Am I the AH for ghosting my crush?

[Anonymous]

So i met this person last year but we did not talk to each other until one day when we had to sit close to each other. They give me their number without me asking and I give them mine in exchange. here's the thing tho. Every time i texted them i was always met with one word replies. This went on for a few days. Not to mention, they did not make an effort to continue the conversation nor start it. It triggered something. Their actions started reminding me of an ex in high school who placed very little effort into their partnerships. I have been single for 2 years and i want the next person to mirror the effort i put in. Seeing this, made me really anxious and defensive. Should I have gone a different route? Should i apologize or just leave this alone? Did I hurt them by my actions or were they hoping i got the hint? I last spoke to them seven months ago. I am asking because I want to improve my communication skills and have an idea on what actions are acceptable when dealing with these types of situations.

[Guy13]

Long term, it’s always best to be upfront. “I know it’s not going to work, however, I wanted to tell you and not simply ghost you.” That B-tch has class in retrospect

[Asker]

I am afraid of rejection I don't know why. I know that this was not going to work out because im 5 years older than them (im24 and he's 20). But yes you are right, communication is key.

[Guy13]

It’s true. I probably tolerate a little craziness because of that rejection thing. It’s in me that thing too…🤷🏻‍♂️