Free The Romantic Misadventures of a Modern Woman by Jessica Brown Page A

about a well-planned event. It has a good chance of being successful. Fellow diners were curious about our party when they saw us arrive at the restaurant in thhe limo. They seemed genuinely excited about our evening. Everyone felt special because something special was happening around them.
     
    How interesting that group dates can bring out the best in people. The men tried to be perfect gentlemen, not only because they wanted to impress the women, but also because they were in competition with the other men. One act of chivalry was quickly replicated, then surpassed. The men had not planned to compete, they just do it naturally. When men are together, one of them is always trying to win. During a one-on-one date with a woman, he is likely to cut corners and get away with it, since he is not challenged.
     
    I wonder why people feel less anxiety and social pressure on group dates. Each person carries a smaller share. Two people, on a date, are either talking or listening at any given time. People on a group date have more flexibility in a conversation. The more people there are, the less frequently anyone needs to speak, and only one has to be listening."
     
    Nita's phone sounded a reminder notification to let her know that it was time to go to Mrs. Foster's house. She walked out of her apartment and thought about the group date. "It was so much fun", she thought, "Why don't more people do them? Maybe, after we get to know the men a little better, we can do another one."
     
    Mrs. Foster was not in her garden when Nita arrived, so she walked up onto the porch and rang the doorbell.
    Mrs. Foster's voice called out from a distance, "Come around back, Nita!"
    Unable to see Mrs. Foster, Nita stepped off of the porch and walked to the back of the house. She was making holiday wreaths out of dried flowers, large seeds, leaves and evergreen boughs. Stepping up into her sun room, she motioned to Nita to join her. "Have some water."
    Nita opened the plastic bottle and took a few sips. "Thanks, Mrs. Foster."
    "Anytime, sweetie." Mrs. Foster patted Nita on the back of her hand. "We don't have much time. I want to talk to you."
    "OK." Nita replied.
    "I just want you to know that I'm proud of you. I remember the darkness that seemed to be following you and it is gone. You've been reading about healthy dating, getting support from professionals and associating with like-minded friends. You're taking positive steps to move your life forward. I wanted you to know that I noticed." Mrs. Foster offered Nita an encouraging smile.
    "You know, I consider you to be one of the people who helped me during that dark, difficult time in my life. I am so glad it's over. I will always be grateful to you."
    The doorbell interrupted Nita's words.
    "OK Nita, go on out through the front door." Mrs. Foster whispered. "When I hear the car drive off, I will come behind and lock it. I'll see you when he drops you off. Don't worry about how late. I'll be up."
    Mrs. Foster stayed in her sun room, out of view, as Nita answered the door.
     
    "Hi Nita. Are you ready for some football?"
    Nita smiled. "Of course I am. I've been looking forward to this, ever since our last date."
    "Your words are music to my ears!" Nathaniel gave her a peck on the forehead, grabbed her hand and walked her to his car.