Figuring Out Dating as an Introspective Comic Nerd

(I drew this in my comic ten years ago.)

I am going to broach a subject that we do not openly discuss in the forums, or at least is lacking an open channel for discussion: Dating.

The first time I ever saw an effort to blend nerd culture with dating was at the Ottawa Comic Con where there was an actual Speed Dating booth set up at the main entrance. The idea behind it was innocent enough–people with the nerdy fandom could meet other people with the same interests as them.

When I was eighteen, I scribbled down a rough timeline of major life milestones. Back then, I believed that I would get married when I was between 25-27 years old. Five years after the higher part of that bracket and I have let years on the dating scene slip between my fingers…until recently.

I have somehow stumbled into a very consistent and uncomplicated situation with a member of the more masculine sex. It began simple enough-I had a car and he needed a ride. Then I needed to stop for gas and then he cleaned my car's front and back windshields for me. As a single person that has been mostly independent for a majority of my adult life, that small traditional gesture really stood out, and gave me a reason as to why people willingly enter into partnered relationships.

It feels like I am treading very unfamiliar water. Whenever I suggest a place to eat, he agrees; When I suggested an overnight staycation in Downtown LA during the Thanksgiving Holiday, I was given the green light; When I trust him with the keys to my car, we get to our destination while I ride shotgun.

I do not feel the need to tip-toe over what I need to say like I am walking on eggshells. I can feel completely comfortable in the moment and when he asks for the check at the end of the meal and says, "I got this." I can not help but smile as I drive all the way back home.

.::.
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