Hallo^{^} let me try to clear this up as I feel we haven't been 100% on the same page! We consider something to be "trade-stealing" when you attempt to offer for a trade that was not directed at you! In this case, you broke this rule by asking the person offering if they were selling it. Even though OP may have the item, they could still want duplicates! If the person you offered to had negotiated and traded with you, had OP decided they wanted the item, it would be traded away. That's what qualifies trade stealing for us as mods!

I'm so sorry if the rule isn't clear or in-depth enough to clarify that for you! If you would like us to re-word our ruling for more clarity, please suggest that in SIUS this week for mod discussion! If you have any more questions/comments/ please dm us or send it in through mod mail! Sorry for the inconvenience, have a good day! :) -Cece <3