Alright, so when I called United last night, the fellow I talked to didn't seem to know much and when I demanded a transfer, I got disconnected (I don't know if it was intentional or not.)
So, I called back today to talk to United again, and today I was told that it was a glitch, and that 1338 (I posted 1388 yesterday, but it was actually 1338) was the actual price. So, they are apparently gonna fix things and the price for my tix should be 1338, not 1957. The woman I talked to said if it doesn't get fixed to call back and they'll book it for me at the cheaper price.
I'm glad they're going to give me the cheaper price (1338 is very good, imo, and I'm gonna jump on it ASAP). However, I also searched Hotwire too, and all the flights (from United and other airlines) are more money per tix when purchasing one vs. three. So, I'm unclear if this is actually a glitch, or just a shady tactic that they are going to give me an exception on due to my complaining (I threatened to report them to the Better Business Bureau for discriminatory practices). Time will tell what is really happening.
Anyway, solo travelers, please be vigilant. Double check your tix prices with the airline/hotwire/expedia/
ABD to make sure you are getting lowest price. And check to see if this discriminatory practice is being applied to you or not. If it is, fight it. Hold your ground. A seat is a seat and you shouldn't pay more because you are by yourself.