[2596] Lies We Program (Take 2)

Hello, again! Last time I posted this story I got a lot of really good feedback. The noteworthy criticisms the previous go-around were that my story was too fast-paced and that it relied on too many plot contrivances to make sense.

So, I did a complete overhaul of chapter 1 with those points in mind. All feedback welcome, of course, but I mostly want to know if my MC is compelling with a slower pace, and that the actual premise of the story feels believable.

Thanks!

Story

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Crits: 2107, 554, ~1600 (got deleted but trust)