Not wanting to fall behind, the second friend straightened up and tried his luck. Turning to his girlfriend, he said, “Could you pass me the sugar, sugar?” She rolled her eyes with a smile and handed it over. Laughter rippled around the table, and the two men exchanged proud looks. What started as a simple dinner had quickly become a friendly game of charm and timing.
Then it was the third friend’s turn. He shifted in his seat, suddenly very aware of the silence and the expectant faces. He scanned the table, searching for inspiration. His girlfriend watched, amused. He opened his mouth, hesitated, and closed it again. Finally, with a sheepish smile, he said, “Could you pass me the… uh… napkin, napkin?” The table erupted, his girlfriend laughing loudest as she handed it to him.
Outside, under glowing streetlights, the third friend joked he’d prepare better next time. His girlfriend squeezed his hand and told him she liked him just the way he was—and everyone knew that sincerity had won the night.
