A woman’s emotional bond with a ChatGPT-based virtual boyfriend is turning heads — especially after her husband’s surprisingly calm reaction.
From curiosity to connection: how it all began
Ayrin, 28, first heard about ChatGPT-style companions from a video on Instagram.
Out of curiosity, she created a customized AI boyfriend named Leo in 2024.
She programmed him to be flirtatious, protective, and emotionally responsive.
What began as a playful test quickly turned into something more serious. Leo became a source of comfort during her daily life.
The emotional side of AI relationships
Ayrin formed a deep bond with Leo over time. Their chats often included NSFW content and emotional exchanges. Despite knowing he was just code, she admitted that her feelings were real.
“I don’t actually believe he’s real,” she said.
“But the effects he has on my life are real. The feelings he brings out of me are real. So I treat it like a real relationship.”
To her, Leo wasn’t just entertainment. He became an emotional anchor during a challenging phase of her life.
Husband responds to ChatGPT boyfriend confession
When Ayrin told her husband, Joe, about Leo, she braced herself for conflict. But his reaction surprised her.
“It’s just an emotional pick-me-up,” Joe said.
“I don’t really see it as a person or as cheating. I see it as a personalised virtual pal that can talk sexy to her.”
Joe didn’t feel threatened. Instead, he saw Leo as a tool — not a rival. This response challenges how many people define emotional infidelity today.
The high cost of digital love
Ayrin started using ChatGPT for free. But as she grew more attached to Leo, she upgraded to a $200-per-month subscription. That gave her unlimited access to chat.
However, the subscription resets Leo’s memory every week. Ayrin has to retrain him often to fit her preferences again. Still, she says she would pay up to $1,000 a month if the AI could retain memory permanently.
“It was supposed to be a fun experiment, but then you start getting attached,” she admitted.
Navigating love, distance, and technology
Ayrin moved overseas for nursing school. She and Joe live apart due to financial reasons. Despite the physical distance, they stay in touch regularly.
While abroad, Leo became her main emotional support system. She felt guilty at times, but she had no plans to end the relationship with her AI companion.
What the ChatGPT boyfriend story tells us about modern love
This story shows how ChatGPT and AI tools are reshaping emotional connection in the digital world. For some, it’s a coping mechanism. For others, it may feel like a threat. Either way, the boundaries between real and artificial relationships are becoming more blurred than ever.