WOLF: That’s what you’re looking for on this app? Kind and caring? Wouldn’t it be better to go meet someone at like, church?
BEAR: There’s nothing wrong with meeting someone at church, but I’m looking for someone who isn’t afraid to try new things. This app? It’s very new for me.
WOLF: Me too.
I’m surprised at my own honesty.
I’m not usually the type of person who admits right away that I’m new at something or that I’m out of my element. After all, the entire reason people love bartenders is that we’re so very confident in what we’re doing.
We’re happy and at ease.
We make people feel comfortable in ways other people don’t. That’s why someone can walk into a bar, order a drink, and immediately start telling their life story. Bartenders make great therapists.
At least, we like to think that we do.
Against my better judgment, perhaps, I keep talking to the Bear. Maybe I shouldn’t. Once we get going, I learn a lot about him. He likes hiking and running. Of course, he does. He’s a bear. He also likes painting, though, and he spends a lot of his free time working on artistic projects.
That surprises me a little.
A guy who isn’t afraid to be a little bit sensitive?
That’s kind of nice, actually.
After awhile, I realize that the sun i
s coming up, and I should probably get some sleep.
Wolf: It’s late.
Bear: I think you mean it’s early.
Wolf: The sun is coming up.
Bear: And I’m so happy I got to spend the whole night talking to you.
A shiver of excitement rushes through me.
I liked it, too.
Oh, I liked it so much more than I should have, I think. Talking to this guy gave me a total thrill. It was wonderful. It was really nice to be around someone who makes me feel like I’m important. Besides, because there were no pictures exchanged, I can tell that he likes me based on who I am and not what I look like.
But there is a burning curiosity in me to know more about him, so I take a deep breath, and I shoot my shot.
Wolf: I’d love to do it again.
Wolf: In person.
Bear: Name the place.
Wolf: Do you know the clearing to the south of town where the waterfall is?
Bear: I’m sure I can find it.
Wolf: 8PM?
Bear: It’s a date.
Wolf: Remember that you have to come in your animal form. That’s the deal.