Dear Annie: I have a friend who I met when we were classmates, and I hadn’t seen him in years. We finally got together, with me going to his residence, and we had a good time. Afterward, no call or text from him. When we do talk, it’s me making the call.
Three months after I visited, his brother passed. He did contact me to let me know. Upon the passing, I offered my home for him to stay for the funeral, which was in my town. Another three months passed with no contact, and I didn’t call.
Three months later, he called, saying he was coming to town for another reason. Again, I offered my home. I tried my best to be a good hostess. He told me he would be back to visit in a couple of months but then later stated he was going out of town during that time. He says I’m a nice person but the four-hour drive is a conflict. What are your thoughts on this? I feel that he’s manipulating me. I need a response.
Dear Woman Who Cares: I feel that your instincts are correct. This guy’s flakiness and lack of communication would not translate well into a relationship. Sure, he enjoys your company, but he said it himself: He’s not willing to commit to someone who lives four hours away.Dear Annie: After 10 long years of dating, my boyfriend proposed to me. I am happy, but things are awkward with his family. There has never been an effort to make me feel welcome.
After years of complaining, he finally asked his mother, and she admitted she never liked me and I’m a big mistake. He was very heartbroken. He and I are sticking with each other and our dreams. One of his dreams is for his family to be more accepting. He plans to invite them to our wedding. I will not say no or tell him it displeases me, but I don’t want them there.
“How Can I Forgive My Cheating Partner?” is out now! Annie Lane’s second anthology -- featuring favorite columns on marriage, infidelity, communication and reconciliation -- is available as a paperback and e-book. Visit
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