Yes, we met in a sandwich shop………

July 2012:

My girlfriend (who we’ll call Ciara) and I decided we were going to have a much needed night out. Being new in Austin and not knowing where to go, we followed the advice of coworkers and ended up on 6th Street. After a night of bar hopping, dancing, and drinking, we were starving and walked into the first food option in sight. We place our order and head towards the restroom. Then someone announces that they are closing and the restroom isn’t available. Not words you want to hear at 2AM.

We leave and as we’re walking out a young man (who we’ll call James), compliments me and asks where I was going. I, not so nicely, replied “Move. I’m looking for a restroom.” He says, “No worries. You can go in Jimmy Johns with me. My friend and I just ordered food over there.” Not having another option, we agree. After Ciara and I handle our business, James is sitting down eating with another guy (Paul) who I end up sitting across from. I can’t remember why we sat down and starting talking to James and Paul, so I’ll assume it was the liquid courage and sleepiness taking over. After we introduced ourselves, Paul said he could tell I wasn’t from Texas, and I explained to him that I’d just moved to Austin. At this point it’s close to 3AM and I can barely keep my eyes open.

As we get ready to leave, Paul asked where we parked. He offered for them to walk us back to our car since we parked far away. As we’re walking to the car, we’re chatting about whatever it is you talk about at 3AM with someone you don’t know. I noticed James being extra flirty with Ciara, trying to hold her hand and very close to her face. I’m thinking ‘This guy is doing way to much. He needs to back off my friend’. I ask Paul what’s up with James and he just shook his head. When we get to the car, Paul asks for my number saying he’d like to see me again. That week he called and set up our first date. This isn’t a fairy tale or love at first sight story, but meeting Paul has been one of the best things that’s ever happened to me. He’s still the same gentleman I met in Jimmy Johns 4 years ago and I can’t wait to see what our future brings.

– Meme