Regardless of whether she was offended or not, I think you worry about things where no concern is needed. I'm very lucky to have some close friends despite my problems, but it hasn't been easy maintaining the relationships. I have trouble dealing with rejection, even if I asks someone if they want to catch up for coffee and they say they're too busy and don't make another date. I've learned now though that people have other stuff going on in their lives. I imagine that the women responding to your ad will also have a bit of social anxiety so their behaviour might not be what you expect. I personally think that Meetups are a better way of meeting people. I was at a comedy show recently and I observed two groups of women who were there as apart of a Meetup and it seemed to be a very inclusive and non-judgmental dynamic. The reason why I think it's a better way of meeting friends is because it's based around an interest rather than the only thing being in common is that you're both shy. You like cats and music so that's two interests already! And everyone likes comedy right!