This is a thoughtful, well-reasoned take on the matter, Anne, but you might be over thinking it. Here's what "no romance" screams to me: "I'm cheap, lazy, and selfish. Don't expect common courtesies or a free meal." This guy doesn't understand that just because hookers refer to johns as "dates" doesn't mean that's what dating apps are for, although there are apps specifically for that. At least he's being honest. It reminds me of that old Jeff Foxworthy routine about how women are always wondering what men are thinking when there's no need to wonder. He says men are simple. What they're thinking is: "I want a beer, and I want to get laid."