One blurry night in Oxford, Ohio Kelsey, heading home from Side Bar, mistook a dark, heavy wooden door for her apartment. Upon entering she realized she had stumbled upon O'Pub. "Meh, at least they have a bathroom" she thought to herself.

She scanned the patrons in the dimly lit hideout until her gaze swept behind the bar, to a "total stud" (Kelsey's words) masterfully pouring libations of Guiness and Rumpleminz. Too shy to make a move, and currently dating someone else, she bided her time. She returned to O'Pub occasionally to gaze at the barman from afar and enjoy a fancy beverage at the least-cool college bar in the college town.

Over the next few years they remained friends of friends. Kelsey poured herself into her studies. CJ poured... drinks. When she graduated (barely) Kelsey began her career as an elementary school teacher in nearby Middletown. Kelsey would then go on to get her Master's degree (barely).

In 2018, on a lunch-date with friends, Kelsey stepped through the doors of the esteemed Bourbon's Craft Kitchen (known the city over for their delectable hot dogs, and impeccable service). She couldn't help but feel a strange familiarity in the air. It was a comfort she couldn't place, but had yearned for since her days wandering the streets of Oxford. The bartender! It's him!

Kelsey couldn't believe her luck. This time, she thought to herself, I will be brave. After some encouraging words from her friends, she took a deep breath, gathered her courage, and walked up to the bar. "CJ?", she asked, "Is that you?"

CJ and Kelsey exchanged pleasantries and contact information, promising to see each other again soon.

The next time Kelsey ventured into Bourbon's, CJ was gone.

"Skipped town" said one patron, "fired for incompetence" said another. "I heard he's running with the bulls!" Kelsey's heart dropped. They'd missed their chance.

Or so she thought...

Registry