episode 1 – compatibilitiesA romantic couple with a common interest in big dippers meets through an online dating site. However, their definitions of what that means do not align.
A romantic couple with a common interest in big dippers meets through an online dating site. However, their definitions of what that means do not align.
Tale of Two Dippers
AS an avid astronomer, Meecham travels beyond borders for the perfect glimpse of the constellations and then photographs them. Some of his breathtaking images have been published in books and online.
Meecham is on an astronomy trip with his local club. They set up their telescopes at the top of a hill, far away from the city’s light pollution. Meecham has always been fascinated with the Big Dipper asterism, and tonight he is determined to observe it. He spends the first hour adjusting his telescope, aligning it with the North Star, and fine-tuning the focus.
Once his telescope is ready, Meecham starts to scan the night sky. While stargazing, tiny lights twinkle like glistening diamonds on a black velvet cloth. The Milky Way stretches above him like a river of light. He locates the Big Dipper and focuses on it, awestruck by the beauty of the seven bright stars that form the Dipper’s shape.
The women he has met do not share his passion for something light years away. They want Meecham to focus on the captivating heavenly body sitting across the table from him.
Julie is fond of the outdoors, submerging herself in an exhilarating body of cool water against her skin, beneath the vast number of stars. She has mapped out secluded ponds within the forest, hidden from prying eyes. There, she can become one with nature without any judgment.
The trees are tall and majestic, and the air is filled with the sweet scent of pine. While swimming, she looks up at the twinkling stars, like tiny, enchanting fairy lights. The moon is almost full, casting a silvery glow on the water. It is a dreamy backdrop with whom she has no one to share.
Something in Common
After years of failed attempts, Meecham types up a charming online dating profile, wherein he extols his affinity for the Big Dipper. Before long, Julie Childs, who is not a fan of cooking, replies with similar interest. The two skip online chatting and arrange a blind date at a local coffee shop. Both are so excited that they only hear what they want.
On a cold patio, Meecham dunks churros in a hot beverage and asks, “Can we schedule a date to see the Big Dipper?”
Assuming it’s a euphemism, Julie reacts, “Well, I guess so, if you’re ready so soon.”
He asserts, “Of course, I’m ready. It’s what we have in common. Do you have a favorite campground, or should I suggest one?”
She offers, “Let me choose an area. I love remote bodies of water.”
Impressed by her offer, Meecham inquires, “Tonight there will be a great meteor shower with the Big Dipper. Should we plan on camping overnight or just view and leave?”
With a furrowed brow, she objects, “You make it sound a bit crude. We should linger while bathing in the afterglow.”
He concurs, “I agree. I have camping gear and a camera.”
Shocked by his comment, she asks, “Oh, you’re going to take pictures?”
“Of course. It’s the only way to document the adventure.”
While relaxing her defenses, she responds, “Perhaps I’ve been a bit prudish. Everything only stays up for so long during our lifetime. We might as well enjoy it in its prime, as long as nothing salacious ends up on social media.”
He agrees, “Exactly.”
Adventure to Remember
With confirmation of coordinates, they load up a jeep and head to the scenic, remote area of Julie’s choosing as the sun sets. It casts a romantic amber glow over the treetops.
While setting up their tents, she asks, “Would you prefer to begin before or after dark?”
Meecham insists, “The darker the better, in my opinion.”
Julie disagrees, “It’s going to get colder, and you wanted to snap some photos of us, right?”
Meecham slaps his head with the reply, “Of course. Let me get my camera gear.”
“We can both get prepared in our tents,” she suggests. “Then I’ll meet you in the pond.”
He acknowledges. “That sounds like a good plan.”
“I’ll try not to gawk.”
“I can’t promise I won’t. It’s no use trying to hide my favorable reaction.”
The camera equipment with a tripod, telescoping lens attachments, and a light meter takes a while to gather. So when Meecham exits his tent, Julie is already gone. He hurries to the pond. That’s when he catches sight of the surprise.
Julie is descending into the water to skinny dip. “Come on in. It’s brisk but refreshing.”
Meecham nearly dropping his equipment, stutters…. “You’re nah-naked?”
Continued…
Scope: These terms apply across the platform, not per-story. Viewing and evaluation are allowed. Express agreement required for downloading, redistribution, adaptation, or production. Use of this material for generative training or republication in any format without authorization is prohibited. Any relation to actual persons or events is coincidental. About 1700 total words.
Return twice weekly for new episodes. Login provides the most immersive experience. Audio may include sound effects that alter reading time. Cinematic materials are accessible with ClinicalNovellas Cinematic membership.
