Had a guy invite me out to what seemed like an open, group hangout. It turned out to be a close friends hangout, plus me. It felt date-esk as he opened doors and tried to pay. Im not looking for anything romantic, and a younger me would have just let them continue to pursuit me without clarity. I used to justify this with, "if they arent brave enough to seek clarity, ill just let them be nice to me and take it as friendly actions." Now that im older, I dont like being unclear, nor did I like feeling as though there were alterior motives to their actions. The next time they asked to hang out, I asked if it was with romantic or platonic intentions. I was honest with him that i wasnt looking for romantic, and he thanked me for it. I hope we can still be friends, as we've only known eachother for less than a month, and only had probably 2 or 3 conversations. I feel good about the situation I think? I didnt want to be mean about this at all, just clear.

@Carmen Segovia yes! Ive found detachment comes in waves with the water taking a little bit each time.

Happy to be here!