So I went out with this very pleasant girl this week. She'd actually told me beforehand that she'd just gotten out of a relationship and that she "wasn't in the right place or frame of mind to go out with anyone". So I took this as a bit of a test/LMR and tell her, in more or less words, "Sure, let's just meet as friends, no strings attached". She agrees.

So I take her out for a few drinks and right off the bat there are crystal clear IOIs. We're making out within an hour or two and that's with me taking my time. I'm literally within an inch of fucking her but we agree to slow down since it's in a bit of a public spot (beach at night time). I'm alright with this, I feel restraint can work to one's advantage too.

As we're walking back I put my arm around her back and she's holding my hand. I tease her a little bit when we're thinking of another meet up asking her why she's so sure she's going to see me again etc etc. She's clearly interested in another date and having a great time.

Anyway, the next day she hits me up with a text saying she's still going through some difficult stuff (getting out of a relationship and some big career challenges right now) and she'd prefer to remain friends. The thing is, I'd known her for a bit beforehand and I know for a fact that this is entirely truthful. However, I did have a fantastic time with her so I was a little disappointed that she backed off again.

I aimed for a little comforting and told her that I'd had a really nice time with her and I didn't mind slowing things down a bit and just grabbing a drink sometime but if she's still not sure about things then I'd just leave her be, but she never replied.

The thing is, considering the quite candid and heavy interest she displayed on the date, is it worth giving this a bit more of an effort to pursue? I'm trying to maintain abundance but I still felt a little bummed that I seemed to be missing out on a decent prospect.