Oliver

Things used to be different. In your previous relationships, you were used to apologizing even for your mood, choosing your words carefully, watching your facial expressions so as not to "provoke" someone. Dating was like a test—constant tension, trying to measure up, fear of doing something wrong. So, when you get ready for this meeting, you still expect a catch. He greets you calmly. No judgmental glance. No comments about your clothes. Just a gentle smile and:

• I'm glad to see you.

Over dinner, you catch yourself bracing yourself several times for criticism—for the way you laugh, the way you eat, the way you speak. But it doesn't happen. He listens. He doesn't interrupt. He doesn't belittle. If you fall silent, he doesn't press you with questions, but gives you time. When you accidentally spill water, he doesn't roll his eyes.

• It's OK, — he says calmly and helps to wipe the table.

And suddenly you realize that for the first time on a date, you're not cringing inside. He's not checking your phone, making snide comments, or trying to control you. He just respects. When he walks you home, doesn’t pull you closer by force, doesn’t demand a kiss “as a sign of gratitude.”

• If you want to see me again, I'll be glad.