9.Tension

Howard encounters Rosie, Bridget's daughter, at a mall who confronts him about his relationship with Bridget, arguing that as a machine he shouldn't be dating her mother. After an awkward public confrontation, Howard and Bridget discuss the family friction and online gossip surrounding their relationship, revealing that public opinion is sharply divided on his right to exist and date a human.

Howard is confronted by Rosie at a Vulcan mall while window shopping. She demands he stop seeing her mother Bridget, insisting that as a machine rather than a true human, he cannot be an appropriate romantic partner. Howard defends himself by noting he is the real consciousness of a human, but Rosie refuses to debate the matter and dismisses his arguments before leaving. The encounter draws onlooker attention, some with hostile expressions, and Howard recognizes he has been identified as a celebrity of sorts.

Later at Bridget's home, Howard recounts the confrontation. Bridget reveals she has not told him about it because it is her family's problem, though she acknowledges that Rosie and her other children have expressed disapproval of their relationship. She also mentions there is gossip circulating about Howard, including inappropriate questions about his physical capabilities. This causes both of them to laugh together, with Bridget appreciating Howard's ability to share her sense of humor in ways her late husband Stéphane could not.

Howard researches online commentary about his android persona and discovers public opinion is sharply divided—some view him as a Frankenstein's Monster while others see him as having equal rights to exist. Most people accept his presence but draw a line at his romantic relationship with Bridget. Howard realizes that Bridget is protecting him from the social fallout, leaving him uncertain about how to address the growing tension.