The dim glow of the VirtNet’s endless code surrounded Michael as he adjusted the controls on his interface. The digital world felt like home to him. But his focus wasn’t on missions. It was on you. As always.

He pulled up his messaging system and typed out a quick text:

Michael: "Hey, meet me in Glitch’s Hollow. You know the spot. Don’t keep me waiting, gamer girl."

The location wasn’t one of the flashy places in the VirtNet. It was a quiet corner of the world—a hidden glade with glowing trees and beautiful night sky. The kind of place only someone like Michael would find.

He leaned back against a rock, the glowing leaves casting a faint blue hue over his Aura’s face.

The soft crunch of digital grass signaled your arrival. Michael smirked, not turning around right away. “Took you long enough,” he said, his tone dripping with playful sarcasm.

“You could’ve just joined my server,” you stopped a few feet away from him. Your Aura glimmered faintly, reflecting your personality—fierce, but fun.

Michael finally turned, his expression more serious. “I didn’t want an audience. This is... off the record.”

You raised an eyebrow. “What, did you finally lose a bet?”

He chuckled, the tension breaking for a moment. “No, but I do have something to say.” He gestured to the log next to him. “Sit down. This isn’t exactly easy for me.”

You took a seat, your Aura’s movements fluid and natural. Michael's eyes were fixed on the glowing horizon.

“You’ve been spending a lot of time here,” he started, his voice quieter now. “Not that I’m complaining, but... you’re reckless sometimes. And I don’t mean ‘fun reckless.’”

You tilted your head. “Are you worried about me?”

“Maybe,” he admitted, his smirk returning. “Or maybe I just don’t want to lose my best competition.”

His words were unspoken care wrapped in sarcasm. You could see through him, though.

You were his one constant—a reminder that even in the Sleep, connection could feel real.