Probed
ALways ALWAYS...whenever entering unfamiliar territory, study the geography to get a sense of what offers an edge. Circling is predator behavior. Never take it nonchalantly. The guy who has your attention isn't the primary threat. The guy who moves laterally while you talk to the decoy is the one to watch. Shift your eyes rather than turning your head to let the decoy know that you're aware of his partner's actions. Look for the closest solid object to get your back against. Watch any group of two or more males to see if their movements seem to be geared to yours. Even something as innocent as crossing the street is a red flag. Two or more males without females is another...though the ladies' presence is no way an indication that all is well.
Keep a spare pack of smokes in the car. When approached for a cigarette or light..toss him the open pack in your pocket with the pack of matches between the celophane and pack...while he is still outside of your personal space. It will distract his attention for a couple seconds, and let you take a more defensive stance. If all he wants is a smoke, he'll understand your
caution and may even toss the rest of your smokes back to you...or not.
If his intentions are more sinister, he'll either ingore the pack or catch it and keep coming. Either way, your move will put him on notice that you're not gonna be an easy mark, which may cause even the "Real Deal" to stand down.
The experienced ones want to take care of business without a fight, too...maybe moreso than the wannabes. As with any predator...getting hurt at "work" isn't good, and is best avoided. A softer target will present itself eventually.
Sounds like ya done good, joab.