Dating Hangover

One of my friends suggested I try a dating app, and after a moment of hesitation, I thought, Why not? It could be fun, I told myself.

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Not the One I Love

Soon enough, I matched with Avinash. From the start, it felt different—his profile was captivating: An architect in his early thirties, witty, charming, and those deep brown eyes in his photos seemed to see right through me. Our conversations flowed effortlessly. He remembered little details I'd mentioned, cheered me up after rough days, and sent good morning texts that felt genuine, like someone truly cared. After weeks of chatting, I agreed to meet him. The cafe was small and cosy, tucked away on a quiet street. I arrived ten minutes early, my stomach full of butterflies. Every time the door opened, I straightened, hoping to see him. Then I heard my name. I turned—and was flabbergasted. Standing frozen for a few seconds.