The Bait

There are plenty of words out there which have been created to describe (or define) the various ‘relationships’ that people seem to be in nowadays. From the initial idea of friendships (no sexual interest or history), we may progress to ‘flingeaux’ (a fling that becomes a series of flings), ‘interludes’ (like a flingeaux but on purpose, although able to be called off at a moments notice), or perhaps ‘interships’ (when one of you thinks it should be more serious than an interlude). Each label carries with it subtle differences to account for all the small variations of intent and routine. We also seem to have names for some of the situations we may find ourselves in though, such as the 'bait'.

How many of you have hung out with someone, all in the name of friendship - you suppose - only to find that suddenly it feels very much like you’re out on a date? If you have, it is quite possible that in fact, you have been out on a bait. Which is a most appropriate term really if you think about it. It’s that occasion where one person starts to put out a few feelers to see if they can hook someone else and reel them in. When someone wants to lure another towards the idea of being together to see if they’ll bite. It can be a good way to start a relationship but more often than not it’s a little awkward, especially if the object of those attentions would rather they were all directed elsewhere - when the baitee actually wants to hang a sign on their door saying ‘gone fishin’...’, and disappear.

The bait is largely recognisable when everything is going fine but then you get that strange pause or maybe the conversation gets a little too personal. It could be with someone you’ve known for years or maybe someone you’ve just met but the atmosphere shifts and you’re pretty sure that whomever you’re with, they’re not looking at you as just a mate anymore. When its not the answer to your hearts desire, it can be a rather uncomfortable situation. No matter which side you are on. Well, that is if you’re not an insensitive clod that can’t move more than three feet from a mirror without having apoplexy. Although perhaps more difficult than finding yourself on a bait however, is not actually knowing when you’re on one.

I did find some ‘bait’ signs a while ago though, which might possibly help out in future. Apparently girls, you should watch out for: 1) When it’s the first time you’ve ever seen his hair combed. 2) When you think you must have a stain on the front of your v-necked blouse because he keeps staring at that area…a lot. 3) When he wants to pay for at least 55% of the evening’s expenses every time. 4) When he wants you to know how single and available he is, but that there are many other women who might very well be interested in him-soon. 5) When he offers to let you try his drink (from his glass) or his entrée (from his fork). Then of course there’s also your gut instinct.

Unfortunately, none of these signs are actually fool-proof but if nothing else, you may just know that somebody wants you.