Definition of a Date

Technically, a date can be defined as a previously planned occasion to meet to engage in a mutually agreed-upon activity. In the strictest of meanings, Brian and Alex's first meeting qualifies. Nevertheless, if one looks at the qualitative aspects of the first time they met, rather than relying on a simple checklist, one sees that it was not, in fact, a "date" in the context of a budding romantic relationship. Why? Because the first date was actually set for Friday. Brian and Alex had been on the phone for a couple of hours on Tuesday, though, and simply could not wait until Friday. So, they decided to meet right away. The objective was to determine if they could transfer what they had been experiencing electronically (online and over the phone) to the realm of bricks-and-mortar.

With time only to dress and put lip gloss on, Alex sped into the nite up to the South City Diner. Easily identifying Brian (lone white male wearing fedora, standing in front of Diner), Alex felt hampered by a sudden and unexpected shyness. Brian overcame that with his gentle manner. Satisfied that the energy between them hummed not only intellectually but also in person, they confirmed the setting for the first date - Friday.

Thus, that first meeting was a pre-date, akin to a pre-trial conference. Not the real thing. Alex joyfully stands strongly but sweetly at her original position.