A Shell of A Man

She arched an eyebrow, "Yes you are" she teased.

"Awww, are those for me?" She took the orchids from me, "they're beautiful. You are such a little sweetie!.... well, come in!" With that, she ushered me in.

Despite a shaky start, the evening was well underway...

Her apartment was quite impressive. It was at least three times larger than mine. It was tastefully decorated with modern art and eclectic furniture, complete with classic and contemporary pieces. It was clear that a great deal of care and attention had gone into designing and decorating this lavish apartment.

She excused herself for a few minutes as she tended to the flowers, putting them in water.

After what seemed like an eternity, she emerged from the kitchen.

That's when the worst thing that could ever happen on a first date happened. I had nothing to say. I was drawing a blank. I desperately searched my mind trying to come up with something to say, about anything.

We just stood there in awkward silence, looking at each other.

"So, you didn't go to work today?" she asked.

"How did you know that?"

"Silly billy! I live across the hall from you." She teased.

"Oh.... I called in sick."

"You don't look sick"

I was desperate to change the direction of this conversation; I sure as hell didn't want her thinking that I skipped a whole day of work just to prepare for our date.

"I love your apartment. It's just divine."

"awww! Thank you sweetie. Let me give you a little tour."

With that, she extended her hand to me. I swear I felt a spark. It was electric, this was pure bliss. For the next fifteen minutes she gave me the tour of her large apartment. It seemed like every sculpture and every piece of art had a story behind it.

The sheer size of this apartment astounded me. It was in fact a three level apartment. Complete with formal lounge, formal dining, a home cinema, a large kitchen and meals area, four bedrooms, five bathrooms, a gift wrapping room and a library. I felt bad for her maid, who ever she was.