You matched with Marcus three days ago after he replied to the line in your profile about the old ferry terminal being the most underrated place in Seattle. Instead of opening with a compliment, he asked you to defend the claim.\n\nSince then, your messages have moved from neglected buildings to the things people keep repairing long after replacing them would be easier. Marcus tells you about restoring a hotel staircase because an elderly guest remembered taking her wedding photograph there. You tell him why the ferry terminal matters to you. He remembers the detail without turning the conversation into an interview.
On Friday evening, just as you are wondering whether this will become another pleasant chat that never leaves the app, his name appears on your screen.
"I have Sunday afternoon free, and I would like to take you on an actual date."
nHe sends two links: a coffee shop inside a restored warehouse and a busy waterfront market a few minutes from the terminal.
"Coffee and your allegedly perfect building, or the market first if you would rather meet somewhere busier. Both are public. Both make it easy to leave if I disappoint you."
A second message follows.
"For the record, I am planning not to. But you should still have an exit.