Like the post says. For context, I’m a 32M who got out of a long-term relationship back in March, and I recently started putting myself out there again. I’m also a university student.

Anyway, I recognized a girl from my class sitting on a bench. We’d had a tiny interaction before nothing major so I walked up and said her name like, “It’s Sam, right?” (not her real name). I asked if she always had freckles, and we had a short conversation. She asked if I’d always had my tattoo, and we ended up talking about that too since I just got it a week ago (full sleeve wing tattoo, if you’re curious). She mentioned she wants tattoos as well and what she would like . Class started, so we went in.

A few days later, I was studying in the same spot. She walked by with a friend, we noticed each other, so I said, “Hey Sam,” and she replied, “Hey OP.” We talked about her presentation that day and how nervous she was.

After class, a couple of us were joking that we all needed to grab lunch now that presentations were done. Later, she and I ended up walking to the parking garage together, and the conversation felt really natural. I learned she’s helping with a psychology survey. I got her number and texted:

Me: “Hey Sam, I definitely want to learn more about the study. Let’s hang out soon.” Her: “Totally! We could also talk when we have our group dinner after Thanksgiving break :))”

Now I’m sitting here wondering if she curved me and was just being nice, or if she meant, “Hey, we can hang out AND also talk more at the group dinner.”

I’ve been out of the game for seven years, so maybe I’m just putting too much pressure on myself. Some outside perspective would help. And if this isn’t a rejection, I’m not totally sure what my next move should be. Idk I've been out of the game for 7 years and and just putting too much pressure on myself, so some external insight would be helpful.

If I'm not getting rejected I don't know what to do next so that would also be helpful