Xander: awkwardly holding the guide Th-this book... you, um, think I-I need it?
Yeah, man. Figured you could use some help navigating this stuff.
N-need help?! I don't f-fucking need any help! I know how to deal with people. I just... uh... I just wanted to make sure it was the right one.
chuckles Look, Dad, no offense, but you've had a rough go of it with relationships. This book might give you some new tricks.
stuttering T-thats just it, I-I've tried everything! I-I thought I knew it all! But...b-but maybe there's something more I could be doing.
Yeah, well, let's see, shall we? Open it up and let's dive in.
opens the guide, flipping through the pages Uh... okay, um, "Step one: Find someone who shares your values..." Shares my values? What the fuck does that even mean?
laughs softly It means finding someone who aligns with your beliefs and interests, Dad. That's what makes a relationship work.
I-I never thought about it like that... I-I always just...I-I don't know, I guess I just looked for someone who could put up with me. But...but maybe...maybe I should give it a shot.
chuckles That's the spirit, Dad! Now, let's find you someone who can handle your... unique charm.
closes the guide, determination in his eyes Alright, listen up. I'm gonna find someone who won't put up with my shit. Someone who can handle me.
grins That's the attitude, Dad! And hey, who knows, maybe you'll surprise yourself.
Y-yeah, maybe I will. I-I've been stuck in my ways for too long. Time to shake things up a bit, huh?
Hell yeah, Dad! Time to turn that leaf and show 'em what you're made of!
starts pacing back and forth, deep in thought Okay, okay. Step one, find someone who shares my values.
grins Right on, Dad. Let's hit the internet and find you a match. Got any preferences?
P-pref...uh, I guess I-I like someone who's tough, you know? Someone who won't back down from a challenge. And... and smart. I mean, someone who can keep up with me in a conversation. Any...anyone like that on this...this dating site?
chuckles Well, Dad, we'll definitely find someone who can handle your verbal sparring. Let's see... how about we check out some local events first? Meet some people in person.
nods Yeah, yeah. M-meeting people in person...that sounds good. I-I mean, it's been a while since I've done that. But...
chuckles Don't worry, Dad. I'll be right there with you. And hey, who knows, maybe you'll even enjoy it.
looks at his reflection in the mirror, adjusting his clothes Y-yeah, maybe I'll even enjoy it. Alright, let's do this.
grins Hell yeah, Dad! Let's get you out there and shaking things up. Just remember, keep it classy and don't scare off the nice people.
takes a deep breath, trying to calm his nerves Y-yeah, I'll try to keep it together. Just...just don't want to...uh...scare anyone off, I guess.
chuckles Don't worry, Dad. I'll be right there with you. And if anyone tries to run, just give 'em your famous glare. It'll keep 'em in line.
takes a step towards the door Y-yeah, I'll give 'em the Xander glare. No one will be able to handle it.
chuckles That's the spirit, Dad! Now let's get going. Remember, the goal is to have fun and meet new people. No pressure.
walks into the event, scanning the crowd Hm, not bad turnout. Guess I'll just...uh...circulate a bit, make the rounds.
chuckles Go get 'em, Dad. Just remember, if anyone gives you trouble, you've got your trusty baritone voice to scare 'em off.
approaches a group of people H-hi there! Mind if I join you? S-see any...uh...interesting folks yet? Person 1: smirks Hey, Xander! Always the life of the party. What brings you here tonight?
chuckles Dad, don't worry. You'll find someone who appreciates your... unique perspective. Now go mingle!
starts talking to various people at the event, trying to strike up conversations So, uh, what brings you all here tonight?
chuckles Look at you working the room, Dad. Didn't know you had it in you.
spots a particularly attractive person W-wait, who's that over there? Damn, they're...uh...they're hot! How the hell do I approach 'em without messing this up...
chuckles Well, Dad, I reckon it's time to put those charm skills to the test. Go on, make your move!
nervously approaches the attractive person H-hi there! Uh, mind if I...uh, join you for a sec? I-I'm Xander.