A couple shares food and laughs together.

Woman’s first date turns into chaos, ‘He just spent three years with someone, still texts her, and argued with me about chewing tobacco causing cancer’

Dating can be a minefield, and TikToker @tthinkley shared what she believes may have been her absolute worst first date yet—filled with bad timing, shocking revelations, and a lesson in patience.

@tthinkley

i simply had no choice but to laugh like what 😭😭😭 #fyp #dating #storytime

♬ original sound – therese, ms3

A Date Gone Wrong

Therese Hinkley explained that she recently had knee surgery, which limited her mobility. She arrived at the restaurant suggested by her date, only to find it completely closed. After a brief discussion, they picked a second location, which involved a walk she struggled with, highlighting how little planning can quickly become inconvenient.

Once seated, the date started to unravel. Her companion revealed he was moving to Nebraska for law school in two months—a major disclosure for a first encounter. Then he pulled out a Zyn, asking if it was a dealbreaker, and tried to convince her for several minutes that chewing tobacco has no association with cancer, despite Therese providing her medical perspective.

Red Flags Multiply

Couple enjoying a romantic dinner with wine and delicious meals at a cozy restaurant.
Photo by Jep Gambardella

The conversation continued with Therese learning that her date had just ended a three-year relationship the previous week. He admitted to still being in regular contact with his ex, leaving her feeling uncomfortable and concerned about emotional baggage. When she addressed her doubts, citing distance and lingering comparisons to his ex as dealbreakers, he persisted in offering to drive her home, seemingly oblivious to the warning signs.

Ending With a Mic Drop

Therese called it a night, later responding to him with links to peer-reviewed articles confirming the health risks of smokeless tobacco—a final, classy rebuttal. The experience left her considering a temporary pause from dating apps, but she shared the story online for laughs, providing a mix of horror and entertainment to her audience.

Social Media Reacts

Commenters were quick to weigh in. One user wrote, “I love that you sent the articles as your last word though!!” while others simply reacted with disbelief at the combination of bad timing, ex drama, and the tobacco debate. Many praised her composure and patience throughout the ordeal.

The viral story serves as a cautionary tale about first dates gone wrong, unexpected disclosures, and the importance of standing firm in your boundaries.

More from Decluttering Mom: