Hi. I'm pretty new here, I've been reading. I have to speak here though.

First, Sweepy, I am so sorry this happened.

Second: Silence is not consent. Silence is *never* consent. Consent means asking and hearing a "yes".

What he did was assault, because he never even bothered to ask, and making moves on someone who is clearly in distress - without asking - is predatory.

It might not make the criteria of legal assault, but our legal system is as messed up about this issue as the rest of our culture is about sexuality and consent in general.

Take care of yourself, Sweepy, and don't blame yourself too much. No can be hard to say, but no one should EVER pursue contact without a yes.