Holiday Healing (On Hold)

Chapter 1

Dedicated to Kim (KanyeInterruptedMe) because her books make me feel so many emotions, and I felt the same feeling when re-reading this chapter and it was perfect.

Original: 12/22/2016

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Healing Snuggles

We offer non-judgmental, platonic, healing cuddling. Let us match you up with a trained "cuddle buddy" that will cuddle with you to provide that healing touch.

Studies have shown that the healing power of touch can help relieve stress, anxiety, depression, and much more.

Our "cuddle buddies" take courses and workshops that provide them with the skills necessary to offer the healing power of touch. Read testimonials from other clients about their fantastic experiences snuggling with one of our "cuddle buddies."

"I don't like how they refer to 'cuddle buddies' in quotation marks. It makes it seem shady," Sveta commented after she read the description of "Healing Snuggles."

"Oh you're just being nit-picky. They're extremely reputable, and the founder is a psychologist," Marie responded, unconcerned.

"That doesn't make it any less shady. Also, just because it's supposed to be non-sexual and 'platonic' doesn't mean this 'cuddle buddy' wouldn't try something," Sveta continued.

"Tia, I'm sure they screen these people or do a background check or something. If you're that worried, just get a female cuddle buddy. And stop saying 'cuddle buddy' with air-quotes."

"Like women can't be lesbians and lesbians can't try something."

"Just try it. You can even call me afterwards as a check or something if you want. You can even pick your buddy and see their profile and a picture. What's the worst that could happen?" Sveta didn't respond. "Come on, let's look for someone!" Marie exclaimed excitedly.

...

"What about him?" Marie asked. They had been looking through profiles for hours with no luck.

"He doesn't even have his last name listed. How shady is that?"

Marie sighed. "Tia, you've rejected half of these guys, with some terrible reasons. I mean really? His mustache made him look 'too creepy?' Give one of them a chance."

"For $80 an hour, I want someone that will make me comfortable. Not creeped out," Sveta argued.

"I already told you I'd pay for it. It's my Christmas gift to you. Now just pick someone. Please."

Sveta sighed and continued scrolling through names until she came upon an unusual one. "What about this one?" she pointed out the name to Marie.

"Antonio Giordano? Did you just pick him because he has the same last name as the pizza chain?" Marie accused.

"Hey, I like pizza!" Sveta defended. "Besides, he looks relatively normal, he's based in Chicago, and his profile doesn't scream 'I'm a creep and I like to kidnap girls.'"

"How can he kidnap you if he'll be in your apartment?" Marie continued before Sveta could respond, "but if you like him, that's great. Book him for at least 2 hours tomorrow evening and we can be done."