So promise me only one thing, would you? Just don't ever make me promises

I did it. I took the leap and asked Ray out.

In my initial e-mail I was very cordial: I asked him how his birthday went (he just turned 27) and told him he was one of the few fascinating guys in my senior class. Then I invited him to come see some bands perform at a cafe in Pasadena. I figured it's a nice public space and there's room to get drinks, eat food, wander around. Here was his answer:

Hi [...],
my birthday was cool, thanks.

RE: fascinating... Really? Thanks! You were top 5 smartest students of our class, that's for sure.

RE: Friday, i'll try to make it. Never heard of the place, but catching up would be cool.

Talk to you soon.
-Ray

I was delighted! I replied that evening with one of my favorite memories of him from high school: showing up to 9th grade English with a bloody eye because an errant baseball hit him in the face. Most teenagers would've stayed home in the name of vanity, but not Ray. I also lamented the fact that I didn't apply myself harder to become valedictorian of our class, thus proving to myself that I was a "smart" student. God, I hope that doesn't sound screwed up or conceited...

He wrote back:

Hahaha... Of course I remember [about the baseball incident], don't remind me. That kind of sucked. Being valedictorian is overrated, so don't worry about it. I'll try to make it [on Friday], sounds cool, even if I'm a little late. I hope they have some good green tea, or some earl gray. Or I can be Mexican about the whole thing and ask for 7 Azahares.

I've already got a back up plan. If he cancels on me or stands me up, I'm going to enjoy the music then wander over to my best friend Lauren's house and cry.

Wish me luck. All I want is a connection. I'm not asking for the entire world....just a spark. Just a chance to take something to the next level.