Stars in his lies

Steve was persistent in sending me messages on OKCupid. He began by asking me out for the same day as his message. After no response for a few days, he pleaded for any response.

I did not respond to the first couple messages because it was a Saturday, and a girl’s got stuff to do. Though Steve’s photos were of a fit, attractive man, something in his narrative didn’t feel right, so I chose to ignore those first messages.

Upon receiving his last-ditch attempt, I revisited his profile to try to pinpoint exactly what it was that I did not like. Couldn’t find it. I appreciated the candor and tenacity of his messages, so I thought, “Why not?”

I agreed to meet for a drink during the week. I was punctual. He was early. We sat at the front corner of the bar of a trendy Henderson Avenue restaurant.

He looked eager. I casually asked about his day, and that seemed to put him on the spot. Conversation segued into the idea of being ‘present’ in life. Enjoying the moment. Seeing the truth in situations. I adore talking philosophically.

The philosophical took an astronomical spin. Steve began to describe a red dwarf star that was nearing Earth, and within two months, this star will have a strong gravitational pull on our fare marble as it aligns with the sun and a few nearby planets. Not necessarily apocalyptic, but severe tectonic plate shifting. Steve said many people will be troubled by this. He encouraged me to find my peace and get my life in order.

I was over the moon! This is the type of conversation that Hollywood writers get paid to put on television, but I was getting in real life and treated to a cocktail at the same time!

As I continued to listen, Steve talked about work. He works in the fitness industry and has big ideas for a business venture. I will not divulge details as this was in confidence.

As he detailed the future of this business venture, he kept tripping over his words. The ex-wife sounded not so former but present. I asked, “When did you and your wife divorce?”

“Well, it's just a matter of the paperwork now,” Steve replied.

My light disposition fell grave. He lied. His profile stated single. As I stood to go to the ladies room to compose myself, I said, “I do not date married men.”

“This isn’t a date,” Steve replied. Moments after paying our tab. Buying me a couple drinks. At a restaurant. Just the two of us.

I could not leave his presence fast enough. How’s that for being present?

Steve was a reminder that I don’t need to pinpoint what specifically my instinct doesn’t like. But if I don’t listen to it, I will see it when the stars align.