My date with Kyle

On Friday night I met Kyle (from Match.com) for a drink at a nearby pub.  It wasn't the greatest date, but it probably would have made an amazing sitcom episode.

My plan was to walk to the pub and get there a bit early so I'd have time to cool down before he arrived.  (Yes, walking in the cold still makes me overheat.)  So imagine my horror when I got a text from Kyle just as I was leaving my apartment.  He was already there!  I didn't want him to have to wait long so I speed-walked the whole way.  In high-heeled boots.  Any attempt at arriving without looking like I'd just come from the gym went out the window.


Three steps into the pub and my glasses fogged up.  Wonderful.  I chucked them in my purse and tried to locate my date.  I saw a guy alone in a booth, but when asked, "Are you Kyle?" he was really offended.  Other tables turned to look at the scene.  I wasn't going to risk causing another, so I decided to text Kyle and say "I'm here!  Please wave."  Thankfully, even without my glasses, I can see someone waving at me.

We said hello and he shook my hand.  I found this a bit strange because most people go in for the awkward hug.  A handshake seems a bit... job interview?  I don't know.  We found a table but I didn't even sit down -- I threw my coat on the chair and excused myself to the washroom, because I had no doubt I looked like a hot mess.  I should have taken the time to fish out my specs -- the man at the urinal was as surprised as I was.  I think I caused him to splash a little. 

When I got back to the table Kyle was nice about my men's room mishap, agreeing that the signs were indeed a bit small.  While looking over the drinks menu I was able to size him up.  Conclusion:  raging hipster - everything from his super-fitted plaid button-down to his tight jeans and oversized glasses.

Yep, pretty close.  Just imagine the shirt in an ironic, lumberjack plaid.

 

The conversation wasn't forced, but it wasn't sparkling either.  After 3 pints (his of Creemore, mine of cranberry and soda -- yes I'm the cheapest date ever) I decided to get going.  I wanted to meet my friends Muffy and Damian for a drink before they headed home.  I stood up to get my coat on, expecting him to stand up as well, and go in for the customary awkward hug, but he didn't move.  He just sat there.  Not even another handshake!  I said thanks for the drinks and got the hell out.

So that was my date.  Not great, but not the worst I've ever had.  (The bar is pretty low.)  Definitely not expecting him to call again, and don't particularly want him to. 

Here's a question for you readers.  How do you start and end a date -- handshakes or hugs?