I Went On A Date Thinking I’d Met Someone Special, But His Next Call Changed Everything

I went on a date thinking I’d finally met someone polished. He ordered the priciest dishes, boasted about his love for fine dining, and told stories of quick trips to Milan. I thought I’d found someone impressive.

When the bill arrived, he suggested splitting it. I agreed, though I was slightly put off. Minutes after leaving, he texted me: I still owed him $3.75 for a coffee refill he noticed wasn’t included.

I assumed he was joking, but he was dead serious. I paid to avoid further messages. Two days later, he sent another receipt, insisting I reimburse him for half an espresso we’d shared. When I questioned it, he replied, “It’s about fairness. Little costs add up.” That’s when I ended things.

A week later, I ran into him at a party. He approached casually, claiming I owed him for sparkling water. When I said it was complimentary, he smirked, “Nothing is free.”

Friends later revealed his pattern—charging women for napkins, car “wear and tear,” even complimentary bread. I realized it wasn’t personal, just his habit.

The truth came out at a charity gala. I caught him pocketing donations, and security removed him. Soon after, he accused me of ruining his reputation. But I knew he had done that himself.

Months later, I saw him again—tired, thinner, humbled. He admitted his behavior came from debt and insecurity, apologized, and said he was changing. The lesson? Petty behavior often masks deeper struggles—but it’s still your choice to set boundaries and walk away.