Swynlake&#x27;s Got Mail

Left at Town Hall for @milkshakerugby with an attached note that reads:

Saving a dance for you at the reveal ball. I’ll be the one in green Versace xx

Affectionately yours,

RuinedPrada

#gifts #ruinedprada

Milkshakebumblebee

hello, milkshakerugby,

You saying that makes me think you have quite an impressive name or distinct look about you and i have to say i've just grown more curious about you as the messages go on<3

Im also not really shy, so i'll admit this is probably close to how i'd be in real life too.

So i take it you appreciate when people are open and honest with you? Are you a fan of emotional vulnerability or are you just a very succinct and to the point kind of person?

I might just have to do that haha<3 hard to refuse milkshake encouraging a milkshake 😆

all the best<3

gossamerbumblebee

@milkshakerugby

Greetings gossamerbumblebee,

Oh what an interesting question! I would say the latter. It's not so much that I want people to be honest, but more so that I appreciate them not having a guard up. I've been friends with many timid people and sometimes it takes a bit to coax them out of their little turtle shells of protection and even talk about their interests and dreams.

I don't necessarily want people coming up to me, crying about their broken hearts. There is a time and space for emotional vulnerability, but I keep those moments for a very select group of trusted individuals in my life.

But I enjoy it when people can hold a conversation. It doesn't even have to be about themselves. The weather! A new television show! A beloved teacher! Anything that's not just deflecting, you know?

And yourself? Do you consider yourself an emotionally vulnerable person? I feel I hold my cards close to my chest most of the time, but I can hold a marvelous conversation. The tricky part is finding a worthy partner.

Yours most ardently,

milkshakerugby

@gossamerbumblebee

#gossamerbumblebee

Fresh flowers in a Pride & Prejudice vase left for @ruinedprada

xoxo - milkshakerugby

#milkshakeprada #gifts

To: ruinedprada :: milkshakeprada

Dearest Darcy,

You have no idea how much it pleases me to be considered one of your more interesting matches. Call me selfish, I'll be very inclined to agree with you.

I wonder what the point of them deciding to do this was if all they were going to do was deflect. Even if you are more introverted, you can't accomplish anything by keeping all your cards to your chest. To expect you to carry the whole conversation. You are better than me, I would have told them goodbye very early on.

My matches have been... interesting is one way you could put it. I have two that won't amount to anything. I'm certain we will be parting ways soon. The others are fun to converse with but I'm not sure that anything will come from those. I do have another person that appreciates fashion so that is always very nice. Then there's one who is so timid its a little infuriating. They asked if we could be friends because they need more confident people around them.

What am I supposed to do with that? I can't just give confidence away like it's money or something.

affectionately yours,

RuinedPrada

#milkshakeprada #ship:miss Elizabeth and her mr darcy #amazing 10/10 no notes

Greetings darling Elizabeth,

It sounds like you've got quite the grab bag here. I will say, one of my most fulfilling relationships is with someone who was very much in need of more confident people in their life when we met. Now, they've blossomed into quite the fearsome specimen.

However, I absolutely understand your hesitance -- it's not like you are a charity, after all! With my friend, there was always something interesting lurking below their surface that needed to be coaxed out. But if they're giving you absolutely nothing... well, there are people who are better worth your time.

Like me, for instance. ;)

This is all to say, I did tell that boring one that we should part ways! Huzzah! I'll toast to that. What are we drinking tonight, dear Elizabeth?

Yours most ardently,

milkshakerugby

@ruinedprada

Milkshakebumblebee

Hi milkshake!

I love your enthusiasm and the way you write, there’s so much personality to it!

I have to agree that I’m also looking for people to connect with in whatever way that manifests. I’ve been feeling a little lonely in my own personal life and I just felt like this would be a good way to fix that.

I hope I’ll be the former as well, I’d hate to come across boring in a letter when I especially know I am not a boring person in person.

What do you think the most fun part of the anonymity is? I feel like it makes some people nervous so I’m curious what makes it even more fun for you!

Sincerely,

Gossamerbumblebee

@milkshakerugby

(Ps your username really makes me want a milkshake lol)

Greetings gossamerbumblebee,

Hmm, well I feel like I often strike a very distinct first impression, so I'm always curious as to how I appear without the trappings of my name and my physical appearance. I am not shy in the slightest, so I like to believe my words here are exactly what I would say in real life.

That being said, I'm more intrigued by the other person. I feel like there are loads of people out there more comfortable behind a screen and therefore actually let their personalities shine. Saves me the effort of trying to coax it out of them!

