Call me old-fashioned but I believe there’s something special about the words, I love you. Sure, in today’s world, it’s easy to say these three words to someone you just met but to me, it’s still a big deal when someone says them. I prefer building a relationship first then saying those magical words when the time is right. Besides, there’s something off-putting about someone proclaiming their love for you before they even get to know you. I can’t stand it.
Recently, I went on a date that I wish to erase from my memories. I met this tall, handsome guy at my local gym. He must have been new to the gym in our apartment since I hadn’t seen him before but he had confidence that attracted attention. After finishing my workout routine, I had a quick chat with a friend then made my way back to my apartment. As I walked through the isolated corridors, I could hear footsteps behind me. They got closer and before I could turn to see who had been following me, he had already caught up to me.
“Hi.” He said.
“Hi,” I replied and tried to walk faster but he kept up with me.
“I see why you work out.” He said then sized me up. “You have an amazing body.”
I smiled.
“Do you mind if we hang out later?”
After a short silence, I replied, “No. I don’t mind.”
“Great. I’ll come by in the afternoon.”
“Okay. That’s my apartment.” I said pointing at my door.
Sure enough, he was at my door that afternoon looking even better than before. He had changed into a crisp white shirt and fitted navy blue office trousers. We hang out for a short while, made small talk then he asked me out on a date. It took me by surprise since we had just met that day. He also gave me a weird vibe but I looked past it because he was handsome. I agreed and gave him my number so he could alert me instead of coming to my apartment.
However, while I was getting ready, I heard a knock on my door. It was the gym guy.
“You’re early,” I said.
“Yea. I’ve come to check if you’re okay.”
“Why wouldn’t I be?”
“No reason. Do you want some alcohol before we go?”
“No. I don’t drink.” I lied. He was too aggressive for my comfort so I had to be cautious with him.
“No problem,” he said sipping from a plastic cup he had come with.
By the time our Uber arrived, I could see that he was tipsy. Nonetheless, he managed to behave like a gentleman. We got to the restaurant where a waiter welcomed us and showed us to our table. After browsing the menu, I ordered a milkshake with my meal. Another thing that made me warm up to the guy was that he was a true gentleman. It was rare to find anyone in this age of technology who wasn’t glued to their phone. However, he didn’t touch his phone the whole time we were together and when he got a call he excused himself to answer it.
I started to let my guard down and I realized just how interesting he was. He had intelligent topics that I also happened to be passionate about.
“I read a lot.” He said after I complimented him on his intellect.
“That’s impressive. I can’t remember the last time I was on a date that excited me then you came out of the blues and here I am having the time of my life.”
“It’s my pleasure. You’re more than worth it.”
We talked the entire time as we had our dinner and when we finished, we simply sat in silence and stared at each other. That’s when he dropped the l-bomb.
“I love you.” He said in a low tone.
It must have come out accidentally because he seemed shocked when he said it. I tried to pretend like I hadn’t heard him but he said it again.
“I love you.”
This time, it was louder and firmer. He smiled and took my hand in his. I think he thought he was making a romantic gesture but for me, that was a nightmare but once again, I couldn’t say anything because I was smitten by his looks.
He went on and on about how I was his dream girl and that he thought it was fate we met at the gym. The more he talked the less interested I became. By the end of the date, I was completely put off and didn’t want to go on another date with him.
He noticed that I had not said anything.
“Why are you so quiet.” He asked as we headed home.
“I just feel overwhelmed.”
“Was it because I said I love you?”
I didn’t reply.
“I know. It slipped out but that’s exactly how I feel about you.”
“Is it? So, what do you love about me?”
“I…I think you’re…smart, funny, and pretty.” He stuttered.
“That doesn’t sound authentic.”
“I’m serious. I love you.”
This was the third time he said it and I snapped.
I could tell that he was not used to being rejected especially after turning on his charm as he did during our date. He kept trying to convince me that it was the alcohol talking but I was already over him. To make things worse, he tried to kiss me. Don’t get me wrong, I know many women would love to kiss him and hear him say that he loved them but it was hard to impress me.
We didn’t go on another date but we have met at the gym a few times and exchanged a few words. I was disappointed about how things went because he was a good guy. I genuinely enjoyed myself but saying I love you before getting to know me is a deal-breaker.
More stories on The Singlehood Series:
He Sent Me The Wrong Text While We Were On A Date
I Went On A Date With A Yes Man
When The Nice Guy You Are Dating Is A Bad Boy But You Can’t see It
This Great Guy Wants To Be My Boyfriend, But I Don”t Have Feelings For Him. Send Help!
My Date Thought It Was Romantic To Offer Me Drugs
