I thought there was chemistry... I did make her laugh

DATING PAST?

Let’s just say it’s not amazing. I tend to have flings rather than relationships. Women are tricky reads, aren’t they? I’m shy and also suffer with anxiety, so it’s hard for me to put myself out there and approach women.

PRE-DATE NERVES? they kicked in before the date.

FIRST IMPRESSIONS?

I arrived first as Priya was running 15 minutes late. she let me know, so I didn’t mind.

she is attractive and was wearing a beautiful red dress which suited her. We didn’t hug or kiss — I’m neurodivergent (meaning my brain works in a different way to the rest of society) and I would find that awkward. We simply said hello.

I didn’t pay her a compliment because I struggle with giving them — and receiving them.

EASY TO TALK TO?

yes. I’ve been vegan for nine years and stopped eating dairy products for health reasons. I didn’t mind that Priya ordered cod — she asked me first. But I felt bad for her that it wasn’t to her taste.

she had a couple of cocktails. I had a non-alcohol one and an alcoholic liqueur to finish.

I think I made Priya laugh when I said I’m like the character sheldon from the Big Bang theory — he’s a narcissist, obsessive and self-righteous about most things.

EMBARRASSING MOMENTS?

I studied Japanese at university and Priya wanted me to talk to her in the language. Put on the spot like that I just couldn’t — or, rather, wouldn’t — do it.

DID SPARKS FLY?

I don’t know, I kept my distance physically because I’m not so good at reading social situations. there might have been a bit of chemistry — it’s so hard to tell on a first date, and hard to remember afterwards. I know it’s something girls like to pick apart and they are, in fact, very good at doing that.

SEE HER AGAIN ?

I managed to get her number, but she is busy — she stressed that — and doesn’t have a lot of time.

WHAT DO YOU THINK SHE THOUGHT OF YOU?

she might have liked me a little, but I’ve been on dates when I’ve made them laugh (and I did make her laugh), then nothing has happened afterwards. she’ll have told her friends about me, though. WOULD YOUR FRIENDS LIKE HER? yes, Priya is eminently likeable.