Exactly. For me, that's your time - If I ask you out, I plan on paying for you - I want your time. Me paying for the date definitely indicates a respect for your time - I'm hoping, of course, that we have a great time and you enjoy the experience. In any case, I've asked for your time, so I should pay for the date I plan. If the date goes well and I want to see you again, I'll ask - if you feel so compelled by our experience that you want another date, you can ask, too... But a first date, especially, is a bit of an experiment - I'm asking you to take a risk, so I'll cover the cost.