As a member of the gym, they’d rather us get towed than to inform us that they’re revoking privileges we pay for. Also, the front desk attendant is rude and heck. Place needs some professionalism.

Missed Connection: You gave my heart a whipper I was belaying my friend when I noticed you ascending the wall with the slow confidence of someone who knows exactly what they’re doing—to the route and to the people watching. Your back step was… persuasive. That crimp was so small it should’ve been illegal—but the way you held it, slow and steady, like you knew exactly how much pressure it could take… I’m pretty sure half the gym forgot how to breathe. Your friend called you "Jim". If this was you (medium chalk aura, suspiciously strong calves, possible name Jim), just know: the person awkwardly holding the belay device and pretending not to stare would like to share a chalk bag with you. Anyway, cool sets on the ropes, but the bouldering is more competition style and not my bag.