My Game Life

Chapter 9: Crossing the Line

Preeti's Request

In the game, Pink and Austin had grown closer than ever. Their adventures had forged a deep bond, one that transcended the virtual world. One evening, as they were exploring the serene landscapes of Mount Hua, Preeti decided it was time to take a step further.

“Adi, can I ask you something?” Pink typed, her character standing next to Austin’s at the edge of a picturesque cliff.

“Of course, Pink. What’s on your mind?” Abeer replied, his curiosity piqued.

“I was thinking... Would you join Line? It’s an app everyone from the game uses to connect in real life. We could chat there too,” Preeti suggested, her virtual character gazing out over the horizon.

Abeer’s heart skipped a beat. The idea of connecting with Pink outside the game both thrilled and terrified him. He had always kept his gaming life separate from his real life, and this request meant breaking down that barrier.

Abeer’s Internal Struggle

As Abeer read Pink’s message, a whirlwind of emotions surged through him. He sat back in his chair, staring at the screen. Letting Pink into his real life felt like a significant and daunting step.

On one hand, he cherished their friendship and the thought of growing closer to her was exciting. On the other hand, the idea of exposing his real self, with all his insecurities and fears, was overwhelming. He had always found solace in the anonymity of the game, where he could be anyone he wanted to be.

He confided his feelings to Aymoon the next day at their regular café. “Aymoon, Pink wants me to join Line so we can chat outside the game. I don’t know if I’m ready for that,” Abeer said, his voice filled with uncertainty.

Aymoon looked at him thoughtfully. “Abeer, it’s natural to feel scared. But Pink clearly values your friendship. Maybe it’s worth taking the risk.”

Abeer nodded, knowing she was right. “I guess so. It’s just... what if she doesn’t like the real me?”

Aymoon smiled reassuringly. “From everything you’ve told me, Pink likes you for who you are. Just be yourself.”

Taking the Plunge

With Aymoon’s words in mind, Abeer made his decision. That evening, he logged into the game and sent Pink a message.

“Okay, Pink. I’ll join Line. What’s your ID?” he typed, his heart pounding in his chest.

Pink’s response was immediate and filled with joy. “Yay! Here’s my ID: PinkyPreeti.”

Abeer took a deep breath and downloaded the Line app. He created a profile, using his real name but choosing a simple avatar. He hesitated for a moment before sending Pink a friend request.

Minutes later, he received a notification: “PinkyPreeti has accepted your friend request.”

Their first message exchange was tentative but warm.

Preeti: Hi, Adi! Or should I say Abeer? 😊

Abeer: Hi, Pink. Or should I say Preeti? 😅

Preeti: This feels so weird but exciting! I’m glad we’re doing this.

Abeer: Me too. It’s a bit nerve-wracking, but I’m happy we can talk here.

Growing Closer

Over the next few days, Abeer and Preeti’s conversations on Line became more frequent. They started to share more about their real lives, their dreams, and their fears. Abeer found himself opening up in ways he hadn’t expected.

Preeti: So, what do you do when you’re not saving the world in Age of Wushu?

Abeer: I’m a software developer. It’s a bit boring compared to our adventures, but I enjoy it.

Preeti: That’s awesome! I work in marketing and part time barista at my uncle's cafe. It’s hectic but fun. Do you have any hobbies?

Abeer: I love reading and occasionally sketching. What about you?

Preeti: I enjoy painting and hiking. Maybe one day I’ll show you some of my work.

Abeer: I’d love that. 😊

Their messages flowed naturally, and Abeer found himself looking forward to their chats more and more. Despite his initial fears, he felt a growing connection with Preeti. She was kind, funny, and understanding—just as she was in the game.

Real-Life Challenges

In real life, Preeti continued to deal with Prabhas’s persistent attention. His frequent visits to her house became a topic of their Line conversations.

Preeti: Prabhas brought me flowers again today. It’s sweet but also a bit much.

Abeer: That sounds intense. Have you talked to him about it?

Preeti: I have, but he doesn’t seem to get the hint. It’s frustrating.

Abeer: Just keep setting those boundaries. If he truly cares, he’ll respect them.

Preeti: Thanks, Adi. You always know what to say.

For Abeer, navigating this new phase of their friendship was both exhilarating and challenging. His jealousy of Prabhas simmered beneath the surface, but he didn’t want to burden Preeti with his feelings. Instead, he focused on being supportive and understanding.

Their conversations ranged from light-hearted banter to deep, meaningful discussions. Abeer found himself sharing things he had never told anyone else. The more they talked, the closer they became.

Abeer’s Inner Conflict

Despite the growing closeness, Abeer couldn’t shake the lingering unease. The conversation about Prabhas still gnawed at him. He didn’t understand why it affected him so much, but he knew he had to address it.

One evening, as they were chatting on Line, Abeer decided to be honest.

Abeer: Can I tell you something, Preeti?

Preeti: Of course, Adi. What’s up?

Abeer: I’ve been feeling a bit weird about something. It’s silly, but I think I’m a little jealous of Prabhas.

Preeti: Oh, Adi. There’s no need to be. You’re my best friend, and you mean so much to me. Prabhas is just... there. You’re the one I trust and care about.

Abeer felt a wave of relief wash over him. Her words reassured him more than he had expected.

Abeer: Thanks, Preeti. I guess I needed to hear that. You mean a lot to me too.

Preeti: Always, Adi. We’re in this together.

A New Chapter

As they continued to navigate this new chapter of their friendship, Abeer and Preeti found solace in their growing connection. The lines between their real lives and their virtual world began to blur, creating a bond that was both unique and deeply meaningful.

With each message exchanged on Line, Abeer felt his fears slowly dissipate. He realized that Preeti valued him for who he was, and that was all that mattered. Together, they faced the challenges of their respective worlds, drawing strength and comfort from each other.