‘ I’d love this to be the first of many dates. My her’ nan would adore

SAMUEL, 30

VITAL STATISTICS

SINGLE for two years.

CURRENT ROLE

IT analyst.

WOULD LIKE TO MEET

I’M LOOKING for romance with someone who’s bubbly and fun. I avoid secretive women.

DATING PAST?

I meT my first love at 19 and we were together for more than a year, but it didn’t work out. After that, I fell for my best friend but, four years later, that relationship sadly ended, too.

PRE-DATE NERVES?

I SPoke to my dad about the restaurant we were going to and, when he told me how posh it was, I went out and bought a new shirt and jacket. As for nerves, yes there were a few. meeting someone for the first time can be daunting. however, ten minutes into meeting Laura, those feelings had completely gone — she made me feel comfortable.

FIRST IMPRESSIONS?

We greeTed each other with a hug. Laura was wearing a lovely flowery dress which looked beautiful on her. I told her how well it complimented her.

EASY TO TALK TO?

STrAIghT away we talked through the menu. I’d already had a look and politely checked to see if she was a vegetarian. my instincts were correct, but fortunately Laura didn’t mind what I ate, so I went for a chicken dish.

Laura offered me some of her dessert, but she ate it before I had a chance to try it! So I sat and enjoyed my rather boring ice cream and shortbread.

Laura has a lovely personality and I could tell her job is a massive part of her life. She regularly looks after all kinds of animals outside of work hours and sadly deals with a fair bit of tragedy around sick animals. The world would be a better place if there were more people like her.

EMBARRASSING MOMENTS?

I droPPed the menu — that was it.

DID SPARKS FLY?

I WouLd like to think so, yes. I’d like this to be the first of many dates with Laura. We exchanged numbers as we said goodbye.

SEE HER AGAIN?

YeS, Laura is such a special lady. I had a lovely time with her and very much look forward to meeting again. We’ve been exchanging messages.

WHAT DO YOU THINK SHE THOUGHT OF YOU?

I ThInk Laura was surprised by how much I insist on acting the gentleman, and a little taken aback when I offered to carry her heavy bag.

WOULD YOUR FAMILY LIKE HER?

YeS, Laura’s values chime with mine. my family (especially my nan) would adore her. She has such a resilient and kind character.