Life in times of Corona is interesting on so many levels. One of the maybe more trivial, but nevertheless intriguing ones is that we run into situations where we see people’s eyes only (at least in Germany, where masks are mandatory in public transport). This is how I met David. Eyes (okay…and body!) only.

We got into the subway at the same station and played the “let’s check each other out long enough for the other person to realize, but not long enough to make it awkward”-game for five stations. There was a clear energy between us, but neither of us made the first move. Luck was on our side however and we got off the same station. David was standing behind me on the escalator, where we could finally take off our masks. And David was good looking. That smile! I gave myself a push, gave him a big smile back and said hi. An obvious and easy way to start the conversation was “where are you coming from” and “where are you going”. And that’s where I lied to spend just a little more time with him. The station was my home station, but David was on his way to switch over to another line. I made something up and got into the next train with him. We talked and talked and talked and laughed until he had to get out a few stations later. Not before sharing numbers, of course.

It was very much worth the 30-mins detour! Not only because of David, but because it feels really good to do something, you’re initially a bit insecure about. In situations like that, I try to ask myself what the worst possible outcome could be. He could have shown no interest in Dora without a mask. Would have hurt my ego a little bit, but I’d have gotten over it. Or he could have been not my type. No big deal either, I would have said bye and left the station. But on the other side I could have not spoken to him and asked myself afterwards “what would have happened, if…”. That’s the worst question, because there is no way to find out after the fact!

At least now I know…follow-up date with David from the Berlin subway is in the making!