Blind Date at Casa Fredo

She showed up on time. She's cute rather than ravishing. She's well dressed instead of flashy. She knew what she wanted to eat. She chose wine over beer. She's wearing one huge hoop ear ring and has no visible ink. She's personable rather than overwhelming. She's calm and composed. She agreed to the Italian restaurant. She's smart but not an intellectual. She could be the one but it would take time.

Our conversation was pleasant, easy. Silences were appropriate rather than awkward. She looked like her picture. Beautiful brown hair and sincere brown eyes.

Our meal came. We began to nibble.

Then out of nowhere she said "I love you."

I could tell she meant it.

I've heard that shit before, many times.

Never so soon.

I asked her if she were sure.

She said "no doubt, absolutely".

I could see that she meant it.

That was good enough for me.

I began to understand the single huge hoop earring. Another desperate female falling for me.

I tried to be polite but I couldn't wait to get outta there.

She went on eating while I freaked out.

The meal ended.

I told her that I enjoyed meeting her, which I did, but knew I'd never see her again. She knew it too and seemed saddened by the realization.

We shook hands.

She went her way and I went mine.

He was on time. He was older than his picture. He was polite. He was interested. He had a Bud light and drank it too fast. He was hesitant in his choice of a meal. He seemed friendly. He had good hair. He was short but not SHORT. He wore a tie with a loose knot. He could be the one but it would take time.

We chatted for a while until the meal came. He ordered another Bud light. I took one tast of my meal. It was delicious, better than I expected. I complimented him on his choice of restaurant. I told him that I love veal.

He said "really?" with an odd, disappointed tone.

I assured him that I meant it.

Something changed. Suddenly he became cautious and guarded.

I responded in kind.

We finished our meal.

He told me that he enjoyed meeting me.

He shook my hand and disappeared.

I knew the disappearance was permanent.

I didn't know why but it was okay by me.

Still I wonder.