Choose something easy to say yes to
A short coffee, a busy daytime market or a walk in a familiar public place can be enough. The plan does not have to prove how interesting you are. It should give both people a comfortable chance to talk.
Agree on a meeting point and a rough time, then ask one practical question: “Does that place work for you?” Noise, access, budget and travel can matter. You can make room for those needs without asking someone to disclose a private reason.
Keep your own way home
Arrange transport you control and tell a trusted person where you are going. Keep your phone charged and your belongings with you. Avoid starting with a home address or a location where leaving would be difficult.
A shared favourite spot is a nice conversation starter. It is not permission to turn up unexpectedly or work out someone’s regular schedule. Make the meeting an explicit plan.
An hour can be a complete date
You are allowed to enjoy a conversation and still head home when planned. You are also allowed to leave early if you are uncomfortable. A first meeting does not create an obligation to continue somewhere else.
Afterwards, a clear message is kinder than an elaborate explanation you do not mean. “I enjoyed meeting you and would like to do it again” is enough when it is true. So is a respectful no when it is not.
Maybe you’ve already crossed paths.