The pickup: She's sitting reading graphic novel. I go up and say "What are you reading?" Conversation ensues. Her friend shows up. I talk with him for a while. He goes to order a drink, I tell her I think she's cute, that I want to take her out ___day night. She says yes, gives me number.

The date: We meet, she's sitting and I walk up and say hi. I changed the venue (compliance test). I was sure to stay in close proximity, and was physical from the very beginning (mostly arm and lower back). We get coffee, then lunch, then walk to a few bookstores, then frozen yogurt, making decent conversation the whole time. Kino escalates to where my hand is on her lower back/leg for the majority of the time during conversation. It's time for me to go. I take her by the hand and say "So, what do you think? Do you want to see me again?" She hesitates and says we can't be more than just friends. I take it like a champ, asked her out of curiosity what she WAS looking for. More conversation, we part ways. She legitimately wants to be friends and wants to introduce me to a male friend of hers who has similar interests.

What I learned: Standing/sitting pretty close to the person makes kino MUCH easier and less awkward!

There was a natural climax point in the kino at a book store where I think I could have gone for a kiss. Next time if it reaches that stage, I think I would go for it.

Don't pay for everything unless you're willing to feel fuckin pissed if at the end she opts out.