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.