Lost My Number, Can I Have Yours?

[James Neilson]

With final exams approaching, James figured it would probably be a decent idea to get a second pair of eyes on his paper for English. He had stopped to scope out the ads on the notice board at the university, trying to spot an English tutor among the sea of notices. Soon enough, he knew, he’d probably be putting up one of his own; there was an easy potential for a little extra cash while giving him a bit of experience. His plans post-college were still hazy -- better not to leave an opportunity wasted, right?

Lance’s name caught his attention.

He had never caught the guy’s last name, but the ad itself seemed close enough. The guy had been close to his age – apparently a bit older, judging by the ad – and the first name was right. And at the very least, James did have an English class. Even if he didn’t need tutoring in it, what was the harm in having an extra proofreader around?

James pulled out his phone, debating for a brief moment before starting to punch numbers onto the screen. Then he added on a text, smiling to himself as he finally made contact with Curly.

Saw your tutoring ad. Can I get your thoughts on a paper without you blowing out my eardrums this time? –J

And send.

[Lance Anderson]

Admittedly, he should of been out of bed ages ago... but having done his first final, he was more sure he had earned a day away from people. Scratching his bare stomach as he heard his phone vibrate... staying still (just in case the phone knew he was awake) but with the single movement, he knew it was just a text. Exhale of relief as reached to the bedside table.

Reading the unknown number’s text, he blinked a bit to readjust everything. Someone found his tutoring offer... the other half... made no sense at all.

Hey! I reckon I can later today... unsure what you mean on the eardrums thing, care to elaborate? -]

Laying back down, considering this could of just been a prank... again.

[James Neilson]

More often than not, James tended to leave his texts hanging as long as he could. It was usually just his mom or his sister checking in on him, or -- on the rare occasion -- a group-mate for a class checking in on an assignment. Knowing that Lance was due to reply sooner or later, however, James quickly searched around on his bed, tossing blankets aside and finally finding his phone under his pillow.

Exactly who he wanted. Now the question was whether to reveal himself now and risk not running into him again or letting the comment slide until they were face to face. Maybe James prided himself on being polite, but his chances of actually befriending a fellow meta he hadn't known in school were slipping away.

Sorry, dumb joke. Free after 3? Can meet at a cafe or one of my usual haunts? I'm James, by the way.

[Lance Anderson]

Still in bed as he made himself comfortable as the phone vibrated again... it was definitely finals time. Knowing he’d have to put pants on and have a shower so he’d look respectable enough for him to do what he was being asked for. Grabbing the phone again as he spread himself out looking around the floor for clothes before replying.

All good James. Sure, just text me the address and I’ll meet you wherever you feel comfortable -]

Quickly having a shower as he moved back to the bedroom and sat on the bed in his towel, waiting for a location and stuff.

[James Neilson]

He had jumped into the shower and was digging through his closet for something to wear when he remembered that Lance probably would have replied by now, and when he leaned over to check the phone that had been dropped onto the mussed-up sheets of his bed, he was glad to see the flashing light that indicated a new message. James read it over, holding the phone for a long moment as he debated where to meet him.

A quick glance around his recently-cleaned apartment gave him all the answer he needed. At least it'd be quiet there compared to a cafe, and they had a bit more freedom than the library.

714 North Chase St. I'll meet you outside?

[Lance Anderson]

Pulling on jeans as he heard the phone go off. He looked at it and pulled out a shirt from his draws. The time and such he’d should leave the place now. Pulling all his mess together as he looked at his phone one last time.

Alright, see you in about ten. -]

Leaving the place with his keys in hand for the slight drive ahead.