After a 2 year long dating hiatus after the end of an LTR, decided to give dating a chance. Well, it happened. For the first time ever I got stood up by someone on a date. And I wasn't expecting it at all. 

We were talking since a few weeks, vibing well. She's smart, has interesting hobbies, didn't type only in slang (Lst grl I matchd on bumble b4 her spoke lyk this), actually seemed interested in me and had some good deep conversations. I was like wow, this could be the start of something meaningful. Our schedules allowed and we  finally decided to meet up. Dressed up well, picked up a cute Sunflower on the way. Travelled for more than an hour in the sweltering hot afternoon sun, and she went MIA! 

Had spoken to her an hour before leaving, wherein I confirmed the time with her on call. Then once I reached the spot and waited for half an hour, no response, radio silence. Absolute cinema. Was confused, disappointed and lowkey sad. Was it something I did? Is there something wrong with me? A lot of questions popped up in my head which made me contemplate my own shortcomings.

But then I remembered what the stoics say - *Nobody has the power to control your emotions. You are responsible for the way you feel, at every moment*. No matter how bad a situation you are in, *You always have a choice*, the choice to decide how you react and feel. I could sulk and go back home or make the most of my Sunday since I was already out anyway. 

**So this is what I did:**

\- Had a nice coffee and read a book in a corner, alone, for the first time in years. The chapter was about Trauma, the timing. I know.

\- Went to a crossword outlet and picked up a couple of books, a few gifts for family and friends who actually matter to me

\- Hit a Salon and got a fresh haircut, head massage and a pedicure! Feet have been neglected for a while, Getting stood up should be followed up with a pedicure no? ;)

\- Headed to the beach in the evening, watched the sunset with stray cats to keep me company. Finally wrapped up with an Icecream! Baskins & Robbins - Lotus Biscoff is nice, get it before it's phased out!

\- Also, I'd got her a sunflower because she mentioned she likes them. Gave it away to a little girl selling baloons outside the mall. She was excited and jumping with joy, asked me if 'asli hai'? And kya bolte hai ye phool ko? I finally know it's called Sooryamukhi in Hindi. Thanks google.

7 hours later, now she responds. I'm obviously not going to converse with her going forward, but I want to ask you guys and girls, what does 'Cold Feet' before a first date mean! Is this a thing?

Got stood up, Ghosted by Bumble date after reaching the spot. Decided to turn it into a self-care date