No Sparks, No Connection

For this late dinner with Peng, Charlie chose the same restaurant where he had enjoyed an authentic Taiwanese meal with his Taipei colleagues.

The restaurant, permeated in a chummy mood, seemed the perfect setting for a dinner date. However, as Charlie and Peng sat across from each other at their table, the atmosphere was heavy with unspoken tensions.

Peng initiated the conversation, engaging in small talk to ease the nervousness. “This place exudes a homey feel, don’t you think?” he said, gently nudging Charlie’s shoulder.

Charlie nodded, managing a smile in response. “Yes, it’s cozy and unpretentious here. Xing recommended this place on my first day at the Taipei office, and the team had a lovely dinner here.”

Peng noticed Charlie’s hesitation and sensed the weight of Charlie’s reservations about him. Pushing aside his own discomfort, Peng decided to open up about his life. “Charlie, I’ve lived a life full of adventures and stories. I am grateful for my profession taking me to many places and meeting a lot of interesting people …”

Suddenly, Charlie interrupted Peng and took charge of the conversation. “Peng, listen. The reason why my guard is up is because my ex cheated on me multiple times during a difficult time of my life. Perhaps I had too many expectations from my boyfriend, but Alex couldn’t even be there to provide minimal support. Instead, he was out having sex with other guys.”

Peng listened carefully, finally understanding why Charlie had his emotional wall up. “I understand, Charlie. My dating history triggered memories of your past with your ex.”

Peng knew he needed to address the doubts that clouded their evening. “I’m not oblivious to your reservations, Charlie. I’ve had a colorful past, but that doesn’t define who I am now. I’m looking for something real, something meaningful.”

Charlie mustered a faint smile and suggested, “Why don’t we go ahead and order some food, Peng? I’m famished.”

They eventually placed their dinner orders. Charlie opted for the flavorful Lu Rou Fan, a Taiwanese braised pork rice bowl that he had the last time he was here, enjoying its delectable taste: succulent pork cubes glazed with a rich soy sauce blend, sugar, rice wine, and five-spice powder, topped with a garnish of scallions, shallots, and ginger.

As they dined, they engaged in light conversation. Peng inquired about Charlie’s Taipei visit, prompting Charlie to recount his exploration of the city. He mentioned places he hoped to visit, including the Shilin Night Market, a spot Peng had recommended during their first meal together. Chatting these Taipei must-see destinations helped diffuse some tension, shifting the focus away from Peng’s past relationships and any romantic inclinations.

Unexpectedly, Charlie looked up from the table and spotted a familiar face entering the restaurant. Out of the blue, Wen had also chosen this late-night spot for a meal. When Wen saw Charlie and Peng together, surprise flickered across her face. She was well aware of Peng’s reputation and seeing them dining together was undoubtedly unexpected.

Wen approached the table to break up the awkwardness with a friendly chat. “Hey, Charlie, nice to see you here after work. Late dinner?”

“Hi, Wen. What a coincidence to find you here, too. And you know Peng, right?” Charlie casually incorporated Peng into the conversation, hoping to preempt any uneasiness. 

“Hey, Peng. Surprising to see you here. And yes, Charlie, Peng, and I have crossed paths a few times before,” Wen said with a friendly smile.

Charlie sensed the need for transparency to prevent office gossip. Clearing his throat, he began to explain their impromptu dinner. “Wen, Peng happened to be in the neighborhood, and I was working late, feeling hungry. So, I suggested grabbing dinner at this restaurant where we had a great time when we were here.” 

Wen chuckled in response to Charlie’s explanation. “Oh, Charlie, you can have dinner with anyone you want. No need for explanations, my friend. We’ll catch up at work tomorrow. Enjoy your meal. Good night, Charlie, and nice to see you, Peng.” With that, Wen gracefully made her exit, heading to her own table.

Charlie and Peng wrapped up their dinner, stepping outside the restaurant to enjoy the cool night air for a brief moment.

“Peng, it’s getting late, and I have a packed day at work tomorrow. I think I’ll head home,” Charlie announced, signaling the end of their evening and attempting to hail a taxi for the journey back to his apartment.

Before Charlie could signal for a taxi, Peng swiftly pulled him close, his arms enveloping Charlie’s body. In a bold move, Peng pressed his lips against Charlie’s, savoring the moment with a passionate kiss.

As Charlie gently pulled back from Peng, a sudden revelation washed over him. There were no sparks, no electric connection ignited by that kiss.