Hi all,
I’m struggling to make sense of this situation.
I’d been chatting with a coworker for a few weeks—friendly, flirty, and lighthearted. About a week ago, I asked her to hang out, and she mentioned things were complicated with her ex. I said we could see where things go if that ever changes.
This week, she’s been making an effort to cross paths—taking the same walk into work and matching my lunch break. Yesterday, she messaged asking what I was doing for lunch. I replied I was going for a walk (as usual), and she joked I was copying her.
On the walk, I saw her ahead and messaged something playful to avoid any misunderstandings. When we crossed paths, she joked—somewhat seriously—that I should keep walking the other way, which felt like a jab or even a suggestion I was being creepy.
When I asked about it, she deflected, saying I took it the wrong way. I tried to clarify that I was just respecting her wishes, especially since we’re coworkers, but she made it out like I was overreacting.
Since then, she’s continued the playful tone, but honestly, the comment didn’t sit right with me. I’m now thinking of backing off, as it felt disrespectful and made me seem like I was in the wrong for even bumping into her?
Any thoughts?
TL;DR:
Had a flirty dynamic with a coworker who mentioned things were complicated with her ex. She’s been going out of her way to cross paths with me, but made a comment that implied I was being creepy—even if said jokingly. I tried to clarify, but she brushed it off and kept things playful. Now I’m feeling disrespected and thinking of stepping back.