Playbook 101

Laksa is yummy but it doesn’t seem to agree with me. I’m at home now trying to calm my stomach while cursing myself for having Laksa as my first meal of the day. It’s not my typical Sunday lunch fare but the events that led me to Katong Laksa for my lunch was. It all started last night when I first noticed G saying hello to a friend of mine. G looks like a shorter version of Dennis Trillo. Google the name and you'll see why my interest was piqued. When his eyes focused on me, I put my game in play....

First Gear: The Eye Contact

Make an obvious double take, hold for 2-3 seconds, start a knowing smile, look down at/swirl drink, look back at subject while still smiling then take a sip of your drink. If he’s still staring, tip your head, raise the glass slightly as if making a toast. Well, go ahead and practice. Never fails.

Second Gear: Disappear

Make an excuse to go elsewhere in the bar. Either go to the loo, or have a ciggy, or plant yourself somewhere else to greet other friends. Oh yes, it pays to know other hi-hello people. Wait awhile then head back to where you were before. If he is paying attention, he would have made mental notes on where to find you later if you disappear again. Keep smiling.

Third Gear: Socialize

Talk to other people without looking too cozy. Have a chuckle. Make jokes. Flash your friendly smile to other people. This tells him that you’re approachable. Then look at him again, change your smile to a come hither one.

Fourth Gear: Reel In

Move around a bit to close the gap between you and your target. He’ll switch his place in your group so he can be next to you and someone drunk enough. Drunken antics of people are surefire openers…. He’ll definitely make a comment to strike up a conversation with you…

The rest is up to you.

G was a standard play. Youngish. Eager. Happy to get attention from someone he fancies.

He lives in the east where the popular Katong Laksa is. Hence, the mild tummy ache this afternoon.