Hold My Tear, I’m Getting My Wife Back!

Austin made a spur-of-the-moment decision to visit.

His aunt, who had married a local, just had surgery so he decided to pay her a visit.

Although the county wasn't as bustling as Stonebridge, its scenic beauty was unmatched. Planning a brief escape, Austin and his buddy Frank decided on a road trip, as last-minute tickets were elusive. Upon his arrival, his aunt immediately broached the subject of his love life.

Over thirty and still single, Austin had become the family project, with relatives frequently attempting to set him up. Austin played along, though hardly with enthusiasm. After a few meetings, potential matches often backed out, citing lack of chemistry or differing personalities.

His mom had called ahead, so his aunt, ever the matchmaker, claimed to know just the person.

"She's in the same line of work as you, and she's back home for the holidays. I bet you two would have plenty to talk about."

Austin was exasperated. "I came to see you, not to go on an arranged date."

But his aunt insisted, "Oh, come on, give it a shot. Joy's a hoot. Last time we played cards together, I laughed so hard my cheeks hurt."

"Her name's Joy, huh?" Austin remembered that Joy was from around here.

He went, of course, not expecting such an unconventional blind date experience.

Joy had shared her ticket hunt fiasco on social media, eliciting teasing from friends.

a train ticket for her: "See how much I

air

wondering why my social media smelled worse,

banter successfully vented Joy's

up, cleared her throat, and answered with the professionalism of a customer service

employee," Austin replied. "I'm heading back today. Need

"Yes, please!"

downstairs in

out of

put thin

putting

in

frenzy and

novel.net

to recover some

at the wheel, Joy stayed in the passenger

humor, but Austin seemed genuinely amused

him a break, Joy offered to drive. "Have some rest. I'm a good driver,