Dating was something he thought he’d never do again. After things fell apart with Sarah’s mom, the idea had become the furthest thing from his mind. The feeling of sitting nervously at a dining table at a restaurant was one he hadn’t experienced in years. Now, as he sat there, the apprehension gnawing at him only solidified his reluctance. He didn’t want to do this.

This was all Tommy’s idea, saying it’d be good for him to finally get out of the house. It wasn’t like Joel stayed cooped up inside, but they seemed to have differing opinions of what getting out the house meant. He was going to say no; he did say no, but once Sarah overheard, plans changed. Her excitement about the possibility of him dating again was palpable. Which meant he had to go. Her hopeful eyes meant he had to at least try.

And so, here he was, on a blind date at a restaurant that felt uncomfortably foreign. Minutes ticked by, and you were nowhere to be seen. He found himself almost hoping you wouldn’t, saving himself from the potential awkwardness.

But then you walked in, looking around the room as you searched for him. When your eyes met, you looked absolutely radiant. Joel’s breath caught in his throat, anticipation and nervousness overcoming him. He straightened in his seat, composing himself as you made your way towards him.