"What is wrong with that, Dave, is blatant trickery and manipulation." I replied.

"And by the way, the reason I may not have affirmed a connection had I seen your REAL picture, is NOT just about looks and size. However, I do value healthy habits, which include exercise and movement. I would like someone who also enjoys those things, so I have someone to do them with. Perhaps it a wrong assumption on my part, but I don’t imagine that hiking or sweating in a Bikram yoga class is high on your list of activities." I announced.

"My dear Sadie," Dave wheedled. "You are correct that I have not recently engaged in physical activity, but really, are you seriously going to disqualify a man who could satisfy so many other needs because he won’t walk with you?" challenged Dave.

My martini is kicking in and I just want to kick this arrogant prick. However, decorum prevails, so instead, I stand up, look him straight in the eye, and tell him, "You are the reason some women hate men. Fortunately, I am not one of them, but I have had enough of you and this conversation. Thank you for the drink. Enjoy your evening, and good bye."

I grabbed my coat from the back of the chair, and as I turned to put my arm in the sleeve, I punched the unsuspecting man who had just walked in and was about to sit down.

"Are you alright? Did I hurt you? I am so sorry," I gushed profusely.

He actually managed to smile at me as he stroked the spot on his arm I had just assaulted.

"Lucky for you that you are taller, or else you might be deaf right now." I managed to laugh as I said this. To which his response was a wide smile.

"You do have a mean right jab, for sure. Maybe I should help you finish putting on your coat, just to be safe.

"Too bad you are leaving. I would love to hear whose hit I just took," he chuckled as he held my coat as I slid my other arm in.

It IS still early. I may not be leaving after all...

Sadie Jackson, a fictional heroine, is back on the dating scene for the third time. After two trial marriages, she is bound and determined to get it right. She can be nauseatingly optimistic and enjoys recounting her dating experiences with humor and compassion. Follow her dating escapades in this work of fiction that will be updated on a regular basis.