He’s torn between compassion and honesty, and that’s a painful place for anyone to be. He cares about her deeply that’s obvious from how scared he is of hurting her but physical attraction isn’t something a person can simply will back into existence. Pretending everything is fine only builds resentment, widens the emotional gap, and ultimately harms her more in the long run. What April suggested was the healthiest path: gentle honesty. Not cruelty, not blame just truth delivered with care. A relationship can only survive if both people feel desired, secure, and wanted. If he’s denying those feelings on his side, the foundation is already cracking.
There’s also something important in how he responded to the other commenter. He’s not indifferent, and he’s not shallow he’s frustrated because he feels stuck between loyalty and his own needs. That’s why honesty is his way out, even if it’s terrifying. When someone’s sensitive about a topic, it’s tempting to protect them with silence, but sometimes silence is the most painful lie. Telling her the truth gives her the chance to decide whether she wants to make changes and gives him the clarity he needs about whether the relationship can realistically continue.
