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“If you don’t hear from me by 3 p.m., call the police.” That’s what I texted friends as I headed to a Côte-des-Neiges apartment to be cuddled by a stranger.

When the Montreal Gazette approached me to try new local cuddling business CuddleMe, I was uneasy. The first thing I thought of was a glorified escort service, the next were scenes from the movie Psycho.

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The company’s website states that snuggling relieves stress, promotes relaxation, helps depression and human bonding. That much is likely true. There are numerous studies showing that a tender touch encourages the production of oxytocin — the body’s feel-good hormone. The website also clearly states: “No coitus.” I tried to keep all of this in mind as I walked up five flights of stairs.

I was greeted by founder, Hasnain Mirza, a respiratory therapist, and Staccato, my cuddler, a tall bearded 27-year-old. They were both friendly and eager to explain the concept.