“Lol” can also be used just to acknowledge someone or something they said or to indicate a laid-back or chill vibe.
If you just told them about the ridiculous costume your mom bought for her dachshund and they replied with “lol,” say something like “You have got to see poor Pepper in this hot dog costume! It’s hilarious!”
Say “So anyway, how was your day?” “Got any fun plans this weekend?” or “Your turn! What’s the best joke you’ve heard?”
Don’t worry if the conversational naturally dies out! You can always pique your crush’s interest later with a new message. Give them a compliment or ask about something that’s meaningful to them (from the lasted Drake single to the latest Dodgers game).