If he’d wanted to kiss me, I wouldn’t have minded
DATING PAST
I’ve had three long- term relationships of between three and five years. The last one ended in September 2019 and I briefly dated someone before lockdown. It’s hard to meet people through friends as most of mine have settled down, so I’ve tried online dating, but that’s a minefield.
PRE-DATE NERVES?
Of COURSE! I started getting butterflies days before the date. My friends could tell I was nervous, so helped me choose the right outfit. I wore black shorts with a lacy top.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS?
SIMON was running late, but he did let me know beforehand which I appreciated. We had both taken a taxi to the restaurant in the centre of Leeds. He chose The Ivy, but wanted to make sure I approved of his choice, which was thoughtful of him. He was polite.
EASY TO TALK TO?
We BOTH like to keep active and go to the gym. Simon goes indoor climbing, which I’d like to try. He is about to become an uncle and, as I have nieces and a nephew, we talked about that. He’d moved back up north to be near family, which is important to us both.
EMBARRASSING MOMENTS?
THERE were two awkward silences — but each time one of us jumped in to fill it. I was talking quite a bit more than Simon. I’m not sure if that was because he is quieter than me, or I was not letting him get a word in.
DID SPARKS FLY?
SIMON is handsome, but most importantly he smiles a lot and it’s an attractive smile. A few times I looked at him and found myself thinking, ‘you are a good looking lad’. He asked for my number and suggested a coffee.
DID YOU KISS?
NO — BUT if he had wanted to kiss me I don’t think I would have minded! As it was a Sunday, we went our separate ways after dinner, but if it had been a friday or a Saturday we’d have probably gone on for a drink.
WHAT DO YOU THINK HE THOUGHT OF YOU?
SIMON waited for me to get my taxi and he texted to make sure I got home. but I’m not sure our connection is strong enough. Dating is tough. There are times I just want a guy to knock on my door and say, ‘I’m your perfect man, let’s live happily ever after.’
WOULD YOUR FAMILY LIKE HIM?
My Mum would love Simon because he’s so gentlemanly and polite.