The first red flag

What was the first red flag that you remember? I added the last bit since I know most of us probably missed the first actual signs.

I was 22, he was 29, a DVD box set of Living Planet had just come out and we had bought it and were driving home. I took it out of the bag while we were talking and started opening the plastic wrap around it. I don’t remember the words he used, but he was driving and glanced over and said something like “WOAH STOP THAT, you know I LOVE opening new things” and I deadass thought he was kidding, I laughed and continued peeling the plastic back, and he lost his mind, started shouting at me and driving like a maniac. I was absolutely shocked, and terrified, begging for him to drive safely or let me out, saying that I thought he was kidding [because what 15 year old would act like that, let alone an almost 30 year old man]. He dropped me at my apartment and peeled away, and I went inside totally shocked and crying, like what just happened?!? How could he become so scary! No boyfriend had ever acted even remotely like that with me.

He showed up either later that day or the next with flowers and a fancy espresso machine and profound apologies, and I forgave him. I wish I hadn’t answered the door.