Is this a test? she asked.

What?

These questions you’re asking.

No, he told her. This is not a test. These are just questions. You can answer them or choose not to. It’s up to you.

I’ve never been on a date where I felt interrogated. Asked over and over. Have you done this? Did you do that? It’s quite annoying, to be honest with you. Do you question every woman you go out with?

Yes.

Have any of these dates turned into long-term relationships?

No.

I wonder why. 

They never return phone calls. Always leave me in the dark. I guess the term is ghost. Yes. They ghost me. I never heard from them again, he said. Are you enjoying your meal?

The food here is quite good.

Yes. It is. I like it.

Do you bring all your dates here for questioning?

I know the menu.

I see.

You’re almost done. I suppose you’ll take a cab home.

Yes.

Leave me with the tab.

Did you want me to pay for my meal? she asked.

I would.

I wasn’t expecting to.

Well, I thought you would answer the questions.

No. It’s none of your concern. She leaned over the table. Yes, I’ve had several lovers. Yes, I’ve been married twice. Yes, I’ve had one night stands. What else do you want to know? I had an abortion back in ’98. My step dad always had his eye on me. Mom hated me.  Anything else?

No. I was just curious.

Excuse me, won’t you.

Of course.