The next weekend, sitting across from Lidia at a favorite restaurant, the waiter delivers our fried pickle spears appetizer and offers to bring us two more drinks. We’ve covered the usual: her classes, my art, her activities, the weather, and plans for the rest of the week.

Now’s my chance to ask for advice. “I’ve been researching dating,” I blurt.

“Why?” she asks between bites.

“Don’t you think it’s time I consider it?” I defend.

“No. I’m ...