Tourist season at Lake Wallenpaupack means a break in the monotony of Alexi’s life. They’ve been secretly advertising the ice cream parlor they work at through the Foodspotting app, hoping that will bring even more customers. One such customer is Eli, a recent addition to the area with a bright and open disposition that Alexi is drawn to immediately. And since Eli is demisexual, Alexi welcomes him into their friend group of other queer twenty-somethings.<br><br>The more Alexi gets to know Eli, the more smitten they are. If only they didn’t have crippling self-esteem issues, problems at home with their dad, and enough emotional baggage to fill a freight train. They’re desperate to get out of that rut so they can have space in their heart for someone like Eli. After years of playing a passive role, making the first steps towards change might prove too much for them.

#IceCreamSundae

“Hey Hannah,” they called out. They got up out of their chair. “Why don’t you come sit down? I’ll take your order and get it for you in a minute, okay?”


“Oh, Alexi, is that you? Dear me, are you on your break? You don’t have to stop on my account.” Hannah walked over to them regardless, led around the other tables and chairs by the ever-dedicated Ambrose. “I’ll gladly have a seat though.”


Eli gave Alexi a puzzled look, but Alexi gestured to him that they knew what they were doing. “If you don’t mind company, a friend of mine is also sitting here. His name is Eli. He’s a sound artist for films, and he’s working on some independent projects right now. Have you heard about ASMR?”


“I have,” Hannah said. She felt for the back of the chair. Alexi scooted it an inch over for her to grab. “Thank you. Yes, I’ve heardofit, but I can’t say I’ve listened to any.”


Chapter 23