“What fresh hell is this?” I asked aloud as I approached the entrance to Central Diner. I hadn’t expected to see my name on a large sign in the window. The message asked White Pines citizens to support my upcoming appearance as the bachelor on the gay dating reality television program His Choice. Considering I had just notified the show’s producers earlier that morning that I hadn’t decided whether to sign on, the poster came as quite a shock.

“There he is—the man who’s putting our town on the map,” Simone, a close friend and one of the diner’s servers, announced when I walked through the door. Patrons’ heads turned my way, most smiling broadly as they nodded a greeting.

Although I always tried to be gracious and friendly with others, my grin was forced and my handwave brief. I closed the distance between me and Simone.

“What’s going on?” I asked at a volume only she would hear. “Simone, what’s with the sign? I haven’t committed to the show yet.” I leaned closer to her. “I’m not sure I want to.”

Simone appeared confused. “But your mother was here earlier and told us it was happening. She went from table to table, telling everyone that you signed the deal.”

“I haven’t,” I replied with a heavy sigh.

Simone looked even more baffled. “Huh. Your mom insisted I put that poster in the window.”

I grimaced. “I’m going to kill her.”

Simone grinned. “Be careful not to say that in front of Mitch. He might arrest you for criminal intent.” Mitch Winslow, one of my friends and the town’s chief of police, would probably sympathize and hand me the gun instead. He’d met my mother.

At that moment, Keller Alden, Mitch’s boyfriend and a former student of mine from when I taught high-school English, emerged from the kitchen. Although I was paying for his college tuition in return for him designing and maintaining websites for the clubs I owned, he still worked occasional shifts as a server at the diner. Mitch had begged Keller to quit and focus on his studies, but Keller had too much pride to be, as he shared with me in his own crass words, ‘a dude whose only value is being a great fuck.’ It was important to Keller to contribute financially. Somehow, he was juggling everything successfully.

Keller had had a difficult childhood with no mother and an abusive, alcoholic father. He had been in trouble by associating with the wrong crowd. Understandably, folks in town had been wary of him. That had changed, though, after Keller had testified in court against a corrupt cop, and people had learned of his involvement in ending the town’s persistent burglary issues. Keller’s father had quit drinking, and he attributed his successful abstinence to Keller’s assistance and a desire to make his boy proud. Keller’s work ethic and his committed relationship with the town’s admired chief of police had also altered perceptions. While Keller was still rough around the edges, most saw him as a resilient and decent, caring young man.

“Hey, Mr. Walker,” Keller greeted, oblivious to the raised hand of one of his customers as he walked my way. “Flynt must be happy you agreed to do the show, huh? Are you gonna cut him some of the pay they’ll give you like he asked for?”

I made eye contact with Simone. “Let me modify my earlier statement. There are two people I’m going to murder. I’ll start with that little bugger.” Flynt, fifteen-year-old son of my buddies Adam and Myles Tilson, was the one who had made the television show possible. Without my permission, he had submitted my name to the program’s producers for consideration when they had published a solicitation for their next bachelor. Flynt’s write-up had been intriguing enough for them to contact me.

Simone’s eyes widened. “You’re not touching one hair on that cute little rascal’s head, Cliff Walker!”

“Cute little rascal? He’s a cutthroat, self-serving manipulator who’d sell his soul for a new gaming system,” I countered, though I chuckled at my own description. The boy was a bit sneaky and cynical for his age, but he had a way of ingratiating himself. At times, he could be sweet, sensitive, thoughtful and surprisingly innocent. I had to admit that Simone’s description was far more accurate than mine.

Simone swatted my arm with the dishtowel she was carrying. “Stop slandering the boy. You know, deep down, money wasn’t his main objective. I believe him when he said he was trying to help you meet someone. I read the profile that he wrote about you, then sent to the Diverse Perspectives Channel and posted online. Cliff, Flynt spoke of you like you’re a god. And everything he pointed out was true, so I’m sure he meant every word. Since you helped fundraise for his father’s mayoral campaign, you’ve become a part of his life, and now you’re one of his role models. Even if you had said no to sharing part of your earnings, I think Flynt would do it all over again with the hope of bringing you happiness.”

Now I felt guilty for grousing about him. “I was just kidding. I love the kid, and I’m not mad at him.”

“Good, because if he thought he had done something wrong, he wouldn’t have come clean with you, like he did, before the television producers called you,” Simone reminded me. “He wasn’t mature enough yet to understand what he’d done was overstepping. He truly thought his surprise would make you pleased and excited.”

“I wish I could redo the moment he told me and react better,” I admitted. “I remember how his little smile fell when he saw my expression. He was so worried I was angry with him. I could tell that the poor kid was on the verge of tears. That was why I tried to fix the situation and told him I would consider doing the show if it was offered to me. I never thought it would be. Once it was, I felt obligated to keep an open mind.” I shook my head. “And I did. But the more I think about it, the more I don’t want to be the next gay bachelor. It could turn out badly… not just for me but for the town, too.”

“Really? Everyone I talk to likes the idea,” Keller jumped in.

