(((bella)))

The bigger the risk, the greater the reward. He wouldn't have introduced himself and started to talk to you if he wasn't interested. I'm sure you are a beautiful and kind person, and you deserve good things. You should do what your co-worker says.. just casually give him your number and ask him to call. Just keep it brief and walk away after. He probably did think you weren't interested so he backed off. I know it's hard.. people do get hurt, and sometimes people are cruel and don't care who they hurt, but it's worth the risk to not be alone forever, don't you think? It doesn't have to be totally serious right away, either. If he is interested you can go on some casual dates, or something. People wouldn't compliment you if they didn't mean it, so try not to push people away for that.. I know it's hard, but it's worth it when you find someone who will love you.