This was taught by a wiry, silver-haired man named Julio, who had been a professional wingman in Vegas before finding enlightenment.

Our homework: approach a man under thirty-five in the wild. Not to date. Just to converse.

"Rule one," Simone said, pacing. "The cougar does not hunt. She basks. The cub comes to the warmth."

He looked up. His eyes were warm, curious. "Yeah? What got you?"