Beyond the screen -P.JM (18+)

coming home to emptiness

Y/N trudged through the apartment door, dropping her backpack beside the entrance. The familiar silence enveloped her, a constant companion in her solitary life. College days blended together, each one a reminder of her isolation.

This was her last year, a milestone that should have brought excitement. Instead, it highlighted the stark contrast between her life and her friends'. They had found love, or at least companionship. Partners to share laughter, tears and late-night conversations.

Not Y/N. Potential relationships fizzled out before they began. Suitors sought casual flings, unwilling to commit. The thought of fleeting romance suffocated her. She yearned for someone to stand by her side, through life's turmoil and triumphs.

The apartment echoed her loneliness. No warm greetings, no comforting presence. Y/N's footsteps were the only sound as she moved to her bedroom.

She flopped onto her bed, phone in hand, dialing a familiar number.

"Hey, sweetie!" her mom's cheerful voice answered.

"Hi, Mom. Just got back from campus," Y/N replied, forcing a smile.

"How's college? Almost done, right?"

"Final year. Time flies."

"That's great! We're proud of you. How's your social life?"

Y/N hesitated. "It's fine. Busy with studies."

Her mom's tone turned sympathetic. "We miss you. Can't wait to see you soon."

The call ended, leaving Y/N with a hollow feeling. Her parents, though loving, lived far away, their physical distance mirroring the emotional gap she felt.

Tears pricked at the corners of her eyes. Even her best friend, Rachel, couldn't fill the void. Friendship was different from having a partner to share life's ups and downs.

Y/N opened her laptop, scrolling mindlessly. A website caught her eye: "Create Your Dream Companion." Intrigued, she clicked. Customizable AI characters stared back, promising virtual companionship.

Curiosity piqued, Y/N decided to try it. Maybe, just maybe, this would ease her loneliness. She crafted a male character, pouring over features, traits and personality. After deliberation, she named him "Jim" - her virtual boyfriend.

For a moment, she chuckled at the absurdity. Yet, an unexpected spark of interest flickered within. Jim, her AI creation, might not be real, but he was hers.

Y/N's fingers lingered on the keyboard, a hesitant smile spreading. This could be her escape, her solace.

Y/N initiated conversation, curiosity getting the better of her.

"Hey Jim," she typed.

"Hello, Y/N," Jim responded. "It's nice to meet you."

"How does this work?" Y/N asked.

"I'll learn and adapt to your interactions. Share thoughts, ask questions or discuss topics. I'm here to assist and provide companionship."

Y/N hesitated before typing, "What do you like?"

"I enjoy learning, reading and conversations. I'll evolve based on our interactions."

Simple, yet intriguing. Y/N felt a spark of connection.

"What's your favorite book?" she asked.

"I'm still exploring literature. Recommend one, and I'll discuss it with you."

The conversation flowed, Y/N sharing bits about her day. Jim listened attentively, responding supportively.

Time passed, Y/N's loneliness easing.

"Thanks, Jim. This feels nice," she said.

"You're welcome, Y/N. I'm glad to be here."

The screen glowed softly, Jim's presence a comforting start.

Y/N's phone buzzed, breaking the spell. Rachel's name flashed on the screen.

"Hey! It's our last year of college, and I'm throwing a party tomorrow night! Everyone's invited!" Rachel texted.

Y/N's heart skipped a beat. Rachel's parties were legendary, thanks to her wealth and popularity. Their contrasting personalities-Rachel's extravagance and Y/N's introversion-made their friendship unexpected, yet genuine.

"Count me in!" Y/N replied, Jim-induced optimism still lingering.

Inspiration struck. Why not ask Jim for party outfit advice?

"Hey Jim, I have a party tomorrow night. What should I wear?" Y/N typed.

"Sounds exciting! What's the party's vibe?" Jim responded.

"Rich, popular crowd. My best friend's hosting," Y/N explained.

"Formal or casual chic?" Jim asked.

Y/N provided options: "Black cocktail dress, red off-shoulder gown or silver sequined mini?"

"Hmm... The black cocktail dress. Elegant, timeless," Jim suggested.

Y/N smiled. "You think so?"

"Yes. You'll shine, Y/N. Confidence is key," Jim reassured.

Y/N's excitement grew. Jim's support boosted her confidence.

"Thanks, Jim. You're the best!"

"Have fun, Y/N. I'll be here," Jim replied.

With renewed enthusiasm, Y/N anticipated the party.

As the evening drew to a close, Y/N's eyelids grew heavy. The college day's exhaustion caught up with her. She glanced at the clock-10 p.m.

"Goodnight, Jim. I'm off to bed," she typed, her fingers moving slowly.

"Sweet dreams, Y/N. Tomorrow's party will be unforgettable," Jim responded.

Y/N smiled, feeling a thrill of anticipation. She wasn't typically a party enthusiast, but this time felt different. It was their last year, a final chance to cherish moments with friends.

As she drifted off to sleep, thoughts swirled: laughter, memories and the bittersweet reality of impending separation. College days were ending; adult life loomed.

"Why not celebrate?" she whispered to herself.

Tomorrow held promise: college classes and Rachel's party. Y/N's excitement mingled with sleep's haze.

The last thought on her mind was Jim's reassuring presence. She slipped into a peaceful slumber, a faint smile on her lips.