Alex on Rachel
What were you hoping for?
A good plotline, a fun evening, and the chance of a connection.
First impressions?
She looked glamorous but a bit nervous. I felt a little underdressed in the fancy hotel – she mentioned she’d changed her outfit after seeing how nice the place was.
What did you talk about?
Soul music, ACL injuries, academic misconduct, techno music, and star signs (ours were incompatible).
Most awkward moment?
When we said we were with the Guardian, the waiter thought we meant we were with our legal guardian.
Good table manners?
Excellent.
Best thing about Rachel?
She was a great listener and super curious.
Would you introduce Rachel to your friends?
For sure.
Describe Rachel in three words.
Kind, curious, and intelligent.
What do you think Rachel made of you?
She said the main thing she was looking for was someone who wasn’t a dick, and she said I wasn’t, so I guess that’s a win?
Did you go on somewhere?
Only from the hotel restaurant to the hotel bar.
And… did you kiss?
We did not – we had two hugs. She’d friend-zoned me over text before the night was over!
If you could change one thing about the evening, what would it be?
Ideally, the date would have been on a weekend – the free cocktails made for a rough time at work the next day.
Marks out of 10?
8.
Would you meet again?
As friends.
—
Rachel on Alex
What were you hoping for?
A fun change from the monotony of dating apps… and hopefully a plus-one for wedding season.
First impressions?
His confidence immediately put me at ease – and the flowing locks, of course.
What did you talk about?
Growing up in the East Midlands, what we’re reading, the takeover of AI… Alex even checked our star sign compatibility, although it wasn’t very favourable so we quickly moved on.
Most awkward moment?
When the waiter poured our wine, he asked if Alex wanted to down his in one – neither of us knew if it was a joke.
Good table manners?
Of course – no faults.
Best thing about Alex?
He is so easy to talk to.
Would you introduce Alex to your friends?
Yes.
Describe Alex in three words.
Charismatic, intelligent, and authentic.
What do you think Alex made of you?
Someone who is overly paranoid about getting something stuck in their teeth – and hopefully good company.Where did you go?
We had a few cocktails.
Did you kiss?
No.
If you could change one thing about the evening, what would it be?
I would have liked a more flirty atmosphere.
What would you rate it out of 10?
7.5.
Would you meet again?
Yes, but just as friends.
Alex and Rachel dined at The Parlour, Great Scotland Yard Hotel, London SW1. Interested in a blind date? Email blind.date@theguardian.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
Of course Here is a list of FAQs about being friendzoned by text with clear and direct answers
Basic Definition Questions
1 What does it mean to be put in the friend zone
It means someone youre romantically interested in sees you only as a friend and has made that clear closing the door on a potential romantic relationship
2 What does by text before the evening ended imply
It suggests the person felt the need to clarify the platonic nature of your relationship quickly even during or immediately after your time together often to avoid leading you on or to manage an awkward situation
3 Is the friend zone a real thing
Yes but its more of a popculture term for a common situation unrequited romantic feelings where one person wants to stay friends
Emotional Social Dynamics
4 Why would someone do this by text
They might have felt the inperson dynamic was becoming too flirtatious or intense and wanted to set a clear boundary without a potentially uncomfortable facetoface conversation
5 Was it rude of them to do it by text
It can feel impersonal and harsh but their intention was likely to be direct and clear not necessarily to be rude They may have been trying to avoid hurting your feelings more in person
6 Does this mean I did something wrong
Not necessarily Attraction is complex and often not a reflection of your worth or actions They may simply not feel a romantic connection and thats okay
7 Should I ask them why they friendzoned me
Generally no Pressing for reasons can put them on the spot and create more awkwardness Its better to accept their decision gracefully
Practical Next Steps
8 How should I respond to the text
Keep it short cool and respectful A simple reply like No worries thanks for being honest I value your friendship shows maturity and saves your dignity
9 Can I ever get out of the friend zone
Its possible but unlikely and often not healthy to pursue The ball is in their court and trying to escape usually leads to more frustration Its better to accept their feelings and move on
10 Should I try to stay friends with them
Only if you can genuinely let go of your romantic feelings If
