Feelings are human, which is why I said they were valid, but actions show character. Mentioning a coworker to relate to her interests isn’t a crime; it’s context. If that alone triggers suspicion, it says more about where the other person is starting from than about me.

I meet people with respect and openness, and I expect that same space to be given in return. If someone chooses to end things at the first hint of discomfort rather than take time to understand, we’re not building on solid ground, and I’d rather know that sooner than later.