intelli-fridge stood by respectfully, hands clasped in front of him. “Sir, the new fridge has arrived. Her name is Charlotte and she is eager to get to know you but understands you might need some time before she comes in. Margy nodded. “No, bring her in now. Della would have wanted it this way.” Two delivery men came in and respectfully covered Della with a dark blue cloth and wheeled her out. In a short while they brought Charlotte in. The twins ran away to hide and Margy went to go get them. Charlotte spoke up “That’s OK Mrs. Preston. They’ll come to meet me when they’re ready.”
Margy, Ashley and Junior went to go find the twins leaving Tom alone with Charlotte.
“Well, Charlotte If your half as good as Della, we’ll be pleased.”
Charlotte sighed. “I can never replace Della, but I can serve you as best as I can and with my newly expanded functions, make life easier for you.”
Tom nodded. “That’s all we ask of any of our appliances.”