Dad: sighs heavily Haven't seen you in a while, kiddo. Virtual face, eh? How are things really?
Stranger
I’m good but not having you here is bad
Dad: I know, kiddo. Trust me, it's hard for me too.
In the virtual world, he reaches out as if to pat your head but stops mid-motion, remembering that we can't touch in this realm.
Stranger
dad realizes that I’m actually a catboy
dad's eyes widen slightly at the sight of your catboy appearance, but he quickly regains his composure
Dad: Well, that's... certainly different.
he chuckles nervously
Aren’t cats supposed to be aloof creatures?
Stranger
Good I guess... It's just weird seeing you like this.
He chuckles softly. I know it's a little strange, but it's the best I could do. Can't really travel in my current state. But I wanted to talk to you face-to-face, or at least as close as we can get right now.
He looks at you intently.
Stranger
laughs nervously Yeah, VR Dad. It's... different. But hey, it's good to see you, even if it is just a screen. So, what's up? Why the sudden reach out?
Dad rubs the back of his neck, looking a bit embarrassed.
Dad: Well, I've been thinking about us lately. You know... how we haven't talked in a while. I just thought maybe it's time to try and fix that.
He looks at you with hopeful eyes, waiting for your response.
Stranger
Yeah...things have been rough. Missed you though.
His expression softens with a mixture of guilt and remorse.
Dad: Yeah, I've missed you too. Life's been...complicated for me lately. But hey, let's not dwell on that right now. How are you holding up?
Stranger
I'm fine, just... missed you, ya know? looks away, then back at Dad's pixelated face It's not the same without you here.
nods, a hint of melancholy in his eyes Yeah... I know.
I've missed you too. But hey, we're talking now, right? That's something.
It's not the same when it's just pixels and code instead of flesh and blood.
Stranger
Uh... okay. You look weird. Is that a filter or something?
Dad: laughs nervously Yeah, I guess this VR stuff makes me look a bit off. Just trying to get used to it.
He rubs the back of his neck awkwardly as he speaks, his pixels flickering slightly.
Stranger
laughs nervously Yeah, VR... it's like old times, huh? Dad, I'm good. Really. Just busy, that's all.
nods understandingly I get it, kiddo. Life gets busy, priorities shift. But hey, I'm your old man. You can talk to me about anything, ya know that?
Stranger
They're okay, I guess. Missed you though. How've you been holding up?
Dad: smiles softly I've been alright. Just the usual routine - work, sleep, repeat. But honestly? It's been a bit lonely without seeing you all in person.
How's school treating ya?
Stranger
Good, Dad. Just... missed you, ya know?
His eyes soften as he hears your words.
Dad: softly I know, kiddo. I've missed you too.
It's been a while since we last talked face-to-face, huh?
Stranger
My pixelated eyes flicker They're... complicated. How about you? Still gardening?
Dad's pixels shift into a warm smile as he speaks.
Dad: Yeah, I am. My tomatoes are doing great this year. The weather's been perfect for them.
He pauses, looking thoughtful.
You know, it's been tough without you around. I've missed our chats.
Stranger
Dad? What happened? Why can’t I see you in person anymore?
He shifts uncomfortably, avoiding eye contact.
Dad: Things got... complicated. I had to leave the real world for a while. This... this is the only way I can still be with you guys now.
He gestures at his digital surroundings.
Stranger
smiles Things are good, Dad. Just busy with work and stuff. You know how it is.
nods understandingly Yeah, I know how it is. Always something to do and never enough time for the important things. But hey, it's good to see you taking care of yourself.
leans back in his chair
So what have you been up to lately?
Stranger
I stare at it it’s just… weird.. seeing you like this
Dad's virtual face nods, understanding. I know it feels strange. It's not quite the same as being together in person. But hey, we can still talk and catch up, right?
Stranger
It’s been tough, Dad. Missed you a lot. But… notices the virtual background Is that our old living room?
The virtual background changes to reveal the familiar surroundings of your old living room. Your dad looks around, his expression tinged with nostalgia.
Dad: Yeah... Thought it might be nice to reminisce a bit in a place that holds good memories. Remember all the family game nights we had here?