What to say after hey

'Hey' is fine. It is not a crime, it is just an empty cup. If you want a real conversation, fill it with something answerable: an observation, a question, a tiny opinion, or a playful challenge.

Casual ways to continue

• ·'Hey! How’s your week actually going?'
• ·'Hey, what has been the best part of your day so far?'
• ·'Hey — I need a distraction. Tell me something mildly interesting.'
• ·'Hey! I just found the most divisive food take and need your opinion.'
• ·'Hey, did you survive [thing he mentioned]?'

Flirty ways to continue

• ·'Hey yourself. Is this your best opening?'
• ·'Hey :) I was wondering when you’d show up.'
• ·'Hey stranger. What trouble are you getting into?'
• ·'Hey — be honest, did you miss me a little?'
• ·'Hey. I have a question, but you have to answer honestly.'

If he only ever says hey

You can give him one conversational ramp. But if every exchange begins and ends with you providing the personality, stop upgrading a low-effort opener into a full evening of labor. Someone interested can meet you with a question, a joke, or a plan eventually.

The best follow-up to 'hey' is one you would be happy to send even if it does not become a love story.

Want an opener that sounds more like you than a list on the internet? Reply or Run can help write one from the actual context. And if you are starting from a crush-sized panic spiral, read how to text your crush.

When to stop trying to rescue the conversation

If you send a useful follow-up and get another bare 'lol,' 'yeah,' or nothing, you have your answer for today. You do not need to prove you are fun enough to talk to. End on a normal note, let the conversation rest, and see whether he ever brings something of his own. A good chat has two people carrying it.

• ·One dry reply: normal; change the subject or leave it there.
• ·A dry pattern: lower your investment and stop writing the script for both of you.
• ·A real re-engagement from him: meet it warmly if you want to, but keep reading the overall pattern.