I 31M have been talking to a woman 25F for well over a month. We’ve only been on three dates, nothing physical. Not even like holding hands or anything. She was clear she wants to take it slow/only has sex with her boyfriend and I respect that. First date mini golf + ice cream. I payed + planned. Second date lunch at her favorite place (she is a VERY PICKY eater). I payed + planned. Third date I wanted to surprise her with something a bit more romantic, see if we can move the needle.
With her dietary restrictions in mind, I tried really hard to put together a picnic dinner. In hindsight I should have just ordered fast food. But I wanted to *try* to see if I can make something she likes. I prepped that picnic. It required quite a bit of effort. She opened the box, looked at the food. Pretty much reinforced she’s a picky eater and doesn’t want it. I can’t emphasize effort: 2 types gluten free crackers, variety of cheeses (I had the kind she liked + a couple slices of pepperjack. She was quick to point out she didn’t like pepper jack), dark chocolate + milk chocolate (again, didn’t acknowledge the good), a pecan dessert that’s gluten free, salami with light mozzarella wrapped, chicken salad (mild and plain) and potato salad. Didn’t take a single bite. She was very polite. Wasnt rude necessarily. She did “feel bad”, she acknowledged she could tell I put a lot of effort in and what not. She just wanted Culver’s.
I wasn’t upset or anything. I think disappointed is the best word?