Unlucky Charmer

At the celebration of my girl friend's engagement (to a successful handsome foreign gentleman in his early 30s) last week, my latest story was about to take shape.

Arriving early at 212, a stylish Upper East Side restaurant, I sat at the bar sipping a Watermelon Martini when a group of good-looking foreign men in suits walked in. I just knew we were going to be part of the same party, but I decided not to forewarn them until after I observed them for a bit.

The tall, dark, and handsome Charmer started some conversation with me and I decided that he'd be the character in my next tale. We had cocktails together and sat across from each other during dinner, all the while engaging in a flirtatious conversation which included the exchange of contact information.

I took a quick (nonchalant) glance at his business card and was delighted to know that I made the right pick tonight. Not only was he attractive, well dressed, charming, and charismatic... he's an MD at a major hedge fund!

Our main course arrived when I started conversation with the parents of the bride-to-be. Her mother leaned over and whispered "Be careful. He's married."

My luck!

I was having a good time and didn't mention anything to him that night. I'd be lying to say that I wanted to know the truth. A confirmation from him would ruin the entire imaginary story that I was only beginning to contrive.

The next day I read the numerous text messages he had sent to me... very flirty... very charming... very dangerous!

I couldn't drag this on any further. He requested to meet up with me again, so I asked point-blank if he was married (via text) and he attested.

He then explained that his marriage had no relevance to our simple "meeting" and that he genuinely thought our conversation was great.

Was I reading him wrong and assuming he was interested in me sexually when he actually just wanted another friend?

After reviewing the dozen or so text messages which, without going into detail, included the words - sexy, lips, smile, etc. I decided that I was not imagining this.

Don't date him New York!