“A ninja guards my cupboard”, I blurt out. That’s my lubricious way of saying buzz off without hurting a guy.

Think about it: what if a goofy looking guy from accounting, asks you out for drinks, and all you said was “A ninja guards my cupboard” ? Most guys would bolt, but you know what, Phil didn’t flinch.

“Phil, I’m not good at this dating thing,” I say quickly, not allowing him to think much about it. “and I suck at small talk. Most guys think I’m a dork.”

“I’m not most guys, Mary.” Phil says, taking my hand in his. “I find you funny and quirky. Most girls would just say no, but not you. You casually proclaim that a ninja is guarding your pantry.”

“um…cupboard…” I butt in. I’m wanting to go out with him now, so don’t jinx it.

“…but go on.” I look at him coyly.

“You and I can finish this chat down at Molly O’Grady’s pub.” Phil says with a grin. “Say around six-ish?” Damn, I didn’t know Phil was so charming.

“um..ok. Six it is.” I calmly nod, although in my mind I’m doing back flips.