I R L — Joshua Mendrala

In this short story by "Gifted" author Joshua Mendrala, we are introduced to Caleb Pnokk, the acclaimed author of the best fantasy books of the 21st century. When he goes through the turmoil of killing off one of his most loved characters, he never expected her to magically arrive in his life. In Real Life. Slowly, Caleb falls in love with Gabriella, his character, in two ways. He learns to love her the way a husband loves a wife. But he learns another way as well: The way a creator loves his creation. And with a twist of free will, Caleb is swept off his feet in more ways than one.