Off topic, but you might need to reset how you read what people say,
Particularly the difference between accurate counting terms and hyperbole.
When people say "no-one was there" they often don't really mean no-one they may just mean it was less busy than expected.
So your 'genuine question' seems more like it isn't a genuine question, but an attempt to pick someone up on their language.
Personally, as someone who just about everyone thinks is 'on the spectrum' I struggle with these things as well, so I don't feel bad about passing on this advice.