Aaron was the one who was married, who wanted to be discreet. Brice was the one who was new to town, who wanted to make friends. Chris was the one who posted photos of his chest and arms, never his face. Doug was the one who posted photos of everyone, of his brother, niece, cat. Eric was the one who taught at the community college—I’m afraid I’ll see a student. Felipe was the one who took night classes—I think I saw my professor!

Gabe was the one who tapped me, said he liked my profile: “Asian. Top.” Harry was the one who blocked me, said he didn’t believe it. Ian was the one who was into brown guys—It’s just a preference. Jason was the one who wasn’t—It’s just a preference. Kyle was the one who sent photos of his dick, unsolicited. Luke was the other one who sent photos of his dick, unsolicited.

Marco was the one who desired to be choked, bitten. Nile was the one who preferred to be spooned, held. Oscar was the one who hoped to find a husband. Paul was the one who planned to leave his. Qian was the one who appreciated my message—You’re the first to reply. Rex was the one who demanded more—Come on. I see you’re online.

Sanjay was the one who was from the area, who wanted to leave. Ty was the one who was from afar, who wished he never left. Uri was the one who lived a neighborhood over: “1 mile away.” Vince was the one who lived in my building: “45 feet.” Will was the one who insisted on meeting—I’ll come to your place. Xavier was the one who insisted too—So I can learn more about you.

Yassir was the one who asked for my name—Your real one. Zac was the one, the name I gave, convinced this was just a game, a charade, not how I connected, felt alive, each night, in bed, blue-lit, with my phone.