I needed to act quickly. My first instinct was to leave, to put as much distance between myself and this potential danger as possible. But another part of me, a fiercer, more determined side, insisted that I needed to confront him, to see if he would admit to his true identity and intentions.

The waitress emerged from the kitchen, her eyes meeting mine. She nodded subtly, encouragingly, as if sensing my internal conflict. Her silent support lent me courage, and I decided to stay, to face him. I took a deep breath, trying to steady my racing heart.

When Michael returned, his demeanor was unchanged—still that same easy smile, still those disarming eyes. He instantly noticed something was off. “Everything okay?” he asked, his voice laced with concern.

I hesitated, weighing my words carefully. “I just read something interesting,” I said, keeping my tone steady. “Do you know anyone named David?”

His reaction was immediate, a flicker of surprise that he quickly masked. But it was too late; I had seen it. The mask had slipped, if only for a moment.

“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.

In the days that followed, I reported the incident to the authorities, providing them with the article and any information I had. It wasn’t much, but it was a start. The experience had been a harsh reminder of the masks people wear and the importance of trusting one’s instincts.

As for Michael—no, David—he disappeared once more, slipping back into the shadows. But I vowed to remain vigilant, not just for myself, but for others who might cross paths with him in the future. The waitress’s courage had saved me, and I hoped to pay it forward, ensuring no one else fell victim to his deceit.