I was amazed to discover the actions of each couple mirroring the other although they were tables apart. All it needed was a third couple to make this a scientific experiment.

First the girls lean forward, trying to strike up a conversation. The man leans to the left and responds. At last the waiter arrives, someone who (much to the relief of the date-ees) does not need impressing and with which a preset conversation is in place. They order their drinks. When it arrives they will probably have a Diet Coke and Mountain Dew respectivly.

A moment of silence is followed by a comment on the drinks. Thankfully the waiter comes again to relieve the tension. Food is ordered (salad for her and bacon cheese burger for him).

Now arrives the dreaded time of waiting. Both know that had there been but one or two more companions they would not be so stuck for words. The girl leans forward again. She talks fakely and animatedly while, unthinking, she stirs her ice around. The boy responds, his back against the chair, head to the side, an image of composure. He begins to stir his drink. The Duel of the Ice is recognized by both parties. She takes a sip, he takes a gulp. And they wait for the distraction of food.