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Matt Tomporowski's avatar

Haha, this one made me laugh! Definitely, dating adventures cna lead to some unexpected outcomes (and offers...) Great points at the end, especially the one about keeping expectations in check.

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Mark V Smallwood's avatar

That’s my number one takeaway from the whole experience of modern dating Matt - one needs to be interested, but uninvested, during the early phases. Sadly, my experience of online dating is the prevalence of the ‘replaceability’ mindset - not sure there’s a solution but hey, one has to try. 🕺

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Veronica Llorca-Smith's avatar

Oh Goodness, Mark!!

I did not see that one coming - you had me in tears.

It's funny how I posted about your transferrable skills but turning you into a gigolo is taking it a bit far, even for me, hahaha.

BEST article from you I have read so far.

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Mark V Smallwood's avatar

😂😂😂😂😂❤️

Too funny Veronica!

I’ve been crazy busy since we last spoke but found such joy in getting back to writing yesterday 😎😎

I hope you’re also well?

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Veronica Llorca-Smith's avatar

Pretty busy here too as I now I’m training hardcore for my triathlon next month (just finished a 2-hour bike ride).

But I confess I love being busy with the things I love doing 😎

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Mark V Smallwood's avatar

Wishing all the best with all of that 💪🏻🚴‍♀️

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Unni Turrettini's avatar

So many great lessons in here! Makes me feel glad I'm not dating LOL

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Mark V Smallwood's avatar

Thanks so much Unni .. it’s a mug’s game 🤦🏻‍♂️😂😂

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Francis F's avatar

Hahahaha 🤦🏻‍♀️🤦🏻‍♀️ is it a back handed compliment? I’m not sure 🤔😝 what a nightmare ! This does make one wonder if she’s only on the dating app to recruit ‘a partner’ I feel for you ! But like me , at least we get great stories to write about !!!!!! 😂 I’m trying to think if I’ve ever had any job offers ? 🤔

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Mark V Smallwood's avatar

I’m betting you have 🤪👍🏻😇😂

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Francis F's avatar

Well something did cross my mind as I wrote that 😆😆🤷🏻‍♀️🤷🏻‍♀️

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Mark V Smallwood's avatar

Please share and write the story for us all 💃🙏🏻

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Laura A Manning's avatar

Such a wonderfully crafted piece that deftly explores themes of communication, the unpredictability of attraction, and the surreal turns life can take. The blend of humor, tension, and relatable emotional experiences left me both laughing and pondering what I would do in your shoes, Mark. It's a testament to your talent that such an outrageous situation feels grounded and real, and I found myself eagerly anticipating the next twist in this delightful escapade. 🙏☺️

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Mark V Smallwood's avatar

Thank you so much, Laura (not the star of this particular story, I assure my other readers 😉)!

I’m thrilled you enjoyed the blend of humour and absurdity - living through these, I never quite know what twists are around the corner myself! 😂

It’s great to hear I had you laughing and pondering at the same time.

Hopefully, the next adventure will tickle you just as much.

Thanks again for the kind words x🙏☺️

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Laura A Manning's avatar

I can confirm, I am not a lady of the night 💃 🙈😂 x

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Mark V Smallwood's avatar

Never say Never 💃🤦🏻‍♂️😂

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Mark V Smallwood's avatar

👀😂😂😂😂😂

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Wendy Martin's avatar

I can say I’ve never had that job offer, Mark. Many of my dates offered me her job! Their private lady of the night, chef secretary, laundress, ie: wife. 🦕

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Mark V Smallwood's avatar

Ha! Well, it seems we’ve both had our share of “interesting” offers!

I’m impressed by your multi-faceted job descriptions - chef, secretary, laundress - sounds like they wanted the full-service package! 🦕

It’s funny how dating can feel like applying for roles you never knew you were up for.

Hopefully, any future options come with better hours and a more reasonable job title! 😉

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Oct 4
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Mark V Smallwood's avatar

Although that sounds like I’d have considered it otherwise! 😳🤦🏻‍♂️🎉😂😂😂

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Mark V Smallwood's avatar

Well .. she went into a little too much detail and it turned out you don’t get to be selective about your “clientele” ….

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Oct 4
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Mark V Smallwood's avatar

Noooooooooooo! 😂🤣🙈

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