She hands me a folder, and I open it to find a number ofquestions staring back at me.
If you could go anywhere tomorrow, where would you go?
What did you learn from past relationships?
What are some key values or traits you want in a relationship?
The list goes on.
‘Fill them out as if you were a prospective client searching for your perfect match,’ Sadia continues. ‘What are you looking for? Why? How have your experiences in the past shaped you? And when you know that, all that’s left to figure out is who will be your eternal partner. Sound good?’
I swallow the lump in my throat. These questions are intense and I’m not exactly in a place to lay my heart on the table, but if this is what Sadia wants, then I guess that’s what I’ll do.
‘Yes, of course,’ I respond with a strained smile.
‘Got it,’ Salman adds.
‘Excellent! There’s quite a few questions and I want you to really think about them as you answer, so take an hour or so. Dig deep!’ Sadia winks at us before leaving for her office.
I inhale deeply and look at the form in front of me.
This is going to be fine. All I have to do is answer the questions truthfully. Even though I’m not looking for anybody right now, it’s only an exercise. It’s just so I can know the types of question Mum will have to fill out when she eventually applies.
I put in my earbuds, Sabrina Carpenter blasting through on max volume, as I read the questions. I fill out my answers, my heart in my throat, and when I’m done, my gaze automatically lands on Salman. He’s also got his headphones on, a bulky over-ear pair, and is scribbling away on his sheet of paper. Even though I know I shouldn’t care, I can’t help but wonder what his answers are – and if any of his responses are about me.
Client Questionnaire
Here at Eternally Yours we know that dating can be difficult, but it can also be exciting, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to be helping you on your quest to locate your perfect match. We’ve designed this questionnaire to help us get to know you so that we can find prospective partners who align with your needs, goals and energy. It’s not just about finding someone who fits you; it’s also about you fitting somebody else. Maybe this person won’t be your most compatible match on paper, but they may have the potential to challenge you in meaningful ways. Take your time to fill it out but don’t overthink it – there are no wrong answers!
Full name
Poppy Rahman
If you could go anywhere tomorrow, where would you go?
Edinburgh. What isn’t there to love? There’s the architecture that can transport you back in time, whether it’s Georgian or Gothic. The bookshops and libraries. The university (that’s where Baba and Ma met).
What are your deal-breakers (habits, beliefs, etc.)?
Somebody who changes their behaviour overnight.
What did you learn from past relationships?
That I don’t always pick the right guy?
What are some key values or traits you want in a relationship?
I just want them to be honest with me. To not pull the rugfrom underneath my feet. To not leave suddenly without giving me any warning.
How would your closest friends describe you in three words?
Caring. People-pleaser.
How do you like to be supported by a partner?
I just want the support to be there in the first place. I don’t want to have to worry about whether or not this is going to be the day they suddenly decide they don’t have feelings for me any more.
What are your greatest hopes and/or fears about dating?
