On a later date, she went to the bar for water while her friend was in the restroom. A man two stools down gave her enough space to leave the moment alone. Then he said he liked that she had chosen the corner seat instead of the one facing the entrance.

It was specific. That mattered. People who are only fishing for an opening usually reach for a line that could fit anyone. He had watched her settle in, seen the small choice, and said something that proved it. She held his eye contact for one beat longer than polite conversation requires. Her friend returned, took one look at her expression, and raised an eyebrow. No introductions were made, yet the evening had already changed shape.