A last-minute phone call explaining that he's going out with his mom instead. A two-carat diamond ring. A dozen roses and a dinner reservation at the restaurant where we had our first date.

Is talkative, funny and interested. He wants to make a good impression. Talks about himself. He wants them to think he's fascinating. Comments on how hot they are and seems to forget I'm even there.

Happily admits that I'm right. Shrugs it off as unimportant trivia Accuses me of gloating and gives me the silent treatment for the rest of the night.

Intuitively knows how to comfort me. Admits he feels powerless to help, but assures me he'll do whatever he can to help me. Vanishes. He doesn't do tough situations.

Gets in and starts the engine without opening my door. Holds open my door. Goes around to the driver's side, gets in and opens the door for me from the inside.

Takes out his credit card and, without commenting on it, pays the bill. Tallies up what we each owe, tax and tip included, and asks for my credit card. If I don't have it on me, he's happy to stop at an ATM after dinner. Confesses that he's only got about $20 on him and asks me to pay for dinner this time. He'll pick up the check next time.

A pen. A sterling silver bracelet. A CD mix he burned himself. He didn't have a box and figured this one would do.

Gone on vacation together. Talked about the kind of wedding we'll have. Never met his parents, siblings or friends.

Sticks by my side and makes chats comfortably with my boss and coworkers. Flirts with the buxom receptionist all night while I schmooze the higher-ups. Gets sloshed and tells my boss what I really think of her.

Concerned that I blew a tire on the freeway and wants to make sure I'm okay. Annoyed that he's been waiting around for me; after all, I could have called. Certain that I'm late because I hooked up with that guy from my office.