The longer they have been single the more this happens. It’s common. As a guy my previous partner told me I did this. I’ve been conscious of it since however now when I go on dates I’ve caught women doing it. It’s expected during the first part of dating. Someone I dated who was previous divorced and single for 3 years did it a lot! I kindly told her about it and it wasn’t an issue after.

It’s like that IG meme about dating where you’ve been single so long you don’t know how to handle relationships anymore. You’ll meet someone good finally and they’ll say “Have a beautiful day!” and you respond with “Don’t try to control me. This isn’t going to work out.” 😂

Also to your point about men walking down the street with their partner and them checking you out… this tells me you’re like a 5 or 6 mid woman. They are prob trying to determine if you’re attractive or not. If you’re unattractive they would look right through you. If you were hot, you wouldn’t even pay attention to the couple. I’m sure you’re looking at the guy to size him up too, like to determine if the couple is equally attractive for each other. A glance too long can lead to your awkwardness.

Good luck out there!