that he needed to leave. He looked at Beth sadly. “I’m really sorry, but I just don’t think I’m ready to start dating if I’m not over her. I just… This is why I haven’t started dating yet.” He folded his napkin and placed it on the table next to his plate of uneaten food.

“Wait. You’re… leaving?” Beth asked.

The waitress came back with Mitch’s credit card and receipt. He signed the slip of paper, slid his card back into his wallet, and plopped down some cash for the tip. “It’s really not fair to you, to sit here and pretend I’m enjoying myself,” he said. “That’s not how I want to start dating again.” He got to his feet and pushed his chair in. “I’m really sorry. Maybe I’ll...

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