I grew up in an era when men were required to make the first move, and women would play games with their responses. "No" could mean "never," "no for now but maybe later," "I want to say yes, but have to say no for some cultural reason," etc.

I'd like a time when a person of any gender can say, "I find you interesting. Want to explore that?" then deal with the answer.

"Yes? Cool!"

"No? OK, we can go forward as friends, acquaintances, or people who just met once. Have a nice day!"