I told her she looked beautiful in her work attire (she did). Was this pursuing? Probably, but set me straight Sandi2 if so. She seemed pleased about the comment.
A compliment can be tricky. There are some LBH's who can pull it off without it appearing to be "kissing up" in a desparate attempt to get her to like him. Not being able to see your face or hear your voice when you told her .....it's hard to know for sure.
Here's my take on the whole body hug, promises of contacts, etc. at the airport. She's thinking she can endure being nice to you for a little while...since you are going over-seas. Once you're out of her hair, then she'll feel free and what can you do over there?
No, that's not very encouraging, is it? So, what will you do when you don't hear anything from her?
It is not about what you feel should work in your M. It is about doing the work that gets the right results. Do what works!