She’s so confident I worried she’d think I was immature

DATING PAST?

I NOMINATED myself for this as I wanted to be pushed out of my comfort zone. I’ve just come out of a year-long relationship with someone in her 20s.

even though I’m a hopeless romantic, none of my relationships has lasted longer than two years.

PRE-DATE NERVES?

I WAS quite nervous, as I’m rather shy, but the eight people I live with (in a big warehouse conversion) all thought it was a good thing for me.

FIRST IMPRESSIONS?

My FIrst thought was that sam is very pretty. she looked good in jeans with a white blouse and jacket. she has a fantastic smile, warm eyes and thick, bouncy hair — she reminds me of Holly Willoughby.

EASY TO TALK TO?

I HAD been so worried beforehand that I thought it might be awkward when I got there, but it wasn’t. I dithered over whether to order a prawn cocktail as a starter, but sam reassured me it wasn’t boring.

I liked how positive and encouraging she was. In the end, I was able to open up.

EMBARRASSING MOMENTS?

NONE, thankfully. I did feel shy at times. I’m someone who clams up when they get nervous. sam was great, though, and put me at ease.

DID SPARKS FLY?

SAM isn’t someone I’d think to approach on a night out. My head is usually turned by women who are more immediately outgoing. But we clicked and I’d like to see her again soon.

I did worry that she would think I’m too immature, since she’s quietly confident and sure of herself. And I know my communal living situation is unusual for a man of my age.

WHAT DO YOU THINK SHE THOUGHT OF YOU?

I THINK — hope — sam is into me. It could have gone either way! I’d like to meet up with her again and have texted her already, so I’ll find out soon.

WOULD YOUR FAMILY LIKE HER?

MY FAMILY would definitely like sam. she would get along well with them.