I have the same name as his ex. Who wants to be the ‘second Luca’?

DATING PAST?

MY Most recent relationship lasted for five years and ended five years ago. I haven’t been on a date for a long time as I’m quite picky, and the pandemic hasn’t helped.

Dating apps aren’t great, as most men lie, and lots of married men use them, too. that’s why I applied — I’m hoping I’ll meet the man of my dreams, but even if we end up as friends I’ll see that as a bonus.

PRE-DATE NERVES?

Yes, I wasn’t feeling myself before the date, even though I’ve been on a blind date before.

FIRST IMPRESSIONS?

I arrived five minutes early as I was so nervous, but it gave me a chance to calm down. Luke seemed nervous, too, but I could tell that he’s nice, and he is good-looking.

EASY TO TALK TO?

Yes, we talked about Luke’s obsession with dinosaurs. He plays with them with one of his younger cousins, which I found endearing. He also talked about his work, and is clearly ambitious.

We live fairly close to one another — Luke lives in Brighton and I live near tunbridge Wells — and we’re keen bike riders, so we tentatively arranged to go on a bike ride.

Luke has a Mini convertible and I did quiz him on how he’d get our bikes in his car. I don’t think he’d thought it through properly.

EMBARRASSING MOMENTS?

of course. I was nervous so asked Luke whether I was talking too fast — apparently I wasn’t.

DID SPARKS FLY?

I think so. But while Luke is attractive, he might be too shy for me. also, I don’t think he is over his ex — ten months isn’t long. His ex is also called Luca. Who wants to be known as the second Luca?

SEE HIM AGAIN?

Yes, on a friend level. But for me, to fall for someone the personality has to be there. as the date progressed, I felt I did most of the talking.

WHAT DO YOU THINK HE THOUGHT OF YOU?

Probably that I’m outgoing, friendly and interesting. Was I too full-on though? Luke gave me his number and I texted him to say thanks for a great date, but I haven’t heard back yet.

WOULD YOUR FRIENDS LIKE HIM?

Yes, they’d all fancy Luke! I sent them his picture and they all agreed that he is cute.