DEAR HARRIETTE: I had a falling-out with a friend from college. We'd known each other for about four years, but we never had any substantial conversations. We recently ran into each other and had an exchange on social media. On New Year's Day, she texted me and asked what I was up to because she wanted to see me later. When I responded and asked her what she was up to, her response was that she was naked in bed. I got uncomfortable -- usually I receive texts like this from someone I've known well for years, or it's someone trying to flirt with me. I asked to call her, and when we spoke (after some protest from her), I made it clear that I just wanted to be friends and explained that I was a little uncomfortable. She responded by saying that she was not trying to flirt with me, and I would know if she was.
After a few more texts, she decided not to come over, even though I told her she was still welcome to come if she wanted. After thinking about it for a few days, I'm realizing I may have made much ado about nothing, and I'm wondering if I should apologize. What do you think? Did I overreact, or was I within my rights to do what I did? -- Doing The Most, Washington, D.C.
DEAR DOING THE MOST: Trust your instincts. This woman was definitely flirting with you. Had you taken the bait, you would have a completely different story to tell. That you did not required her to save face, so to speak, by acting like it was no big deal that she told you she was naked in bed. Believe me, that is not common conversation for people who are friends, let alone people who are not close. You have no reason to apologize. If you are not interested in her intimately, just move on.