I was surprised he ordered a glass of fizz for lunch!
JEAN, 63 VITAL STATISTICS
DIVORCED, two sons, 33 and 31.
CURRENT ROLE
RETIRED local government officer.
WOULD LIKE TO MEET
A NICE gentleman who is self-sufficient.
DATING PAST?
I marrIed in 1980 and we divorced 1993. Since then, I’ve had one relationship, but I’ve been single for the past ten years. recently I realised I’m rather too comfortable on my own and need to liven things up. When I told one of my son’s partners about the date, she laughed.
PRE-DATE NERVES?
even though I hesitated about applying, I like to step out of my comfort zone. I was terribly nervous beforehand, but as my close friend reminded me, at least it’s a nice meal with someone new.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS?
I arrIved on time and Khalid was already at the restaurant. He struck me as a kindly gentleman. He was wearing a smart suit with an open-neck shirt, which I liked.
Khalid had already ordered himself a glass of champagne, which I thought was fun, but surprising, for lunchtime. Then I reminded myself we were on a date in a lovely London restaurant, so why not? He asked me if I’d like one too, but I ordered a blackberryflavoured gin and tonic instead.
EASY TO TALK TO?
YeS. We discussed how we spend our days; Khalid is a golfer, while you’re likely find me at the gym or out walking. We also found we’ve both visited Japan and India.
I had studied the menu before I arrived, as I worried I’d be too nervous to choose. I had the shepherd’s pie and a chocolate bombe.
EMBARRASSING MOMENTS?
no, aLTHougH the restaurant was livelier than I anticipated.
DID SPARKS FLY?
WHILe Khalid is a charming gentleman, there wasn’t a spark. We talked about exchanging numbers, but I knew it wasn’t going any further, so I said no. He seemed relieved and said: ‘It’s good that we’re not going to give one another false hope.’
I’m a realist; if it won’t go anywhere, there’s no point in stringing it out.
WHAT DO YOU THINK HE THOUGHT OF YOU?
I Hope he thought I was a nice person. Initially, I was worried he wouldn’t see the real Jean. But once everything was under way, it was fine.
WOULD YOUR FRIENDS LIKE HIM?
YeS, but they would be surprised if things went any further between us.
after we’d left the restaurant, I went for a stroll in Kensington alone and reflected on what a lovely day I’d had. While I didn’t meet mr right, I’m glad I’d had the courage to go on the date.