I frowned. “Well, they’re not realizing I could do something stupid that embarrasses them. I shared that misgiving with my mother. That’s why I can’t believe she did this.”

Keller appeared confused. “Did what?”

Simone turned his way to catch him up. “It was Ms. Walker who told everyone here this morning that Cliff said yes to the show. I only told you he signed the contract because I thought his mom had the inside scoop. It was her idea to put that sign in the window to support Cliff…on his journey to love.” She said the last five words in a humorous, lower register. ‘On his journey to love’ was the oft-repeated catchphrase by the program’s deep-voiced host, Emilio Nunez.

Keller laughed. “That was a pretty good impersonation, Simone. Who else can you do?”

I attempted to return their attention to the issue of my mother. “Try imitating my mom crying as I drive her on her journey…to a nursing home. Preferably one far away. Maybe Hawaii, so there’s a nation of contiguous states and an ocean between us.”

Keller jerked his head back in surprise. “Nursing home? Isn’t she in her fifties? Not that you’d know it to look at her. She could pass for twenty years younger. She is fine.”

I narrowed my eyes. I didn’t appreciate my bi friend describing my mother in a way that sounded sexual. “Watch how you talk about my mother. She is not…fine!”

Simone chuckled. “Do me a favor. Don’t ever protect my honor. You suck at it.”

“Totally,” Keller agreed.

“And you can’t drive to Hawaii,” Simone piled on.

“Must you be so literal?” I asked.

“You would have been quick to correct one of your students,” Keller shot back before grinning. “Speaking of things you suck at.”

“Thank you for the feedback,” I mumbled.

Keller almost seemed apologetic. “Well, I don’t think you’d embarrass yourself on the show, Mr. W. You’re the richest guy in town. You might even be one of the wealthiest in Vermont. And you made all the cash on your own. I gotta believe people would admire that. I’m pretty sure viewers would think you’re hot, too, if the way people in White Pines talk about you is any indication. You wouldn’t believe how many times I’ve heard folks say you look like a superhero character. The good-looking ones, I mean. Not Ugly John, Deadpool or Spawn.”

“Comforting,” I murmured.

“Lots of times, guys with looks and money are total jerks,” Simone said. “Yet everyone knows you aren’t.”

“Since you quit teaching,” Keller added with a chuckle.

I glared at him as I had when he was a student. “I think you’ve already made that point.”

“Sorry,” he replied, casting down his eyes like he used to when I scolded him in class.

“You two have seen the show,” I said. “It’s so cheesy. There’s staged drama, over-the-top personalities, and worst of all…sleazy off-camera hookups. It seems every bachelor they’ve ever had has been a sex addict.”

“Well, Mitch thought you’d be well cast,” Keller responded. His encouraging tone made me think it hadn’t been intended as an insult on the heels of my description of prior bachelors. It did make me wonder what Mitch really thought of me, though.

I returned my gaze to Simone. “Anyway, who said I’m looking for a boyfriend?”

“Flynt. In his submission to the producers,” Keller answered for her with a playful grin. “Everyone read that profile he wrote once he posted it on his Facebook page. Dude, he made you sound desperate for a relationship.” Now it was Keller who imitated someone else, transitioning to a higher pitch. “Mr. Walker really, really, really wants someone to love!”

Simone laughed, then covered her mouth when she realized I wasn’t amused.

“He didn’t write ‘really’ three times! Jeez, is that the pathetic vibe I give off?” I wondered, not sure I wanted to hear the answer.

“Hey! Can I get some service over here?” The patron who had raised his hand earlier to grab Keller’s attention was waving it now. “Does anyone work in this place, or are you all paid to stand around chit-chatting?”

Keller rolled his eyes. “Good old cranky-pants Sampson. I already know he’s going to ask for more salad dressing on the side. He always does.”

“If you already know what he wants every time, why not just bring it to him to begin with?” I asked.

Keller ruffled easily. He always had. His face reddened. “Great idea, Mr. Walker. Thanks for that brilliant advice. Too bad I’m so stupid I never thought of it.” He huffed. “Clem won’t let us bring anything extra unless a customer asks for it. He doesn’t want us to waste food.” Clem owned the diner and managed the staff.

“That’s true,” Simone said in support before turning to her co-worker. “But, sweetie, in the case of Mr. Sampson, just bend the rules and save yourself the headache. If Clem gives you grief about it, I’ll support you. I’m sure he’d rather keep a longtime customer than lose him over a side of salad dressing.”

“Hello? Keller? Am I talking to myself here?” Mr. Sampson yelled.

“Since everyone in town knows Sampson’s delulu, it wouldn’t surprise me,” Keller muttered under his breath before turning the patron’s way with a forced smile. “More dressing, Mr. Sampson?” The man nodded. “I’ll get that for you right away.” Keller returned his gaze to us with a smirk. “Is tomorrow still good to come over so we can review my web design ideas?”

