I went out of town to visit family. Met up with an old friend from highschool that I haven't seen in at least a year or two.

She was eager to meet and chose the location since I don't know the area. We met and just caught up. The whole time she was giving IOIs but nothing overt. I couldn't tell if they were IOIs or just how she is, so I just kept it casual and didn't escalate.

Most of my methods to escalate are on my turf so it's simple for me to take the lead. Most of my game is at night at clubs and bars making it even easier with dancing and alcohol involved. This was all new territory to me. Day time, casual, no alcohol, not my town, etc.. So I just played it safe (terrible idea I know).

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When she left her demeanor completely changed indicating her IOIs were genuine and not "just how she is". She said she wanted to meet up next time I was in town or if she was out my way she would get ahold of me. Safe meant nothing bad, nothing good, but I didn't polarize and I think I can be in danger of the friend zone. I'm not afraid of that if did happen she would be a great wingman but I think I have one more chance next time I'm in town.

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Any ideas for next time to avoid falling into old habbits being out of my comfort zone? I know my excuses for why I didn't escalate were excuses, and that's why I'm asking for advice.