You feel dazzled, special in their presence
After one dinner you're sure you've met someone extraordinary, and they seem to find you extraordinary too.
Rule out first
They may really be exceptional. You may be in a lonely or vulnerable phase. The chemistry may be mutual and real.
What could explain it
Halo effect: One brilliant quality (looks, success, wit) is colouring everything; you can't name a weakness.
Selfobject needs: mirroring, idealising, twinship (Kohut): They mirror you in a way you've long needed, and you feel more yourself with them; the pull is about you.
Love bombing: Intense attention, flattery and future-talk very early, with pressure to commit or give something quickly.
Psychopathy: The charm is fluent but there's nothing behind the eyes; stories don't quite add up and they're vague about their past.
Hypomanic (manic) character: Their energy and certainty are infectious, but they're like this with everyone and you're swept up rather than seen.
Perceived partner responsiveness (Reis): They're genuinely responsive: they remember what you said accurately and act on it, and it holds over months when you've nothing to offer. It's rare enough to feel like magic. If it peaks early and comes with requests, look at love bombing.
A next move
Slow it down. See whether the dazzle survives a few weeks of ordinary contact, a 'no', and their old colleagues' accounts. Pressure to move fast is the main warning sign.
If it’s you
What did I need to feel that they made me feel?