I bought roses for our Zoom date. It’s corny, but I got to keep them!

DATING PAST?

FOR the past couple of years I’ve been working in Sierra Leone teaching English. I returned to the UK before lockdown, and now I’m thinking about dating for the first time in ages. I’ve had one serious relationship in the past.

PRE-DATE NERVES?

I WAS excited. I liked the prospect of meeting someone in this way.

FIRST IMPRESSIONS?

THERE were a couple of technical glitches, but that was good because it meant I got to see andrew before he saw me. although he seemed nice, I wasn’t physically attracted to him at first glance. I prefer tall, dark, handsome guys who are a bit rough around the edges.

I’d bought roses for andrew. My sister thought it was corny but I thought it was a win-win — a nice gesture and I got to keep them. I think he found it odd but sweet.

EASY TO TALK TO?

I FEAR I led the conversation — I’m possibly more outgoing — but loved it when andrew showed me his artwork, including a painting of The addams Family. Fortunately I didn’t have to pretend it was good, it’s clear he’s talented.

EMBARRASSING MOMENTS?

I DIDN’T plan on eating on camera as I thought it might feel odd. But andrew chose to dig in and I was glad, as that made me do so too. I had a vitamin C drink while he enjoyed a bottle of wine. I think we balanced each other out.

DID SPARKS FLY?

WE WERE both very polite, so it was a bit formal and felt like a job interview at times. I realised early on that andrew wasn’t someone to whom I was romantically attracted, but it was really nice to spend time getting to know each other.

WOULD YOU LIKE TO MEET IN PERSON?

AS FRIENDS. I have so much respect for andrew as he left a career he didn’t enjoy to pursue his passion for illustration. I asked if he wanted to exchange numbers and we have been in touch since.

WHAT DO YOU THINK HE THOUGHT OF YOU?

HOPEFULLY that I’m funny. he might think I talked too much; if there were any awkward pauses, I jumped straight in. I don’t know if he was interested in me.

WOULD YOUR FAMILY LIKE HIM?

THEY’D be surprised because he isn’t my usual type, but they’d like him. There is nothing to dislike.