Dream Date

Single mother focused on goals and ambitions not just for myself, but for my children as well. It was little to no time to explore romantic friendships. Out of the blue comes this strange but interesting individual who sparked a conversation about absolutely nothing. It was alarming, because as strange as the conversation was, at that moment, got me out of my head and away from my mental desk. Anyone that knows me knows that’s not an easy task. I couldn’t help but wonder what provoked this striking but unique individual to engage in a mask conversation. As short as the conversation was, it still left a footprint. So much so, prior to us going our separate direction he asks if I would entertain him in another conversation by phone. Again, such a unique way to ask someone for their telephone number I felt compelled to oblige. We exchanged numbers and this is where the adventure truly began.

This striking but unique individual called himself, Harold. Harold didn’t waste any time. An hour after our meet and greet I received a text message that read, “I thought I will be a good Samaritan and let you know you left something.” Baffled, I only had two bags, my purse, phone, and keys all of which were present during roll call prior to leaving the parking lot. What could he be referring to that I left? I replied, “That is so sweet of you to let me know. However, I believe I have everything that belongs to me.” Harold followed with, “No, you left my ability to think about anything else.” Flattered I responded with an aww emoji smiley face. The reality of the situation, due to that previous footprint he left, I hadn’t fully pulled back up to my mental desk.

It didn’t take long to realize Harold was not like your average Joe. Even the way he was respectful during his conversations proved he was a different bread. Two weeks, several phone calls, and countless text messages later, Harold asked the question. “Denise I would love to escort you on a dream date.” Instantly, I went into thought… What could possibly be Harold’s definition of a dream date? To prevent my thoughts from going into this endless rabbit hole of possibilities I asked, “A dream date consists of?” My pause was a verbal clue I needed him to fill in the blank. He chuckled and said an opportunity for us to Dance, Romance, Eat with Amuse Bouche Merlot 2008. Wow! Harold has done it again left me speechless. I accepted his invitation and we set a date.

Five days, three hours, twenty-four minutes later, our set date had arrived. Like a gentleman, Harold was on time. Our initial encounter begins with a mask conversation of each other's well-being. It wasn’t long before our mask was coming down as well as our guard. Harold's selection of this very elegant establishment provided a very relaxed atmosphere. As the pianist played, I could see individuals in the dance hall slowly embracing their partner. Harold showed no signs that he was in a rush, instead, he was patient, kind, respectfully, and observant. When the waiter came over, he ordered a bottle of Amuse Bouche Merlot 2008. As we sip and ate his conversation never lost interest. It was then I realized the romance part of this date wasn’t physical but mental. I reached across the table and touched his hand and ask if he would join me in a dance. He smiled and said yes. We slow danced through two songs but to prevent me from making any weak in the moment decision I pulled away. He asked, “Was everything ok?” “Yes,” I said. “but I must be headed back now.” He acknowledges he understood, but his facial expression showed a little disappointment.

Everything about this date was amazing, the wine, the food, the music, the atmosphere, and the companionship. I couldn’t dare leave him with that disappointing expression. As we exit the building, I stated, “it feels so good out here this evening would you be interested in taking a walk.” He glared over at me and with the sweetest smile stated I would love to. And just like that our dream date continues…