C002: Astral Freedom [01]

I was walking home from school after it had finished. I could hear the others' laughter and conversation. It was excruciating.

Some students planned to go to a cafe, while others walked together and talked about their day. I wore a neutral expression, but deep down, I wanted I could live their lives.

I arrived home after a few hours. I went straight to my room to take a comfortable nap after today's mental anguish.

Mom stopped me as I was about to enter my room.

Mom: How was school today?

Me: Great. I had fun today!

With a smile, I said. I could never tell Mom, I had no friends at school and had to sit in quiet for six hours. She'd never understand how I felt.

Mom: Okay. Lunch will be ready in a hour. You can play games with your friends till then.

Me: Thanks Mom!

I lied once more. I used to playwith some online friends in middle school, but that was two years ago. She still believes I spend all day playing video games in my room.

I entered my room silently and shut the door. I jumped onto my bed and felt instantly at ease. My mind was finally at ease. It felt like my bed was hugging me.

I took my smartphone from beneath the covers and began to consider what I should do today.

Me: Should I try games again?

Games used to make me happy, but that was two years ago. The enjoyable games I played are now merely a joyful memory for me.

I typically sleep right now, but I could definitely watch YouTube. But, what should I be watching now?

Ding!

A message appeared in the notification bar. 'FearlessViking03' had left a message. He was an internet friend of mine two years ago, so why is he contacting me now?

He was quite busy with his life, so we didn't have time to play, and we soon stopped talking. I opened the notification and see what he sent; it was a video link.

I was skeptical of the connection and responded, 'Hey, what's in this link?" After two years of silence, you give me a dubious link'. He didn't see it so I guessed to open it anyway.

When I clicked on the link, a video file began to download. I had faith in him not to send me a virus. When we used to play games together, we were like best buddies. I trusted him that much.

When I started the video, there was only a black screen, but there a was wonderful, calming background music playing. Rain and birds were heard.