Why do women beat around the bush and play mind games?

BradyH
I met this girl last week on Sunday. We were supposed to hang out that Friday but she had some family stuff come up and canceled. Okay, no problem. Fast forward to today I ask her out for ice cream and she originally didn’t reply because I asked her like 30 minutes before the place opened. Then she said “maybe later today.” Haven’t heard since.

I thought she was interested because of how well our conversations flow and how she tells me to text her when I’m not replying, but I’m not stupid because I’ve been in slightly similar situations.

My question is this: why do women beat around the bush and play mind games instead of just saying ‘not today, maybe another time’ or ‘no, I’m not interested.’ There’s nothing stopping them from being upfront so the other person can get on with their life. I know I’m going to get the “women don’t owe you an explanation” response, but why does that justify wasting someone’s time and effort?
Why do women beat around the bush and play mind games?
5 Opinion