“Sure. And, I’m sorry if you thought I was insulting your intelligence before.” Keller had confessed months earlier that he thought I’d viewed him as a dummy when he had been my student. His impression had stemmed from my misguided belief, at the time, that trading barbs with him could win him over. After learning how he had felt, I’d apologized and assured him that I thought he was very bright. I guessed there were still times, though, that Keller wondered whether I had meant it. “Keller, I’m proud of the grades you’re earning in your college classes. You’re proving me right when I said you’re a smart guy.”

Keller grinned. “Thanks. Can I bring Henry over, too? Mitch needs to go into work tomorrow, and I hate leaving Henry alone.”

Keller had bonded with Henry the cat at a pet shelter before Mitch had adopted him as a surprise gift. He was an unfortunate looking beast—ragged and missing an eye. But he was affectionate, playful, and adored Keller. “Fine. Bring his scratching post, though. It seems to deter him from destroying things.”

“He’s just lulling you into believing that. He’ll find the perfect moment to rip your most expensive upholstery,” Keller replied. His expression was serious, and it made me wonder if he had some surreal insight into cats’ minds. Or worse, he could control their actions to wreak havoc on former teachers who had pissed him off. “See ya tomorrow.”

“Why do I have the feeling Mitch’s new family will put him in an early grave?” I mused out loud once Keller had walked away.

Simone laughed. “Or Keller will keep Mitch young and spry. You know that boy is grit and vinegar on the outside, and all sweet and squishy on the inside.”

“Is he? I’ll take your word for it,” I quipped.

“I don’t think Mitch would be planning a getaway to propose marriage if it weren’t the case,” she replied. The corner of her mouth quirked up a bit.

“He what? Seriously?”

She nodded.

“Does Keller know?”

She rolled her eyes. “No, Mr. Clueless when it comes to romance. Of course he doesn’t. And I’m trusting you to remain quiet about it.”

“You mean like you just did?” I asked. It was hard to picture Keller settling down for good. “Do you think Keller will say yes?”

Simone chuckled. “You and Adam are so alike. Confident on the outside, but self-doubting all the same. Always assuming someone is ready to yank your heart out. Adam made Myles wait too long to hear the words ‘I love you’ because he feared it wouldn’t be returned. Thank God that didn’t blow up on him. You’re the same way. I think there’s a part of you that would rather avoid pursuing someone than be rejected.”

“How did you wander off topic? That didn’t answer my question.”

Simone put her hands on her hips. “Yes, Keller will accept the proposal. My point was, Adam has grown, but you could still learn a thing or two from Mitch. He hasn’t held back with Keller. He hasn’t feared rushing things, and he took the risk of expressing his feelings. That’s what Keller needed—the security of knowing Mitch won’t be another person who walks away or deems him not good enough. Thanks to Mitch, Keller now believes he deserves that love.”

“Of course he does,” I said.

“So do you, Cliff. There’s nothing wrong with being single, but I don’t buy that’s what you want. I’ve watched you when you hang out with me and Ezra, or when we’re together with you and the guys. I know you’re happy for us, but there’s a part of you that looks lonely, too. The problem is there aren’t a ton of available men in White Pines who are into other men. If you want to stay here, and I sure hope you do, then the show would bring potential suitors to you.”

I sighed. “I mean, a relationship might be nice, if it’s the right guy and everything.”

She tilted her head in contemplation. “What’s the harm in trying this out? Stop worrying about how everyone else perceives you, and maybe you’d have fun. If none of the contestants appeals to you, then you’re no worse off than you are now. Starring as the bachelor won’t require you choosing someone.”

“The show is called His Choice,” I reminded her. “I beg to differ.”

“No, your decision could be to pass on everyone. I’ve seen these types of dating reality shows. It’s happened where nobody connects at the end. But that’s your choice, of course.” She giggled. “No pun intended.”

I exhaled in defeat. “If I say no, I’d embarrass my mother after she’s told everyone I’m doing this. Knowing her, that was probably her strategy. I have a strong sense of guilt, and she preys on it.”

“It’s possible,” Simone replied with a shrug. “Listen, if you say no to His Choice, it won’t just be your mom and Flynt who are disappointed. Excitement has been building in town for a while now. Sure, folks think it could bring in business, but they’re invested in you, too. You’re very well-liked, Cliff. But if you really don’t want to do the program, say no. Just be sure you won’t regret turning down a chance at finding love.” She swung the dishtowel over her shoulder. “Break time is over. I need to get back to helping Keller. Grab a seat by the air-conditioning vent where it’s cooler. I’ll come take your order in a minute.”

I found an empty table, sat, and rubbed a hand over my jaw. Despite Simone’s advice, part of me leaned toward signing the contract just to please the people of White Pines. Caring too much about others liking me had always been a weakness of mine. It was what had made me less effective as a teacher, and it was the reason I spent time trying to make others happy instead of myself. I was glad for my friends’ joy, but it reminded me that I was missing what they had, just as Simone had said.

She had also been right that I spent too much time worrying about what could go wrong, and not what might go right. Even a small chance that His Choice would introduce me to a great guy made it worth a shot. If the man turned out to be a nursing home director from Hawaii, all the better.