Are you a fan of anonymity?

Also, do yourself a favor and do get a nice milkshake.

Yours most ardently,

milkshakerugby

@gossamerbumblebee

#Milkshakebumblebee

Dear milkshakerugby,

Oof. Ouch. Lol.

I thought I was talking about myself? But if we're not clicking then, that's fine. I suppose it is just difficult for me because if I talk about my work, then it'll give me away. Work is basically my life.

Which...fair enough.

Up to you.

storyacoustic

#i am so sorry ................#acousticrugby

Tata for now!

[milkshakerugby has ghosted storyacoustic]

Milkshakebumblebee

dear milkshakerugby,

hello! Im so excited to get to know you!

Was there anything in particular that drew you to this sort of event when it comes to meeting someone?

💕gossamerbumblebee

@milkshakerugby

Greetings gossamerbumblebee,

Well, hello my little buzzing friend! A wonderful question -- I suppose I am just looking for interesting people to spend time with, in whatever way that might manifest. The anonymity adds an extra level of fun.

I've connected with some wonderful people, though I've also met some dreadfully boring ones so far. I do hope that you will be the former.

And what about you? A similar thought process, perhaps?

Yours most ardently,

milkshakerugby

@gossamerbumblebee

#gossamerbumblebee

swynlake-gotmail

milkshakerugby and Ruinedprada have me giggling and kicking my feet! Calling each other Mr Darcy and Miss Elizabeth? Get out of here you fashionistas

@milkshakerugby @ruinedprada

#<3

To: ruinedprada :: milkshakeprada

My dear Mr. Darcy,

I believe we have definitely gotten off on a better foot than Mr. Darcy and Miss Elizabeth. I do not loathe you at all. In fact, dare I say, I am rather fond of our conversations so far. Also I do hate to say it but you are stuck with that nickname for now. It cannot be helped.

I think cliff diving was my favorite activity out of the two. I had a wonderful person show me the ropes on a trip a few years ago.

I would love to say that I am looking for true love but I simply do not believe that is something that can be found in something like this. New connections, romantic or sexual, absolutely. But as such, I’m not sure I’m ready to settle down. There’s still so much to do and experience. Casual is nice for now and does leave the door open for something more meaningful. So it would seem we are on the same page there.

Have your other matches been as fortuitous as ours?

Affectionately yours,

RuinedPrada

Greetings darling Elizabeth,

That is very excellent to hear. And I am now even more excited to continue our correspondence.

I must say, you are probably one of my more interesting email partners. I've got one who every time I try to ask about, completely deflects and says they've got nothing interesting going on in their life. And really, as much as I adore talking about myself, there's only so much I can reveal before deciding it is simply not worth it!

I have a few others that seem promising, however -- though one revealed that their favorite pair of shoes is an old, beaten pair that they've had for a very long time and I am sure you sympathize with me when I say that I was shocked for a moment.

I was also... deliciously intrigued? Like gawking at a car accident, I suppose.

And what about you? I shan't be offended if you have some other stimulating conversations. In fact, I hope you're faring much better than me.

Yours most ardently,

milkshakerugby @ruinedprada

#milkshakeprada

Dear milkshake rugby,

Maybe I am a little reserved, yeah. I don't mind a good event but I am not in the center of the dance floor, necessarily. Kind of a blend in with the crowd sort of person. I don't mind the spotlight, just not really the kind of person that seeks it out.

Does that make any sense?

Where was the last unique place you went? Would that be giving too much away? I've always wanted to travel more but never really had the opportunity. I do like listening to podcasts about traveling or things that happen in other parts of the world.

storyacoustic

@milkshakerugby

Greetings storyacoustic,

I visited the Boiling Isles briefly on invitation. I've gone before, but it's interesting now during the reconstruction.

This is all to say, I feel I've talked endlessly about myself and while I do love to do that, I feel like I know nothing about you besides the fact you keep insisting you are fundamentally average. And honestly, that isn't very much incentive to keep talking.

So -- give me something interesting about yourself! Literally anything to keep me writing. Otherwise, I think it's best if we conclude this correspondence.

Milkshakerugby

@storyacoustic

#acousticrugby

To: Teenytansy :: teenyrugby

teenytansy

Hello Milkshake Rugby,

I am thrilled haha! This experience has been very exciting, if not a bit overwhelming. I've never done anything like this before so I am hoping to make a good impression!

