One of the best of the hundreds of "stories" I've read on Medium. Partly because I have somehow managed to evolve in just this way, mostly, which has resulted in 3 live-in relationships, and 4 marriages. My problem, obviously, is staying with it when it goes sour, but I seem to be pretty adept at getting women to fall in love with me. I have learned over the years to do a lot of what you are suggesting.

"For example, if you know we love to read mystery novels, make reservations at a mystery dinner theater." So I have a new girlfriend for about 6 months, and she loves classical music, which I don't so much, but I surprised her for her birthday with a 3-day secret trip up to Sitka, Alaska, for the opening of the Sitka Summer Music Festival to hear a trio performing Rachmananoff. OK, Sitka was a former haunting (hunting?) ground in my youth, so it was also a lot of fun for me, but man, did I get beaucoup points for that.

But, I appreciate your self-awareness. Are you available for advice? I would really love to hear your take on a small problem I'm having. I'd do it publicly even if you'd like.