Another First Date

Another first date. How many times could I possibly tell another human being what my favorite color was? Not too many more, I tell you. I was running out of patience with the opposite sex. How hard was it to be consistent and enjoyable? It wasn’t hard for me to do, but it seemed like it was impossible to find a partner who could. I had begun to accept that my soul mate may just be money, and I was okay with that. I had a great job, even better group of friends and a passion for life that kept me grounded. No matter how many dates or text exchanges I engaged in, I was usually unlucky in the love department. My best friend, Jaxson, was convinced I was not destined to be alone.

“Just hear me out, Alex. This guy is a perfect fit for you,” my BFF persisted. I gave him an annoyed look before rolling my eyes. “Can’t we just stay in and eat sushi tomorrow night?” I begged. Shaking his head, “Nope. You have to go out and meet new people sometimes.” I thought about continuing to argue, but I knew Jaxson wasn’t trying to hear it. Plus, I really didn’t have much of an argument. He was right, but I wasn’t willing to admit it. I had become comfortable with my “singleness”; I just didn’t understand why my bestie couldn’t accept it.

I thought of a million excuses to get out of my date the next night. Sitting on my couch with Netflix and popcorn was the perfect Friday night for me. After work, I went home and talked myself into getting dressed for the blind date I desperately wanted to avoid.

I decided on a simple black dress with my new pink sweater. I put on my black, open-toed heels before doing another quick glance in my full length mirror. My hair was pulled up into tight curls; all I needed was a little make-up and eyeliner before I headed out the door.

I pulled up to the restaurant, Bright Cellars, five minutes before eight o’clock. I had already heard great things about this wine cellar/restaurant. It was the main reason I hadn’t cancelled the date. If the date was unpleasant, at least there would be wine to make things better.

“Alex?” A tall, handsome man asked, looking in my direction. I smiled, “Yes, that’s me. Andrew?” He offered his right hand, and I shook it. I was impressed, but tried not to show it because I didn’t want to seem too eager. He flashed a beautiful, pearly-white smile along with two deep dimples. I was already in love and picking out our firstborn’s name. I almost missed out on my blessing wanting to stay home with Netflix and popcorn.

“Yes. It is a pleasure to meet you. Let me check in on our reservation,” my future husband said. I nodded in agreement before he walked over to the hostess. He was a gentleman, tall, handsome and so far…pleasant. Even if the rest of the date went south, I was okay with how it was starting off.

We were seated a few moments later in the far, right corner of the restaurant near a window. The ambiance was sensual, soothing and sweet. The soft jazz playing in the background relaxed me, putting my mind at ease. Normally, my mind was all over the place on a first date. However, tonight, I was enjoying myself and loving every moment.

Andrew reached across the table, touching my hand gently. “Are you enjoying yourself so far?” he asked. I smiled, “Absolutely.” I was smiling so hard, my jaw was beginning to hurt. I didn’t care because this was the best date I had been on in the last five years.

Our waitress came back with two glasses and a bottle of wine. “Here you go. Enjoy,” she said as she dashed off to place our food order. “I know you probably thought I was weird when I kept asking you if you preferred chocolate or if you liked strawberries. The reason for all of my questions was so I would know what kind of wine you would like,” Andrew explained. He grabbed the bottle of wine in front of us, “Based off of your interests, the questionnaire said you would enjoy this Merlot; it’s called Jetbird.” He poured both of us a glass; impressing me with each drop.

I took a sip and savored the wine. Hints of strawberries, cherries, raspberries and baking spices teased my palate. “That questionnaire was spot on. This is really good,” I complimented. He smiled, “Mission accomplished.” I contemplated asking for Andrew’s hand in marriage, but I thought it may be too forward.

Our waitress came back with our appetizer. We talked and enjoyed our Buffalo wings and potato skins. “Is it too soon to ask you out again?” Andrew asked with sincerity. “You had me at Jetbird!” I answered.