I am intrigued--what do you mean by strange? Coffee and dinner indeed seems like the usual tradition, but my experience with dating is sparse, so I'm unsure what would constitute as "strange". Perhaps it is less odd than you're thinking?

I have also recently watched rugby! I am not very knowledgeable on sports, but have taken the time to sit down and learn more. I still don't fully understand how the game is played, but I would be happy to learn! I don't believe I've had a milkshake, though. Where would be a good place to get one?

I will admit, I am on the shorter side. While tansies are not my favorite flower, they are one I enjoy. Overall, I chose this username because I enjoy the alliteration and wordplay while wanting to remain authentic. Embarrassingly, I may have put too much thought into this.

Sincerely,

Teeny Tansy

@milkshakerugby

Greetings Teeny Tansy,

Oh, when I mean strange I moreso mean... off the beaten path. I would like to be invited to an immersive theater show, for instance, or a hidden speakeasy accessible only by solving a complicated puzzle. Or perhaps a masked party where one can only speak in code. Or browsing antiques stores. That seems a more simple variation of what I mean.

Never had a milkshake? My goodness, you are missing out! The milkshakes at Chippamunka's are divine. I recommend.

I do not believe that there is such thing as putting "too" much thought into something! It shows you care.

Now, my teeny friend: what do you like to do outside of emailing anonymous people?

Yours most ardently,

milkshakerugby

@teenytansy

#teenyrugby

baffledbadger

my dearest, || milkshakesbadger

baffledbadger

My Dearest, @milkshakerugby

I do hope this electronic letter finds you in good health and gentle moments, I find myself laid upon mine settee and thinking fondly on the world for setting our paths together.

I'm really really happy to match with you! This is going to be an adventure!

If we are going to start with the prompt, I suppose I'll say My Perfect First Date would be a starry night spent laid upon some pillows and blankets outside while we have food and drinks and talk about life. I think the easiest food for that would be either something we each packed or maybe some Imperial City!

What do you think?

Faithfully Yours, BaffledBadger

#my dearest #milkshakesbadger

Greetings Baffledbadger,

Well, hello! I must say I am most pleasantly surprised to find someone equally as eloquent and verbose in my inbox. Let's have a toast to that, then!

A starry night connection sounds most lovely. As I've said to a few people so far, I am incredibly open-minded to what a first date might be. Honestly, the more eclectic, the better. Really gives me an insight into the sort of person I might be connecting with.

And I won't say no to a good takeaway.

I think attending some sort of exhibit, show, or live music event, and then proceeding for light bites or drinks would be ideal. That way, we've experienced something together and can use that as a talking point. I find sometimes reserved people who are hesitant to talk about themselves can be coaxed to converse a bit more if the topic is on an interesting thing they've just seen.

Anyway, my dear Badger -- are you a well-read individual? I assume so given your great grasp of the English language.

Yours most ardently,

milkshakerugby

@baffledbadger

Dear milkshakerugby,

Wow, have you traveled to all of those places? Do you like to travel?

I haven't traveled much, if I am honest. So, I probably couldn't say for sure if I have a favorite city. I like London. Lived there for a bit. I'm from a smaller city, though I won't say, just in case.

That's about all. London was nice with all the diversity. Could get some of my favorite foods there very authentically which is a plus.

Do you enjoy partying then?

storyacoustic

Greetings storyacoustic,

I do love to travel, yes. I've been to all sorts of strange and exciting places... though a bit less at this stage in my life, due to some obligations that keep me in Swynlake. But my work takes me abroad every so often and it's always a treat.

London is lovely. Not my favorite city, but it's absolutely worth a visit.

I do enjoy partying -- fancy galas, nights out at clubs, small intimate soirees. I love to be around people and indulge in libations. Though, obligations at my current phase in life prevent me from indulging too much. I certainly "partied" more in my youth.

And yourself? You strike me as more of a reserved soul, but perhaps I am just reading too much into your restrained prose.

Yours most ardently,

milkshakerugby

@storyacoustic

#acousticrugby

To: ruinedprada :: milkshakeprada

Oh Milkshake, I may just have to start calling you Mr. Darcy.

Versace is timeless and so very elegant. I would love to be adored by Donatella. Dior is such a good choice as well. Both create such timeless pieces of art.

I would say my favorite right now is Chanel. The textures used and the silhouettes that are created are just so very interesting. Then there is also Valentino. The newest collection is such a look for spring, I can't wait to get my hands on it.

