Kay Whatley was standing at Chip Mantooth's front door. His new job with Plushenko Devices, Inc. put him on a path to wealth, but he was in over his head. Millions of dollars were flying around the internet like bats in a cave. Kay wasn't sure where this money originated or where it landed. If Chip thought he could outsmart his boss Jan Zabar, he was wrong. Kay rang the bell a second time. She knew his doorbell was connected to a video feed he could see from his office.

Kay woke up without relying on Tracey's alarm and soothing reminders, which didn't kick in until she was well into her shower. Since Kay wised up to the chatbots at work, to her theory about central recycling, and now the soap she was using, Kay realized that she had given technology too much control. The damn soap was recommended by Beauty Bot because a scan revealed dry skin. Kay never noticed dry skin. This was beyond clever marketing at the grocery store. Companies were handing their products to her. With a few words, the money was withdrawn from her bank account and a drone on its way. That was the way consumers lived and it was all controlled by a few select companies.

Kay was looking into Chip Mantooth's employer Plushenko Devices, Inc. because his recent influx of wealth raised red flags. Chip had always been cautious and never flashy as he was now with a fancy car and nice rental home. His home was filled with smart features that Kay and her peers could never afford. Chip never had a huge group of friends and it was troubling to see him dangle his wealth to gain popularity. Jade lusted after him before he had the trappings of prosperity and liked Chip whether he had a great job or not. Kay was raised to help people who needed it. Chip didn't ask for help, but Kay was determined to find out if Plushenko Devices, Inc. and Jan Zabar were taking advantage of her friend's good nature.