Woman Sets Up Widow And Single Mom For A Date, The Guy Cuts It Short And Hides The Horrible Reason

If you’re single, chances are your friends have tried to play matchmaker at some point. Usually, it’s sweet… but let’s be honest, sometimes it ends in total chaos or something even messier.

One woman shared the story of setting up two of her friends, only for her guy friend to show up visibly upset after the date. Meanwhile, the woman he was set up with said everything had gone well. Keep reading to find out what really happened and how the whole situation unfolded.

Finding a partner later in life can often feel like an emotional roller coaster

Woman and man on a date in a cozy restaurant, with the woman smiling and holding a glass of red wine.

Image credits: LightFieldStudios / envato (not the actual photo)

A woman shared how her close friend completely cut her off after she set him up with someone

Woman sets up widow and single mom for a date, guy cuts it short and hides the horrible reason behind it.

Text excerpt describing a woman setting up a widow and single mom for a date with common interests and similar-aged kids.

Text about a woman setting up a widow and single mom for a date while caring for the child to give them time together.

Text excerpt describing a woman setting up a widow and single mom for a date, with the guy hiding a horrible reason.

Text excerpt recounting a woman's date with a guy who abruptly ended it, leaving her confused and hurt.

Text excerpt about a woman trying to understand why a date with a widow and single mom ended abruptly.

Text excerpt expressing worry and hurt from a woman setting up a widow and single mom for a date.

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Image credits: tonodiaz / envato (not the actual photo)

Woman sets up widow and single mom for a date, but the guy cuts it short hiding a horrible reason behind it.

Text post discussing a woman, a widow, and single mom set up for a date where the guy hides a horrible reason.

Text excerpt showing a woman discussing a date with a widow and single mom, revealing a hidden reason related to his wife's death.

Image credits: gawsharon

As she revealed more details about the situation, people online stepped in to share advice

Screenshot of a woman setting up a widow and single mom for a date, with the guy abruptly ending it for a hidden reason.

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Text conversation discussing dating advice for a widow and single mom, focusing on handling rejection and moving on.

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Comment about unresolved issues and giving space, related to woman sets up widow and single mom for a date.

Comment about a widow and single mom's date where the guy cuts it short hiding a terrible reason.

Text message expressing sympathy for lost friendship and advising to respect his need for space and time to talk.

Text message conversation offering advice about understanding and reconnecting with someone after a failed date involving a widow and single mom.

Comment about a woman setting up a widow and single mom for a date, with the guy ending it quickly for a hidden reason.

Comment discussing feelings of guilt about moving on after the loss of deceased loved ones during the year.

Comment on a dating story, showing text about a man missing his late wife and first intimacy since her loss.

Text message conversation discussing a woman setting up a widow and single mom for a date and the guy cutting it short.

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Screenshot of an online comment discussing a man cutting a date short after being set up with a widow and single mom.

Screenshot of a woman setting up a widow and single mom for a date, with the guy abruptly ending it for a hidden reason.

Arriving on time for a first date helps make a strong and positive first impression

First dates should feel like a mini adventure, a chance to meet someone new, laugh a little, and maybe discover a spark. The goal is to get to know the person, not impress them with over-the-top gestures or a perfectly curated persona. Relax, breathe, and enjoy the process. Fun energy is contagious, and showing that you can be relaxed and engaging is half the magic.

Arriving on time shows respect and sets the tone for the evening. Being a few minutes late is understandable, but showing up 30 minutes or more late is a first-date faux pas. Imagine your date sitting there, checking their watch, wondering if you value their time. It creates unnecessary tension before the conversation even starts. Being punctual tells your date you care, and it helps both of you start the night with good vibes.

Trying to impress someone by exaggerating your skills or interests is tempting but risky. Claiming you love adventure sports when you’re terrified of heights, or calling yourself a pro skater after one office outing, can backfire quickly. Authenticity is attractive, and it’s easier to build connection when you’re honest. 

A first date shouldn’t feel like a monologue. Thoughtful questions and active listening show that you’re genuinely interested in the other person. Avoid mindless banter, interrupting, or talking over your date— it’s a turn-off. Engage with their answers, laugh, and ask follow-up questions. People remember how you make them feel, and showing curiosity and empathy can make a huge difference. 

Scrolling through notifications, replying to messages, or checking social media every few minutes sends a loud message: you’re not fully present. First dates are rare opportunities to connect, so treat them like it. Turn off distractions and give your date your full attention. Eye contact, smiles, and genuine engagement speak volumes. Being “in the moment” shows respect, interest, and emotional maturity. After all, the best stories and laughs happen when your phone is tucked away.

Your outfit doesn’t need to be a runway show, but it should show effort and self-respect. First dates aren’t the time to appear rushed or underdressed. Aim for a balance between comfort and style. A little thought goes a long way in communicating that you value yourself and the experience. Bonus points if your outfit reflects your personality, it’s an instant conversation starter. 

Drinking too much and misbehaving on a date is a definite no-go

Man looking frustrated on a date with a woman at a candlelit dinner, hiding a horrible reason for cutting it short.

Image credits: Prostock-studio / envato (not the actual photo)

Sharing a little about your past is fine, but rehashing old relationships or complaints about exes is a no-go. First dates are about new beginnings, not unresolved baggage. If you’re still processing past heartbreaks, take time to reflect before jumping into dating. Too much ex-talk can make your date feel like a therapist instead of a partner-in-crime. 

Confidence is magnetic, but over-the-top bragging can ruin a date. Share accomplishments naturally, but avoid turning the conversation into a trophy list. Remember, your date wants to connect with a real person, not a walking résumé. A little self-assuredness paired with warmth is infinitely more appealing than an ego-heavy monologue.

A drink or two can help ease nerves, but overindulgence is a recipe for awkwardness. Getting drunk on a first date can lead to embarrassing behavior, miscommunications, or instant regret. Know your limits and pace yourself. It’s better to have a memorable, enjoyable evening than a blurry story you’ll both cringe over later. Remember, your actions on a first date set the tone for potential future adventures.

In this particular case, it seems the author’s friend not only got drunk but also misbehaved. How would you handle a situation like this? Share your thoughts.

Eventually, her friend reached out and cleared the air about what had really happened

Text update about a woman setting up a widow and single mom for a date, revealing the guy’s hidden reason for cutting it short.

Text describing a woman sets up widow and single mom for a date, but the guy cuts it short and hides the horrible reason.

Text excerpt describing tension between a woman, her daughter, and a guy after a date situation involving a single mom.

Text excerpt explaining a confrontation involving a woman, a widow, and a single mom related to a date reveal.

Text excerpt expressing doubt and disgust over a woman's behavior in a story about a widow and single mom date.

Image credits: gawsharon

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