I have been pondering your response, Jessica Wildfire. I think age might have a role in this, too.

It feels like being in my 40s (combined with my personality, having a kid, and having processed my divorce thoroughly) contributes to my desire not to waste a lot of time on someone who is not a good fit/incompatible/not looking for what I’m looking for.

That adds up to wanting to show and be shown a certain amount of interest — a piece of that is communication via text.

If I were in my 20s, I might feel differently (i.e., be more relaxed) about the magical 48-hour window.

Thank you for reading and responding!