CAROLINE C.: 24 / arts administration
When she is happiest: Surrounded by kind people
What makes her a catch: She’s someone who loves life.
MICHAEL D.: 23 / construction project manager
What makes him a catch: He’s creative, affectionate, kind, and chivalrous.
Last thing he read: Positivity 101: 15 Science-Based Strategies for Cultivating Enjoyment, Gratitude, Serenity, and Awe by Barbara Fredrickson
7 P.M. JULES ON DEVONSHIRE, BOSTON
Palette of Possibilities
Caroline My parents met on a blind date, so I thought if it worked for them, it might work for me.
Michael I saw the magazine and thought I’d fill the application out, just to see how I answered the questions.
Caroline I came right from work. I worried I’d be stood up or canceled on at the last minute. Once he arrived, I felt at ease.
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Michael I felt super nervous. Not having control made me anxious. I ran late due to traffic and parking issues, and that definitely didn’t help.
Caroline When he arrived, we shook hands and introduced ourselves. He was well dressed in a nice golf shirt, and I could tell he put a lot of effort into his outfit.
Michael I was truly stunned by Caroline — like looking at a marble sculpture or a Renaissance portrait of a woman. I thought, Oh my God, she’s the most elegant woman I’ve ever been on a date with! Which led to lots of butterflies in my chest.
Sculpting a Story
Caroline We started with casual conversation about work and where we went to college. He works in construction. We talked about our hobbies — he enjoys working out and building watches. He’s half-Italian like me, and he also has a great group of friends he clearly cares for.
Michael She works in the music industry and currently resides in Cambridge. She is self-described as very extroverted, with a friendly and bubbly personality that I can confirm. We both enjoy wine and prefer white. Both love a good Christmas movie. Both have close families.
Caroline I ordered chicken Milanese, and we shared focaccia. The service was great.
Michael I had the steak frites, and my steak was fantastic. We each drank an excellent glass of chardonnay.
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Caroline I felt comfortable throughout the date, but about halfway through, I thought, I’m not so sure I see this as a romantic connection. He was extremely nice and was actively trying to make conversation, but I felt more of a friend vibe.
Michael I realized that I really liked Caroline and noticed how much we had in common. But I’m worried my social skills and shyness were off-putting.
Wide Brushstrokes
Caroline After dinner, I was ready to head out. We agreed it was time to go our separate ways. He offered to walk me to the T, but I declined since he had parked next to the restaurant. Also, I really like my own time after a date to reflect. We shared a short hug before parting.
Michael I gave her the receipt with my phone number on it. I gave her a super awkward and anxious hug. I forgot to ask for a second date, which I regret.
Second Date?
Caroline No, very nice guy and I’m happy I took this opportunity, but I didn’t feel a romantic connection.
Michael I really hope we do.
Grading the Date
Caroline / B
Michael / A+
Go on a blind date. We’ll pick up the tab. Fill out an application at bostonglobe.com/cupid. Follow us on Twitter or Instagram @dinnerwithcupid.