Page 67 of The Sasquatch and the Hairdresser

This is a big new insight Dr. P will be happy to hear about.

“You’re just like a plant that needed some TLC to blossom beautifully once more.”

I swallow hard. “Well, if anyone deserves credit for most of that TLC, it’s you.”

Hal waves his hands, looking all kinds of flustered. “Oh, no. I can’t possibly take credit. Mystic Hollow has a powerful effect on people. Lots of folks who came here have been healed by this special place.”

It’s more than the damn town, I’m sure of that. But Hal handles compliments about as gracefully as I do. I’ll just have to work on showing him my appreciation for all he’s done for me in the most boyfriendliest way I can.

I clear my throat. “So… uh… what’s on the docket today?”

“We have a festival planning committee meeting in a bit. Can you still join us this afternoon?”

Now this is something I’m seriously excited about. “I wouldn’t miss it for the world.”

Step One of Operation Being a Good Boyfriend: Help Hal and the others make this year’s festival unforgettable.

CHAPTER SIXTEEN

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

SuperShySasquatch: Any tips on kissing? I don’t have much experience, but I really want to kiss my boyfriend. How soon is too soon?

YetiOrNotHereICome: In my experience, it’s all about the right mood. Set the tone. Look deep into each other’s eyes. Move in for a lip-lock when you get the subtle go-ahead from your partner.

LoungeSingerLizardMan: If you’re keeping it old-fashioned, don’t bring in the tongue too soon. Work your way up to that.

MerMagicMan: What are you talking about? Tongue is the best part!

NessieNeedsLoveToo: I think that might be beyond @SuperShySasquatch right now. He needs time to level up.

SuperShySasquatch: I’d like to start out in the PG range, if that helps.

IPutTheBrahInChupacabra: Then you need to build the anticipation, man. I agree with @YetiOrNotHereICome. Set the mood. In your case, make it super romantic. Keep the kissing slow and gentle to start and see what you both think.

SuperShySasquatch: I think I need to work on my technique first. Is a pillow still a go-to option?

Hal

After Skylar goes down to the salon for the morning, I call Ryder and ask him to come over to talk. I need to update my bestie on all that’s happened recently.

And get his advice on how to go about kissing my boyfriend.

Around ten, Ryder shows up, auburn hair messy and clothes rumpled.

“Morning, Hal,” he says, blinking blearily. “Your call woke me up, so I need a cup of your strongest coffee, please. I was up late writing last night, so I’m still in my morning zombie mode.”

I chuckle and seat him at the breakfast nook in the kitchen while I pour him a cup of coffee. “Ah, yes, I remember zombie mode all too well. Quadruple shot latte coming right up.”

Elvira, who’d been taking a nap upstairs, pads into the room and makes a beeline for Ryder. My friend’s mouth drops open.

“Am I still dreaming?”

Elvira starts pawing at him, demanding pets.

He scratches her chins and her three tongues loll out as she grins with obvious pleasure.

Ryder lifts his head and gives me an inquisitor’s sharp gaze. “What in the everloving fuck happened and why do you now have a baby hellhound?”