Advice on a Feint Situation

[Water Bob]

This is why there is a feat called "Improved Feint". Note however that even though the Barlo seems to have denied Able the opportunity to carry through on his feint, Able's feint did have the effect of convincing Barlo to withdraw instead of attacking. So it still had a positive effect for Able, depending on how you look at it.

That's a good point. Use the Feint for another goal besides an easier hit. Use it, and if the foe Withdraws, charge 'em if you can. If you can't, you've got the option to take off.

Able would have certainly left and tried to cease the combat.