Reclaimed Assurance

We're never so vulnerable than when we trust someone - but paradoxically, if we cannot trust, neither can we find love or joy.Walter Anderson

"Madison, are you searching for a friend?"

Madison swings around and glares at Brody, shaking his hand away. "Mr. McGuire, how dare you to assume I'm that type of woman." She quickly turns and almost runs to the exit.

"Madison, wait," Brody says, trying to catch up to her. Madison pretends not to hear and keeps walking quickly. As she gets to her car and opens her door, the warm, muscular hand is placed on top of hers. A tingling sensation runs up her arm, momentarily confusing her, and she jerks her hand away.

"Madison, please wait and let me explain," Brody says, sounding earnest.

"Then, start explaining because I don't have all night," she demands.

Brody backs up, giving Madison space. "I was supposed to meet a woman here tonight at 7:00. I met her on a dating app. She goes by the name Looking for a Friend. Since my date and yours didn't show, I wondered if you might be her."

"Oh, my gosh! Are you Lonesome Guy from Knoxville?"

Brody grins from ear to ear. "I am, so can we start tonight over?" Madison smiles. "Hi! I'm Brody McGuire, AKA Lonesome Guy from Knoxville." He reaches his hand out to her.

"Hello, Brody. I'm Madison Donaldson, AKA Searching for a Friend. It's nice to meet you," she shakes his hand.

"Shall we have dinner now?" Madison nods. Brody offers his arm to her, and they walk back into the restaurant together. The tingling sensation happens again, confusing Madison even more.