The question after “I’m fine”

“How are you?” “Fine. You?” You both keep moving. Later you wonder whether there was more you could have asked, especially after the difficult week your friend mentioned.

If you have time to listen, try something specific: “How did the first day back go?” The question can be easier to answer than an invitation to summarize an entire life.

They may want to talk about lunch instead. Do not treat a brief answer as a secret you must uncover. Warmth can include respecting what someone does not want to discuss.

“I have some time this afternoon if you want company” is more concrete than an unlimited promise. Offer a window you can keep and a form of contact they can use.

Share something ordinary from your own day too. The aim is a conversation with room inside it, where difficult things may be spoken and lighter things are welcome as well.