Ready to Go

Jon sat in front of his computer, his stomach full from a salad and diet soda he had eaten earlier. As he stared at the paused game on his screen, he felt a craving, a need that had been gnawing at him since he had finished his meal. He couldn't remember what game he had been playing, but he knew it was immersive and addictive. The curiosity to play it again and fulfill his craving was strong.

He didn't immediately return to his bedroom, instead, he wandered around the house, checking to see if he was alone. Each room he explored was empty, just as he had expected. In his parents' bedroom, he sat on the bed, trying to remember where everyone had gone, but his mind was a blur. He thought that maybe a tactile reminder of his family would help, so he tried on his mother's shoes and his sister's skirts one after another, but they only made him feel more exposed and alone.

When the craving to return to the game had become too overwhelming, he gave up on his exploration and returned to his bedroom. The computer was waiting for him, and he could hear a slight hum coming from the CPU. The red glow of the "PAUSED" letters lit up the room. Jon adjusted himself in his office chair, leaning forward to grab the mouse, and slipped on the VR helmet. With a click of a button, he was ready to begin.