Page 59 of The Sasquatch and the Hairdresser

“Are you okay?” Hal asks, a clear note of worry in his voice.

“Just on edge.” I point to my mouth. “This helps but I don’t like not knowing what’s on the other side of that portal and whether it plans to join us.” I lift my beer bottle in the air. “At least I’ve got an improvised weapon in case all hell—no pun intended—breaks loose. I’ll keep you safe, babe.”

Hal’s giving me heart eyes now. “My dashing hero.”

“For you? Fuck yeah.”

He’s already mine, so it’s only fair.

Hal’s answering smile is so bright it nearly blinds me.

“As Ryder would say, you’re being totally swoonalicious right now.”

“Maybe I’m a natural at this romance stuff,” I say, my voice gruff.

His bottom lip trembles. “I’m so happy right now.” He pauses. “Even with a gate to the Demon Realm maybe threatening our town.”

I’m pretty damn happy too.

And this date is definitely one we won’t forget.

Our little moment is interrupted when Astraea goes on high alert.

“I sense something coming.” Her eyes glow that freaky opalescent color. “Step back, everyone.”

We follow her command without question. None of us are stupid.

I grab Hal’s hand with my free one and squeeze it.

The portal crackles with energy and we all hold our breath.

For a second, nothing happens.

I bite down on the last bit of my lozenge, my crunching the only sound in the room.

Then something furry and fanged comes flying into the bar and straight at⁠—

Me and Hal.

CHAPTER FOURTEEN

Cryptids United in Delightful Dating and Love Encouragement (CUDDLE) Forum

SuperShySasquatch: Hit me with your best ideas for respectful romantic gestures, everyone.

IPutTheBrahInChupacabra: Our sweet sasquatch is too precious for words.

YetiOrNotHereICome: You could write him something romantic, like a poem.

LoungeSingerLizardMan: Better yet, you could serenade him with a love song. It’s gone well for me. Let me know if you need some suggestions.

MerMagicMan: Flowers and chocolates are pretty old school but still work as a way to show you care.

NessieNeedsLoveToo: You could get him a meaningful gift. Something special that would have sentimental value to him. It could be something tied to his job or a big dream he has.

SuperShySasquatch: Thanks, friends. I think I know where to start!

Hal