005 – Back to the Beginning (Part 2)

A week or so after launching, Clancy was reviewing the client applications of those who had filled out the multi-page web form. He was using the site’s back-end that they had quickly thrown together. It was as basic as it gets. Black text on white browser window – none of that alluring design that Kelly the designer they had hired came up with. She had guaranteed that her sensual CSS would bring users one step away from licking their monitors.

They used stock photography too. He and Kelly had spent a few hours looking through Corbis and a few other stock photo sites trying to find images of couples who had both that wholesome everyman vibe as well as looking like they may spontaneously orgasm from happiness at any given moment. Clancy had fun that day – picking out photos. He and Kelly had to sit close on his blue and white striped couch, fighting for control of the mouse button to click on potential pictures on his laptop. Her perfume or shampoo or whatever it was made it pretty hard to concentrate on the computer.

004 – Back to the Beginning (Part 1)

Jude and Clancy were roommates. Friends since college, they had both graduated (or “left college” as the case may be) at the same time. Finding an acceptable post-university job had proven difficult, so they both ended up with more attainable in-university job – just with more time to spend at them.

It had seemed like such a good idea – launching a dating web site. Inspired by the growing need to meet members of the opposite sex, followed closely by the perhaps more urgent need to make some cash. A dating, rather a matchmaking web site was what they came up with.

Problem was, a ton of those kinds of sites already existed. They needed some kind of guarantee. No matter what you were looking for, they would get it for you.

003 – Carter Signs Up

Carter was signing up from work.

He had carefully weighed which would be worse – getting busted by the people he worked with or his roommate Derek. His workmates might rip on him for a little while but eventually his embarrassment at signing up for this dating site – DatesOrMates.com – would be forgotten and replaced with someone else’s gaffe or mistake. Besides, worst case scenario, he could always get another job. Finding another apartment was out of the question.

002 – Chloe Signs Up

Chloe read the website again.

“Guaranteed matchmaking. We’ll hook you up with what you need. Looking for that lifelong soulmate to nuzzle with by the fire. No problem. Can’t remember the last time you got laid, we can help with that too.”

She adjusted the strap of her green tank top. Chloe was intrigued.

001 – The Guarantee

Looking for a date or a mate? We will help you. Guaranteed.

“Too strong?” Jude wondered out loud, staring at his laptop’s screen. The text was huge, at least 36 point, he figured.

“Perfect.” Clancy said. “Just like that.”