Page 4 of (Not Really) Faking It With My Best Friend's Brother

"A blind date?" His eyebrows shot up in surprise. "How does that work?"

"You match based on personality questionnaires and chat with an avatar instead of photos. You don't see what the person actually looks like until you meet up." I paused, feeling a little bit vulnerable sharing such deep thoughts, but continued rambling on despite my unease. “When I first saw the advertisement for the app, I was skeptical that it could lead anywhere meaningful, I mean, not even seeing the person first? It seemed crazy."

Ethan took a sip of his tea, leaning back in his chair. "Yeah, I can see how it would feel risky. But who knows, maybe that's the genius of it, just cutting through all those superficial factors."

"Exactly," I said. "The more I thought about it, the more the concept grew on me. Without photos, you're just focused on personality and common interests. It becomes more about making a real connection. I figured it was worth a shot. Maybe I could ease back into the dating world."

Ethan's expression softened with understanding. "Hey, no judgment here. I think it's great you're putting yourself out there. Did you match with anyone promising?"

"There was one woman whose avatar stood out - 'Boundless Bookworm.'" I smiled slightly, thinking back to our initial chat. "I have to say, when we started messaging, it just...flowed. We have very similar senses of humor, and she's so well-read and insightful."

Ethan nodded. "Those are the things that matter most in the long run. I mean, don't get me wrong, physical attraction is important too." He smirked. "But it sure helps when you enjoy talking to the person."

"No doubt about that," I laughed. "I guess I'm trying to keep an open mind. Even if Bookworm and I don't hit it off romantically, maybe we could at least be friends."

“So, what’s next for you and ‘Boundless Bookworm’?” Ethan gave me a kissy face and raised his eyebrows up and down.

"We're meeting this Saturday at Rosewood Cafe on Main Street, the one with the great lattes and comfortable chairs," I said. "I figured a relaxed setting might help calm the first date jitters."

Ethan nodded approvingly. "Good call. And they have amazing chocolate croissants."

"Right?" I said with a laugh. "Here's hoping the food provides a good icebreaker if the conversation falters."

I paused, tracing my finger around the rim of my cup. "I'd be lying if I said I wasn't nervous, though. We seem like we have a lot in common, but what if we have zero chemistry in person? Or what if she takes one look at me and wants to make a run for it?"

"Hey, give yourself some credit," Ethan said gently. "You're a great catch - smart, funny, thoughtful. She'd be lucky to get to know the real Nate."

I felt a swell of gratitude for his vote of confidence. "Thanks, man. I really needed to hear that. I know everyone thinks things just come easily for me. In high school, everyone saw me as the hot jock all the ladies wanted. But there is more to me than this awesome physique.” I made my arms into muscles, trying to lighten the mood. I wasn’t used to talking about my emotions.

Ethan laughed and lifted his cup again. "Here's to keeping an open mind and to Boundless Bookworm seeing beyond the hunky, most eligible bachelor in Rivermint Cove to the soft romantic side of Nate Reynolds.”

I clinked my coffee against his tea and shook my head. "You know, I think this is the most I've opened up to you about my dating life, like ever."

Ethan chuckled. "What can I say, I'm honored you trust me enough to talk blind date prep.” He glanced at his watch and sighed. "Duty calls. But keep me posted on how it goes, okay? I'm rooting for you."

We bussed our trays and headed out. As I watched Ethan walk away, his advice still echoed in my ears. I felt excited about the blind date. A feeling I hadn’t felt in a long time.

Taking a deep breath, I let a smile tug at the corners of my mouth. I knew I had to find a balance between work and my personal life – but it wasn't easy when lives were at stake every day. However, this date seemed like a promising step towards finding that equilibrium.

"Dr. Reynolds, we need you in Room 312," a nurse called out, pulling me back into the present moment. I nodded and followed her down the hallway, my mind alternating between thoughts of my patients and the coffee date that awaited me.

"Tell me what's going on." My voice was steady as we entered the room. The nurse briefed me on the patient's condition, and I listened intently, considering the best course of action while my heart raced with excitement.

As I examined the patient, my thoughts couldn't help but drift to Boundless Bookworm. What kind of person was she? Would we have an instant connection, or would it take time to develop? I was intrigued, and I found myself anticipating our date even more.

"Dr. Reynolds?" The nurse's voice pulled me back, and I glanced up, realizing I'd been lost in thought. "Do you think we should consult with Dr. Maddison on this case?" she asked.

"Good idea." I tried to shake off my daydreams. "Let's get her input before making any decisions."

Throughout the day, my thoughts kept returning to the upcoming date, each time filling me with a mixture of excitement and nerves. As I reviewed patient files and consulted with colleagues, I found myself wondering if Boundless Bookworm would understand the demands of my profession – or if she even shared my passion for helping others.

My phone rang, and I looked down to see ‘World’s Number One Sister’ scrolling across the screen. It made me laugh. Emily, my younger sister, had snuck my phone and put that as her contact information.

I hit the answer button. “Hello.”

"Hey, Nate!" Emily's voice echoed through the phone full of energy. "How's your day going?"

"Busy," I admitted, smiling at her concern. "But I'm managing."

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