“No one in person.”
“What are you waiting for?”
I gave him a you-know-why look.
“If you don’t get out there, you’ll never know what it’s like to date freely.”
His words stuck with me all the way to the hotel, while I got ready for bed, and the next morning. He was right; I needed to just make the jump. What was the worst that could happen? I knew I would have to get the person to sign the Non-Disclosure Agreement, so at least I had something protecting me until I was fully ready to come out. Plus, it wasn’t as if I would be making out with the dude in public where people could see and snap pictures.
Grabbing my phone, I took a deep breath and opened the dating app. I sent another message to Looking4Luv.
StickWhisperer95: I have tomorrow afternoon free. Want to meet for coffee?
10
COOP
Looking4Luv sentme a message while we were in the air on the way back to Boston.
Looking4Luv12: I’d love to. It was my Friday today so it works out perfectly. Where do you want to meet?
StickWhisperer95: How about you pick? You mentioned you enjoy a good cup of coffee. Any particular place?
Looking4Luv12: There’s this little café near where I live. Their mochas are delicious
StickWhisperer95: Sounds good. Drop me a pin. How about 3?
Looking4Luv12: Awesome. How will I know it’s you?
Since he seemed to follow the Bruins, or at least hinted at knowing the players, I had no doubt he’d know as soon as he saw me.
StickerWhisperer95: I’m sure you’ll figure it out. But just in case, how will I recognize you?
Looking4Luv12: I’ll wear a red scarf. Does that work?
StickWhisperer95: Sure. I’ll see you at 3
Once the plane landed, we got onto the bus that would take us to the arena where everyone had left their vehicles.
“Yo, Coop,” Butcher said from the seat across the aisle from me. “Want to grab a beer before you head home?”
“Sorry, Butch. I got a date.”
It seemed like all of my teammates mocked me playfully with their “oohs”.
“All right. Fuck off. You all act like it’s my first time.” It was my first time meeting a stranger, but not my first time on a date. The thought of going on a date with someone brought Ford to mind, but I shook it off.
“We’re teasing, Cap, but good luck.” Butcher squeezed my shoulder.
“Thanks.”
“Did you meet him on The Click?” Nyström asked as he turned in his seat to face me.
“I did.”
“Do you need us to go with you to make sure you don’t get kidnapped?” Sexton teased from behind me. Seemed everyone was standing and asking questions as we waited for the bus to start driving.
“Do you think I’d let someone kidnap me?” I chuckled.
