Charmed: A Flower Mart fumble, courtroom crushes and more missed connections

Welcome to Charmed, a series of reader-submitted missed connections shared with The Banner. These are almost-love stories — passing glances, shared laughs, moments that lingered just a little too long and made someone wonder about a next time.

Do you think a submission is about you? Your story might not be over yet. Reach out by responding to the form below. We’ll share your message and contact info with the original poster. If they’re interested in connecting with you, they’ll get in touch directly.

No promises, but hey — maybe it’s a match? ❤️

Flower Mart fumble

We ran into each other at Flower Mart. Your friend asked to pet my dog and I didn’t know what to say when I saw you. I yelped “see you around?” and left. You’re a barista at my favorite coffee shop — I complimented your tattoos — and was always wondering if it was just a friendly vibe. Let me know if there is more. And if there isn’t, I would love to get the name of your tattoo artist!

— Clara, 26

Hounds of longing

You: Lonely boy sitting by himself at the Kate Bush listening party.

Me: Long haired girl in cozy sweater, embroidering at the bar. My friend and I were planning on befriending you when you refilled your tea, but you slipped away as “Hounds of Love” was ending! What’s your favorite Kate Bush album?

— Devin, 35

K-pop cupid

Itzy angel: We danced to Itzy’s “Wannabe” together at Club Car on May 1st! It made my whole night, but I didn’t get your name before I had to go. I had so much fun and I’d love to talk to you!

— Clara, 30

Parker, possibly?

Missed connection at The Rockwell (Fells) Saturday April 4. Came for Jason Medina, stayed for the man whose knee I headbutted… 4 times (still your fault, btw). Got pushed near you, upgraded myself to the pew which conveniently brought me next to you. We exchanged jokes and looks, and you told me when your favorite songs came on. I think your name is Parker? I considered asking for your number, but decided you’re attractive, and it probably happens to you all the time. I didn’t want to be like everyone else, which was a terrible choice. And just said goodbye and have regretted it since.

— Margarita, 37

Exhibit A: His smile

I was in court! I was there for my first jury duty experience, and it was kinda crazy. You were bald headed and about the same age as me. We both had our first jury duty. I thought you were cute. You were kinda social and silly, smiley too. I noticed your fly was down and told you to pull your shirt down, then we were in the court security area about to leave. I should’ve asked for your number or Insta.

— Day’shaun, 19

Exhibit B: The books

We were seated next to each other after being called for jury duty. There were like 90 other jurors and you mentioned you were glad you brought a book — I said I brought two after my service last year. I was too worried about being weird to do something normal like ask about your book.

— Christine, 35

Signed, sealed, swooned

I used to work in Charles Village. There’s this UPS guy. He’s super sweet. lightskin to medium brown complexion. Tall, kinda lanky. He would deliver packages to my work. I did not like my job, it stressed me out so much. it was a law firm. Everytime he would come to the office, he’d catch me at bad moments like when i was on the phone or occasionally had food in my mouth or the phone would ring or somebody would need something just as we were talking. I work in Landover now and I‘m not sure if I’ll ever see him again. I even downloaded Hinge to try to find him because I think it geo tracks me and no luck.

— Amelia

Think you’ve had a missed connection? Tell us about it.