This has been discussed to death, i'm well aware of that.

However, i would like some tips and pointers if at all possible, without being called out on the aforementioned.

First and foremost: I don't have an issue in approaching and talking to an individual girl, i find that much more straightforward than when they're in packs.

I was at the mall with a friend of mine the other day, eating a gyro at the food court and he says to me "Jimmy, see that groups of girls over at that table, go talk to them". I told him i would after i finished my meal, as i anxiously thought over how i would go over and talk to them.

By the time i finished my meal they'd already parted ways, and left me with regret and blue balls, as well as disproving words from my friend regarding my hesitancy.

My question goes as follows, how does one casually introduce oneself to a group of girls in a public setting, in my case, a table full of 18-22 y/o girls at a food court?

After thinking over it Ad nauseam through another sleepless night i came to the conclusion that the most straightforward way to do it would be to go up to them and offer to show them a magic trick (I know quite a bit of magic), and see where that takes me.

What would you guys recommend in that respect.

ALSO:

How would one go about asking for a phone number? I've found that it's easier to give my phone number but that comes with no guarantee that i get a call/text. Asking "What's your number" comes off as awfully assertive within 15 minutes of meeting someone. Nevertheless, i'm willing to listen to the Red Pill Masters.