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Jeneticist: What did you think of the Confession game?

Seeker: It was interesting. I learned a lot about everyone, I think.

Jeneticist: Star has the best ideas. I bet she’s tons of fun in person.

Seeker: I like her well enough. But you’re my favorite. ??

Jeneticist: I am?

Seeker: Have I made a secret of my partiality? I thought it was obvious.

Jeneticist: Wow, you just come right out and say these things. How do I know you’re not saying this to everyone in private chat? ??

Seeker: It’s a matter of trust, I suppose. You can ask them.

Jeneticist: Didn’t you see the silly face? I’m joking.

Seeker: I don’t really understand all the emojis. I’m working on it, though! ??

Jeneticist: That’s a random cactus, isn’t it?

Seeker: Is there ever an appropriate interval to use that one?

Jeneticist: I do it as a distraction. I feel like that’s what you just did.

Seeker: And how long have you felt this way?

Jeneticist: Are you psychoanalyzing me?

Seeker: Not even slightly. I’m just happy to be talking with you. I’ve started to watch my phone a bit, just in case you’re messaging.

Jeneticist: Really? Me too.

Seeker: Is this where I say something clever? Because I’m just waiting for you to realize that you’ve got something better to do.

Jeneticist: Better than getting to know you? Perish the thought.

Seeker: You’re just like the sun. I don’t think you realize how much of a lifeline you’ve become to me.

Seeker: Was that too much?

Jeneticist: No. Not at all.

Jeneticist: Though I’m a little concerned that you’re going through something difficult.

Seeker: Everyone is lonely now and then.

Jeneticist: That’s certainly true.

Seeker: What about you?

Jeneticist: Work has me dealing with people all the time, students and faculty alike. So I enjoy getting some time to myself.

Jeneticist: But…I do miss having someone special, who cares especially for me.

Seeker: I don’t think I’ve ever had that.

Jeneticist: Whoa. That’s what dating sites call a red flag.

Seeker: Why?

Jeneticist: Why haven’t you had a serious relationship before?

Seeker: I was always traveling. This is the longest I’ve ever been settled.

Jeneticist: Do you want to stick around now? Or do you think you’ll always have wanderlust?

Seeker: That’s a difficult question.

Jeneticist: You said before you never fit in anywhere. And that you’re looking for something.

Seeker: Is it strange to say that when I communicate with you, it feels like I’ve found it?

Jeneticist: You’re flirting again.

Seeker: That was simple truth.

Jeneticist: ????

Jeneticist: Be really careful. You might get my hopes up with your sweet talk.

Seeker: Maybe I’m starting to hope for things too.

Jeneticist: I guess we’ll see if there’s a spark when we meet in person.

Seeker: Indeed we will.

Seeker: ?