Dear Meredith,

One rainy day a few weeks ago, after getting out of class, I decided that I wanted to take an Uber to my internship to avoid the downpour, so I requested an UberPool. I got in the back and found a guy, an upperclassman from my school, heading to his internship as well. Normally, I don’t bother talking to those I share Ubers with, but I made an effort to engage when he started asking questions, and he turned out to be quite charming. I decided halfway through the ride that I’d take a chance and give him my number, but before I could offer it, he gave me his and told me to keep in touch.

I texted him the next morning, a Friday, but I did not receive a response until Monday afternoon, and while light-heartedly apologizing, he claimed that he was celebrating his birthday and that he’s been on a digital cleanse where he avoids using his phone. I was apprehensive but gave him the benefit of the doubt, responding a few hours later, trying to engage him in conversation. This was eight days ago, and I have received no response. With each passing day, I feel like the future becomes more and more bleak. At this point, I know I should move on, but part of me wants to believe that there is some legitimate reason (such as that aforementioned cleanse) for him to not respond. I believe we did hit it off during that short ride. I’m left to wonder why I haven’t heard anything back. I want to send a followup text to see if he’s still there, but I’m also aware of the implications of double texting a guy, especially since our interaction has been so brief. Meredith, what is your read of the situation? Would you recommend I go ahead and reach out again, or should I just wait it out, and what would I say?

– Car Talk