“That’s not an answer,” Dex says.
Mason stares at him. “It is. Take it.”
Eli writes AVAILABLE and draws a little flame.
Gregory clears his throat. “I am emotionally available, but I prefer a slow build with mutual respect and clear communication.”
Dex looks like he’s physically fighting the urge to scream.
Someone behind me whispers, “He’s going to propose to the wall.”
Gregory’s ears go slightly red. “I would not propose without consent.”
Dex points at him like he’s presenting him to the crowd. “Ladies and gentlemen, the safest man in America.”
Gregory nods. “Safety is statistically correlated with relationship satisfaction.”
Dex rubs his face. “Stop saying statistically or I’m going to start drinking.”
He swivels to me. “Captain.”
I shrug. “Emotionally available.”
It’s simple. True. Unembarrassing.
The room goes quiet again, just for a second.
Then Dex throws both hands up. “EMOTIONALLY NUDE!”
I blink. “That’s not what…”
“It’s exactly what,” Dex says, scandalized. “You can’t just say that like it’s normal. Like you’re ordering a coffee.”
“It's normal,” Gabriel says from across the room, calm as ever.
Dex swings his head to Gabriel. “Do NOT encourage him.”
Gabriel smiles. “I’m encouraging the truth.”
“Truth is overrated,” Dex mutters.
Mason’s mouth twitches. “You’re the one running the questions.”
“Because you animals need structure,” Dex says.
Coach checks his watch. “Last one,” he warns.
Dex straightens like he’s closing a case in court. “Alright, Captain. Final question.”
He points his phone at me like a microphone.
“What happens if you don’t get picked?”
I don’t hesitate.
“Honestly?” I say. “Relief.”
Laughter cracks through the room.
