How long should I wait before asking my newly single friend out?

[Anonymous]

Around a week ago I texted my friend (that I met through a dating app) just to catch up on things and she told me that she was seeing someone else. When I first met her she was in a long distance relationship and was looking for friends so I never asked her out. She told me she was officially seeing someone else and left that other guy. I was happy for her because her ex would neglect her really bad. Today she texted me saying she broke up with her boyfriend and I said “maybe you and I can go back to texting to get to know each other and then maybe one day go out?” And she said “as friends sure”. Then she said “😭 I'm JUST getting out of a relationship can you give me some time”. To which I apologized. I asked her how she was feeling and she said she was feeling depressed. I asked if she wanted to talk about it and she said “not really but I appreciate it”. Now I’m curious because I don’t know how long to wait?

[Oliverlogan263]

Here's what I would do in your situation:

I'd give your friend some space for now. Breakups can be rough, even if the relationship wasn't great. She just needs time to process things and heal emotionally. I'd say wait at least a month before asking her out or bringing up the possibility of dating again. In the meantime, you can just check in occasionally to see how she's doing as a friend. Send her a funny meme or ask if she wants to grab a coffee just to chat. Don't pressure her or make her feel like you're waiting in the wings. Let her make the first move if/when she's ready to start dating again. She'll appreciate that you're respecting her boundaries. After a month or so, if things seem like she's in a better place, you could gently ask if she'd be open to grabbing dinner sometime. But don't push it - let her set the pace. Her wellbeing should be the priority for now. Hope this helps man! Just be patient and supportive.

[Zestyassmf1997]

I think she’s stringing you along. I’d step away from the situation.

[laly520]

whenever u notice she is ready for a relationship

usually it takes me few months to be fully available emotionally

[laly520]

takes em*

[Asker]

Do you think I would have to worry about someone asking her out in the meantime while I'm waiting?

[laly520]

not really