Hi Sue, Remember on the basic rules of DBing. Do what works that draws them closer to you and over time what works changes.
One of simplest and strongest elements of what draws them closer is ... enjoying each other's company. Once you achieve the stage where they appear to be no longer trying to pull away from you, then you need to start exploring ... do you each enjoy being with one another. I do believe you are at this stage. He has expressed interest by calling more now, wanting to spend time at certain events with you. The more exposure, the more chances of enjoying each others company, the more he enjoys it, the more he will want to be around you and it becomes a snowball effect.
So long as when you intiate contact that you continue to ask him if he wants to, then take his answers at face value. Respect his choice and he will not feel any adverse pressure being applied by you. In time as you build those enjoyable moments, I think you won't have to keep asking, because he will be asking you first.
I believe your taking the right path, Sue. As long as they are comfortable with it, there is nothing wrong with a little friendly persuit.