I do have my eyes on a few newer designers that are starting to make a name for themselves, as well. As wonderful as the classics are there is nothing wrong with new ideas either.

As for hobbies, I will try anything once. I like trying everything an area has to offer. Be it sky diving or cliff jumping or just walking through the streets. There's beauty in everything if you can find it.

Though I will never turn down an art exhibit.

Affectionately yours,

RuinedPrada

@milkshakerugby

Greetings Prada,

I absolutely do not object to any sort of Austen comparison, though I hope we've gotten off on a better foot than dear Mr. Darcy and Miss Elizabeth.

That is an admirable approach to hobbies! I agree -- haven't gotten a chance to sky dive or cliff jump at this point in my life, but I like to think if the opportunity presented itself, I would take it.

So tell me, dear Prada: what brings you to this little email event? Looking for true love? Or simply hoping to meet some new people?

I will be upfront: I am not necessarily looking for a serious commitment out of this, merely to meet new, like-minded people. And should a romantic or sexual connection spark, well, I am most certainly open to it! However, regardless, I am aiming to keep said relationships casual for many reasons including some current obligations in my life.

I ask, because it seems we are kindred spirits and I would hate to disappoint you if you sought a more meaningful romantic connection.

Yours most ardently,

milkshakerugby

@ruinedprada

#milkshakeprada

subtlesage

Hello Milkshakerugby,

I can’t fault you for going out of the box. In fact, I quite enjoy that kind of spontaneity. Unfortunately, my answer isn’t as fun as yours. I’d say my favorite shoes are some brown leather loafers I’ve had for some time. They’re one of the few pairs I have and I’ve gotten them fixed up a few times now. They just fit right.

Turning a new question back to you, since we’re doing our own thing against the grain, what are your thoughts on animals and pets? Do you have any? Love them, hate them? I’ve got one and I think animals can tell the truth behind a person better than we can. What do you think?

Looking forward to continuing our conversation,

SubtleSage

Greetings SubtleSage,

I will refrain from asking just how old those shoes are lest I immediately abandon this conversation... I jest! Mostly.

As for animals... I don't currently have pets, nor have I... well, ever, actually! Someone in my family has been absolutely begging for one, but I'm still on the fence about whether or not we should make that decision. I don't have anything against animals; I just suppose since I did not grow up with them, I don't feel particularly attached to them.

Oh, I did have a cat living with me at one point, but that was an unusual circumstance. I didn't really have to take care of him.

Some of my closest friends have animals very dear to them, however. I appreciate their bond. But I suppose I will have to see if it is for me!

You sound very close to your companion animal in question. Have you always had pets?

Yours most ardently,

milkshakerugby

@subtlesage

#sagemilkshake

To: ruinedprada :: milkshakeprada

Oh hello,

My Prada is most definitely not ruined. At least not currently. There was a mishap a few years ago with a certain airline and let me tell you now, it was not pretty.

Just from your message I am glad that you have entered my inbox. People who know their fashion are people I enjoy immensely. I do adore my Prada. They are my go to when I need a new bag, though there are quite a few pieces from their Spring collection that I simply must have.

You are better than me. I have been known to have quite the... temper when it comes to people not knowing the difference between their Versace and Valentino.

But now I must know, who is your favorite designer? Which brand calls to you the most?

Affectionately yours,

RuinedPrada

@milkshakerugby

Greetings Prada,

How divine it is to find a kindred spirit! I would say my favorite designers at the current moment in time are Dior and Versace. Nothing compares to Dior embroidering and tailoring. The attention to detail is absolutely stunning.

And Versace... well, what can I say? Luxury, opulence, fearless self-expression, sensuality. What can't they do?

And yourself? Besides Prada, of course ;)

And have you got any other hobbies? I enjoy reading and admiring art, though I'm not so much of an artist myself. I also love shopping, but that was pretty obvious, I suppose.

Yours most ardently (and I mean it),

milkshakerugby

#milkshakeprada

Dear milkshakerugby,

I am not an outdoor person, not really. I don't mind a walk outside, obviously. I don't go hiking. I wouldn't be opposed to it, I guess, it just never was really something I got into. City boy at heart.

The lake holds some pleasant memories though, so I am looking forward to when the weather warms up.

I guess...I do love a park in the middle of a busy city. Like Regent's Park in London. Or Central Park in NYC, though I have never actually been there. Just a disclaimer. It is just nice to have a bit of nature in the middle of the city.

What about you? It sounds like you're a nature person. :)

storyacoustic