I find it difficult to believe that someone I met last year just screwed with my head just for fun. Do people?

Yes, I do believe in the "small man complex". It is a real and common disease. And yes, seemingly wonderful people do try to manipulate every relationship or acquaintance they have. It is a control issue and a power thing, more so than just a plot to mess with your mind. These people seem to be descent nice people, because that is how they manipulate others so easily. They are suave, charming and helpful in most cases, because that is how they prey on people. Because people are attracted genuinely to these traits. But this is not to say that every one you meet who is charming and sweet is a manipulator. And most of us can not tell the difference until we have been taken advantage of. It happens to many many people every where, it happens to the best of people, because they are the prey. caring loving people who trust others and actually care about them, are the easiest folks to manipulate. Please do not let this one experience cause you to loose your faith in people.