Let's Meek Plans

A guy I did some juvenile "dating" with back in junior high is stopping by my workplace. The thing is, he doesn't ask me out; he just keeps coming by and hanging around. I'd like this to come to some sort of conclusion so I can stop wondering what his intentions are.

--Perplexed

Loitering is a misdemeanor, not a form of seduction. The guy probably has the hots for you -- accompanied by all the mojo of your stapler or the fake plant on your credenza, both of which have also lingered in your workplace but have failed to ask you out. Of course, you may be part of the problem. The flip side of Today's Wimp is the woman sits there like a paperweight instead of flirting to let a guy know it's safe for him to make a move. Sure, you could ask your fragile petunia out. But, it's a really bad idea. The guy who overcomes his shyness for you isn't likely to take you for granted in a relationship like the wimpy guy you reward by taking over and doing the asking. Assuming you have flirted, the conclusion you should come to is clear: If you want the guy to make himself useful, hand him a time card and a broom.