What to say to a guy asking me out after not hearing from him for a month?

[Anonymous]

A guy who I was talking to has asked me out on a date after I haven’t heard from him for a month.

I was originally really into him but overtime he stopped putting in effort and it was constantly left to me to initiate conversations and dates. I don’t mind doing that at all but I need some effort to be reciprocated in order for me to remain interested. So I decided to stop talking to him and it didn’t seem like he noticed my absence at all until now.

I’ve replied to his message and said “Thanks for the offer but I think I’m okay. All the best tho :)” But he's responded asking why I’m saying no.

Should I:
(A) Explain my reasons and give him another chance.
(B) Explain my reasons but don’t give him another chance.
(C) Just say I’m no longer interested and leave it at that.

Any advice on how to handle this would be great.

[MzAsh]

This used to be the issue I had with quite a few guys. And they always come back!
Anyway, I’d explain your reasons and give him a 2nd chance. But I’d try to avoid sounding like a lecture. Instead something like, “well, I just thought you weren’t interested so I backed away.”
That lets him know that it’s his level of effort and perceived interest that is being evaluated by you and you act accordingly. But it doesn’t sound blaming as if to say “well you weren’t putting in effort sooo” which would likely sound like you’re bringing down the hammer on him.

[boggboss]

Explain the reasons and see what he has to say how can u decide what your gonna do when no hearing his input first

[Wise4myage]

A. Explain my reasons and give him another chance.

[Asker]

Can I ask why you think I should give him another chance? I do still like the guy but I don’t want to waste my time again.

[Wise4myage]

I think everyone deserves a second chance.

[Interstate]

B & C