Pixels and Reality 2
Out of the blue, Raitha asked, "Shyam, do you want to come with me?"
Shyam was stunned. He hadn't expected such an invitation. His mind scrambled for a logical answer, but his heart had already decided. It didn't want to say no.
"Yes, of course," he replied, trying to sound casual. "I already have my passport. I'll just get my visa, and we'll be good to go."
Raitha nodded in excitement. "It's just a short trip—one day and two nights."
They planned to stay at the same hotel in Japan.
Several Days Later
The day of departure arrived. As Shyam stepped into the airport, his eyes searched for Raitha. And then, there she was—Raitha, in real life, standing just a few steps away.
His heart pounded in his chest. Seeing her in person felt surreal. He had known her as a VTuber, a voice and an avatar on a screen. But now, she was right in front of him—real, tangible, breathtaking. His nervousness skyrocketed, but this wasn't just any nervousness. This was something deeper. This was love.
He forced himself to stay calm. They greeted each other, exchanged a few words, and soon boarded the plane together.
During the flight, they chatted about the places they wanted to visit. The excitement of the trip mixed with the quiet realization that this was their first time truly being together outside of the digital world.
Arrival in Japan
After a long flight, they finally landed. As they stepped off the plane, the crisp foreign air filled their lungs. With a map in hand, they navigated their way toward the hotel.
The place wasn't particularly large or luxurious. It had a classic, old-cultural charm—a cozy, peaceful atmosphere that carried a nostalgic beauty.
But then came the shock.
Their rooms weren't separate.
They had been booked into the same room.
Shyam's brain nearly short-circuited. Two whole nights—together, in the same space. His mind raced with thoughts, while Raitha, in contrast, seemed completely unbothered. In fact, she looked happy about it.
He tried to shake off his nervousness. "I guess we should just rest today and start sightseeing tomorrow," he said, more to reassure himself than anything else.
Raitha agreed, setting her things down. Meanwhile, Shyam, still flustered, decided to take a bath—hoping the warm water would calm his racing heart.
To Be Continued...