Today I visited a shop and a lovely young woman, non-native English greeted us [was with DS2].
Later, noticed an older man talking to her about her weekend plans, specifically valentines plans and repeatedly looking down at her chest. I heard comments such as "sure someone must be taking you out", "you're clearly very worthy" etc...
I went over and interrupted, asking for her help. When she broke free and asked what I wanted, I said "nothing, he was just being creepy". I had hesitated interrupting for a minute later than intended due to trying to check whether she did feel uncomfortable, but she was being nothing but polite and friendly back. When I replied to her to say I wanted nothing, I was just interrupting because he was being creepy, she hugged me and said, yes, thank you. And repeated that twice.
I now regret not stepping in a moment sooner. And also, not saying more loudly when I interrupted, so the man could hear.
Would you have stepped in?
Would you have said anything loudly so the man could overhear?
It's stayed with me. Younger me remembers these interactions. Felt uncomfortable, brushed them off, entertained them.
Nowadays, being older, happy to intersect.
Hoping to bring my boys up to never repeat this behaviour.
AIBU: Should not interrupt/jump in
AINBU: Should always jump in and help younger/fellow females?