First dates can reveal a lot before the second drink is even finished. For Evan, 32, the lesson came at an upscale seafood restaurant, where a simple agreement about splitting the bill turned into the defining moment of the night.
He had only recently started dating again after a quiet breakup. His routine had become comfortable, maybe too comfortable, until his sister Erin encouraged him to try a dating app.
After several awkward chats, Evan matched with Chloe. She was funny, direct, and easy to talk to. Their messages moved quickly, and within a few days, Chloe suggested meeting for dinner at a high-end seafood spot.
Evan agreed, but he was clear about one thing before they met: on a first date, he preferred to split the bill.