When is a date not a date

[white]

Met someone online not exactly via OLD, via meetup, who shares interest groups and lives in my town. This is a small town. We could technically meet through the shared interest but it requires a long journey. I messaged her out the blue asking if it was worth it going from our town. She said she rarely does and just uses it to see what goes on. I spun it out, went back and forth, I thought she might be receptive, so asked if she wanted to meet locally instead. I didn't characterise it as "to discuss interests", I just wanted to meet her at this point. Anyway, she specifically said she'd like to meet me, here, so I gave number, gave place and date (drinks), she's been positive and we'll be meeting in few days provided she doesn't back out. Barely know anything about each other. Not even ages, only site pics to go off.

 

My problem is, I'm now not sure if this is a date or not. Perhaps she thinks I just want to chat. I'm not even sure I'd have a problem with that, I'm on meetup to socialise after all. She might even be gay (has a gay group listed but it seems to be some sort of combination social group and is also in London so she won't have gone to it). It's happening, and it'll be clear then but I'd kinda like to know what I'm going into, I haven't done it this way before (via the internet or whatever), it's been clear beforehand. It doesn't change what I do either way. My instinct says since she's making the effort and it's just us, she knows what it is. But I don't trust my instincts in my own life anymore, too subjective. Help me out. Have I arranged a date or a 2-person meetup group?

[Lansing]

Just assume it is a friendly outing. If you feel a good vibe from her/enjoy her company then at that point say "hey, I have enjoyed this, how about doing such and such together on wednesday" or whatever.... I know what you are saying... sometimes I wonder if I am hanging out with a girl as a "friend" or if she is interested.

[PlumPrincess]

Consider it to be a friendly meetup. If she thinks you are really awesome she will let you know and then you can arrange a real date, but for now, drop that idea.