Flirting is a common thing between people who are romantically interested, even if that interest is one-sided.

However, people sometimes might be called to flirt with someone with whom they have absolutely no romantic interests. The reasons could vary. They might be trying to butter the target of the flirting up in order to get a favor from them. Or perhaps it's to serve as a distraction. In some cases it might be to ply them for information. And in some cases it might be a setup for a cruel prank. The reasons ultimately don't matter, just so long as the person is flirting for the sake of a goal other than romance. ...