“David?” he repeated, feigning ignorance. “No, can’t say that I do.”

I nodded slowly, my decision made. “I think I need some air,” I said, standing up. “Excuse me.”

Without waiting for his response, I headed towards the restaurant’s exit, my heart pounding in my chest. The waitress caught my eye as I passed, her expression one of relief and understanding. She had taken a significant risk to warn me, and I was grateful.

Outside, the cool night air hit me, a stark contrast to the warm tension inside. I pulled out my phone, blocking Michael’s number and deleting the dating app. My heart still heavy with the evening’s revelations, I couldn’t help but feel a wave of gratitude towards the stranger who had chosen to intervene.