Go on a blind date. We’ll pick up the tab. Fill out an application at bostonglobe.com/cupid.
Hillary B.: 33 / nurse
When she is happiest: With her dog walking in the park on the ocean
What makes her a catch: Great trivia team member
Kevin L.: 32 / research engineer
When he is happiest: Rock climbing, playing piano, painting
What makes him a catch: He’s kind and patient.
7 P.M. SOLEA RESTAURANT AND TAPAS BAR, WALTHAM
Go Fetch
Hillary I took my dog for a walk, then got down to the serious task of what lipstick best matched my outfit.
Kevin I took a rest after work before getting ready for the night.
Hillary I saw this man standing by the host stand and I had a feeling so I asked, “Are you Kevin?” Thankfully, I was right. Right out of the gate, I liked his vibe. Total cutie, glasses and a ginger beard. I mean, who wouldn’t want to talk to him?
Kevin She was very well dressed and had a kind smile.
Attention
Hillary Meeting someone for the first time is always a little bumpy trying to find that groove, but we got there.
Kevin We had explored a lot of the same parts of the world and probably crossed paths and just never knew it.
Hillary We talked, hobbies, family life, travel. He has a cool job helping people. Enjoys snowboarding, Catan nights with his friends, and painting. Kevin seems like a versatile guy with lots of interests to keep life from becoming boring. Finding out he was also a dog lover was pretty important — I’m very much a “must love dogs” kind of gal.
Kevin Both of us seemed to have a similar upbringing, a desire to have work be not just about a paycheck but about helping others, an appreciation for friends that have supported us through life’s chaos, and a love for dogs.
Hillary The restaurant was tapas style. The food was great; ironically I’ve always wanted to go there but never had been. The patatas bravas were yummy — you can’t go wrong when potatoes are involved.
Kevin We ordered coliflor, patatas bravas, and camarones al ajillo. I wouldn’t have thought to order cauliflower, but it had a pleasant seasoning and sauce.
Hillary I felt comfortable with Kevin quickly. He was not overbearing, genuinely held a good conversation, and was easy to laugh with. Chemistry was starting to bubble.
Kevin The evening had a tone more friendly rather than flirty.
Off Leash
Hillary We shut the place down. We spent almost three hours at the restaurant.
Kevin We talked about meandering to the ice cream place across the street, but by the time the dinner wrapped up it had closed.
Hillary He walked me to my car and we parted ways. He did text me later to make sure I got home and even gave my dog a shout-out remembering his name (can we say big green flag!).
Kevin I offered to walk her back to the car, and it was very nice to continue the conversation. In saying goodbye, we wished each other safe travels.
Second Date?
Hillary Yes, I think we will. We did exchange numbers and both talked about getting together again. It will be fun to see where this goes.
Kevin It could be nice to continue the conversation. We’ll see how life plays out.
Grading the Date
Hillary / A
Kevin / B+
Go on a blind date. We’ll pick up the tab. Fill out an application at bostonglobe.com/cupid.