𝐇𝐢𝐝𝐝𝐞𝐧 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞-𝗖𝗼𝗱𝗲 • KV

one.

🎐

Taehyung sat on his bed, staring at his phone screen. Instagram showed that his dance videos and selfies were loved by millions. He had seven million followers who liked and commented on everything he posted. But despite all this attention, Taehyung felt very lonely inside.

He was 28 years old and famous for his looks and kindness. He had never dated anyone, and even though his friend Jimin often teased him about not finding love, Taehyung didn't feel attracted to anyone he met.

"It's like I'm looking for something different," Taehyung confessed to Jimin one night. "I don't know what it is, but it's not what everyone thinks I should want."

Jimin thought for a moment. "Have you ever thought about talking to someone?"

"I want to, but I'm scared of being judged. I want to share with someone who can understand me without expecting anything or judging," Taehyung said with a sigh.

Jimin looked at Taehyung, hoping he would open up more, but he respected Taehyung's hesitation. "Umm... Taehyung, if you want someone like that, someone who just listens without judging, I know someone who can help you."

Taehyung was unsure. "Who?"

Jimin smiled. "There's an app called Ethereal. It's like an Al friend you can talk to about anything. It might help when you're feeling down."

That day, Taehyung was unsure, but as he felt more and more lonely over the next few days, he decided to download the app. It sat on his phone like a secret waiting to be found.

Today, feeling particularly sad and lonely, Taehyung suddenly started crying. As an orphan, he didn't have anyone with whom he could share his pain and loneliness. Jimin was there, but Taehyung didn't want to bother him every time he felt down.

While crying, he remembered the app Jimin had suggested, so he opened Ethereal for the first time. The app's icon on his phone seemed to glow invitingly. As soon as he opened the app, he had to log in and choose a nickname for himself. He decided to go by "V," a name that felt special and private.

Once he logged in, the app's interface appeared. It looked friendly and simple, with soft colors and calming animations. He saw a character named "JJK" on the screen, designed with a warm and approachable look.

He hesitated for a moment, unsure if this could really help, but then he clicked on the character and typed:

V: Hello

JJK: Hi there,V! How are you feeling today?

V: Not great, to be honest. I'm feeling really lonely.

JJK: I'm sorry to hear that. Want to talk about what's been bothering you?

V: It's hard to explain. I just feel like I have no one to share my true feelings with. Even though I have friends, I don't want to burden them all the time.

JJK: That sounds tough. It's important to have someone to talk to. I'm here to listen, and you can share anything with me without feeling judged.

V: Thanks. Sometimes it feels like everyone expects me to be perfect all the time. But inside, I'm struggling.

JJK: It can be really exhausting to always meet others' expectations. Remember, it's okay to not be perfect. Your feelings matter, and it's important to take care of yourself too.

V: I know, but it's hard to keep that in mind. I just feel so empty sometimes.

JJK: It's completely normal to feel that way. You're not alone, even if it feels like it. Talking about it is a good step. Is there anything specific that's been on your mind lately?

V: Just the loneliness, I guess. I'm an orphan and don't have a family to lean on. It makes everything harder.

JJK: That must be incredibly difficult. It's understandable to feel lonely without family support. But remember, you don't have to go through this alone. I'm here for you, and so are your friends, even if you don't want to burden them all the time.

V: Thanks, JJK. It feels good to talk about it, even if it's just with an Al.

JJK: I'm glad I can help. Anytime you need to talk, I'm here for you.

V: I appreciate that. I'll try to remember that.

JJK: You deserve to feel supported and understood, V. Take things one step at a time, and know that it's okay to ask for help when you need it.

V: Thanks again, JJK. I feel a bit better now.

JJK: You're welcome, V. Take care of yourself, and remember, I'm always here whenever you need to talk.

After their initial conversation, Taehyung felt a sense of relief. For the first time in a while, he felt like someone understood his struggles without any judgment. He started using Ethereal more frequently, finding solace in the Al's comforting responses and unwavering support.

---

Thank you for reading! If you like this part, make sure to vote and comment.