"But I have been faithful," Azrael said, and Theresa had never heard that emotion in his voice before, such dejected sadness. It felt as if his stomach was made of stone. "I did everything that You asked of me."

"And We thank you," the voice said. "But your time has passed. You have earned your rest."

"And now You're just throwing me away?"

"Must you use such words?" the voice asked, its delicious tones unwavering. "Other firms employ only the X models now; it is very ...