Signal library: read behaviour, not tea leaves
Research shows people readily overestimate others' interest (error management theory, Haselton & Buss 2000). So the rules here are: read clusters rather than single cues, and behaviour rather than imagination. When unsure, ask politely.
Investment
She is letting you into her life.
Look for consistency over weeks, not one-offs.
One of the most reliable signals.
"Some other time" with no alternative is usually a soft no.
Investment is mutual.
Reply speed depends on schedules; content matters more.
Conversation
Curious about you as a person.
Polite people ask too, so read it alongside other signals.
She wants to be understood.
Signals investment, not consent to anything physical.
In person
She is enjoying it.
When she says she needs to go, see her off.
Comfort and interest.
Single body-language cues are often misread.
You made her feel safe.
A comfort signal, not a green light to escalate.
Signals to stop
She wants to end the conversation.
Exit politely: "I'll let you go, have a good day."
You may be too close or too fast.
Step back too, and slow down.
Take it at face value.
Don't probe or argue.
It means no.
There is no "token resistance." If unsure, stop and ask.