why do I need constant reassurance

He texted me while I was on my way home from our first date. Six hours together, conversation that never felt forced, and chemistry that built until we were making out at the end. I’d chosen not to go back to his place. As I left, my phone buzzed: he said he’d had a great time and would be thinking about me. We exchanged a few more messages about a show we both liked.

During the date, I told him my next free evenings would be Wednesday and Friday, since I work most nights. Monday morning, I texted him. We had a short exchange, nothing major. On Tuesday, I texted again, asking when would be best to meet up this week, and mentioned how hard it was to schedule. He replied that Friday could definitely work. That was it.

Then nothing. Two days. No texts.

My anxiety started to build. I’m someone who usually texts every day—not all day, but enough. When we’d first planned to meet, his replies hadn’t been super consistent, but this felt different. I started to wonder: was he not interested? Or is this just how some people are? My friends couldn’t agree. Some said not to worry, that it’s normal. Others said it might mean he isn’t that into me.

I drafted one: “will I be lucky enough to see you tonight or am I pushing my luck?” I couldn’t decide if it was playful or if it would make me look desperate. I didn’t want to come off as too eager. Or worse, like I was chasing someone who wasn’t interested.

So I didn’t text.

Friday morning, he texted. He said he was trying to nail down a plan and asked what time I was off work.

I thanked the group for their advice.