The author recounts her unexpected date with Mike, a seemingly straight man she met at the gym. Transitioning from suburban Philadelphia to Birmingham, she reflects on her limited dating experience, largely influenced by a gay social circle. Uncertain about her attraction to Mike, she recognizes the significance of dating in public spaces, drawing from her pop culture influences. The date represents a new chapter in her life, highlighting the complexities of navigating romance as a young woman with transitory relationships and uncertain social settings.
"Making it to an actual restaurant seemed like a sort of prize, or a summit that had been scaled: It meant that someone liked you enough to invite you to take part in the ceremony of public seduction."
"With no personal experience to draw from, I'd dredged most of my ideas about dating from the well of pop culture... restaurants are an essential part of any self-respecting courtship."
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