After having been out with quite a few men, I’ve come up with a “rejection” spiel; a thanks-but-no-thanks that’s gentle and calm, yet firmly gets the point across. Great to meet you, but I don’t really see this going anywhere.

Most guys are pretty understanding; most say they appreciate the honesty and wish me luck on the dating scene. Some don’t even respond, which is fine too. Last week, however, I came across a gentleman that not only didn’t take it well, but spent over three hours berating me, via text, for not wanting to go out with him again.

We had decided to meet for happy hour last week. He invited me to his home turf in the West End, and suggested The Halligan Bar and Grill. When I got there, I walked into the building, assuming he hadn’t arrived yet. He then called me and told me to meet me at his car; even though this was a little unusual, I switched directions and went to the parking garage (Mom, don’t worry, it was daylight and there were a lot of people around).

I finally found him, and we introduced ourselves. He handed me a rose (chivalrous) and then showed me a bottle of wine that was sitting in his back seat (interesting).

I took the rose and we went into the restaurant. He was funny, charming, and seemed sincerely interested in me. I thoroughly enjoyed meeting him, and really was disappointed when we parted ways; I didn’t, however, feel so strongly that I wanted to see him for a second date.

The next day, he suggested meeting up for a movie over the weekend. I “let’s just be friends”ed him, and he didn’t take it…um…very well.

So yes…the wedding is this Fall. I hope you all can make it!