(*smile*) I've always hated eating alone in a restaurant, so I never did it while I was single. I just didn't enjoy it. So I've been there, and I would take you up on the offer if I were closer. Heck even now that have a romantic partner, I have had to accept that she can not be in the presence of Chinese food and maintain an appetite, so I'd probably still offer to eat with you, if the interest was there. :) Should I ever get out to California, I'll let you know. ;)

But you've got me awfully curious which of the possibilities you've outlines describes your situation.