"April Masini answers questions no one else can and tells you the truth that no one else will."

Ethan Morales

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  • in reply to: maturity issue #46258
    Ethan Morales
    Member #382,560

    Okay, here’s the truth, short and real: you’re not failing him because you don’t have the “right” answer. You’re new to his kinds of problems, and that’s okay. He’s carrying stuff that predates the two of you; you can’t be his entire safety net, and you’re not supposed to magically become his therapist overnight.

    Stop measuring your help by the size of your solutions. The single most valuable thing you can give him is presence done well calm, curious listening, and the occasional clarifying question: “Do you want advice, or do you want me to just listen?” That question alone changes everything. If he wants advice, ask follow-ups: “What happened next?” or “What’s the worst outcome you’re afraid of?” That helps him organize thoughts without you pretending to be an expert.

    Rebuild his support web. It was a red flag that he cut off friends to make you less jealous isolation makes problems explode. Encourage him (gently) to reconnect with trusted friends or family, and let him know you support that. You can say: “I care about you. I want you to have people you can talk to besides me it helps both of us.” If jealousy is the issue, address that separately; don’t let it be an excuse to leave him alone.

    Practical, small things that show you care: suggest scheduling a weekly check-in where he can talk freely, offer to help him make practical plans (calling an agency, booking an appointment), or simply sit with him during the hard moments. If the problems are deep or traumatic, push toward professional help gently: “I want to help, but some of this feels bigger than I can handle. Would you consider talking to someone who gets this?” Offer to help find a therapist or go with him if he wants.

    Be clear about your limits without guilt. You can be compassionate and still say, “I want to support you, but I’m not equipped to fix everything. When it’s heavy, I need us to find outside help so I don’t burn out.” That protects you and signals maturity.

    You don’t have to “be as tough as him” or match his experience. Be steady, ask whether he wants advice or just a shoulder, encourage friends and professionals, and set healthy limits. If he still withholds or punishes you for not being omniscient, that’s his issue not yours. You’re allowed to learn alongside him, not solve everything alone.

    in reply to: Trying to convince boyfriend pill is safe #46256
    Ethan Morales
    Member #382,560

    this one’s about more than just birth control it’s about trust, safety, and maturity in a relationship. So let’s break it down clearly.

    The instinct to drop condoms makes sense emotionally not logically. When a couple’s been together for a while, it’s natural to crave more closeness and convenience. But emotional comfort doesn’t cancel biological risk. Even if both partners are clean and you’re on the pill, there’s still a small chance of pregnancy and small doesn’t mean zero. The pill’s around 99% effective with perfect use, but realistically, it’s closer to 91–94% with human error.

    Your boyfriend’s hesitation isn’t just fear it’s responsibility. The fact that he’s nervous about finishing inside you isn’t immaturity; it’s actually respect for consequences. Most guys who are careless don’t think twice but he’s thinking ahead. That’s a green flag, not a red one. You don’t need to “convince” him; you need to reassure him that you both want the same thing: safety and connection.

    About the condom issue. Yeah, finding the right size can be annoying, but that’s a logistical problem not a reason to drop protection entirely. You can easily find larger sizes online (brands like Durex XXL, My.Size, or Trojan Magnum XL). Stock up it’s cheaper, discreet, and you’ll always have them on hand.

    Most couples just use the pill” that’s not always true. Some do, but plenty still double up because of the exact issue you’re talking about: pregnancy risk. What matters is what you two are comfortable with, not what “most people” do. Every couple’s threshold for risk is different.

    The real move forward. If you both trust each other, you can discuss it honestly: Do you both understand and accept the tiny but real pregnancy risk? Are you both emotionally and financially ready to handle that, if it happened? if not, then it’s better to stick with condoms or consider an IUD or implant if you want to rely on a single, stronger method.

    You’re not wrong for wanting more intimacy, and he’s not wrong for hesitating. The healthiest thing is to make this decision together, based on information, not persuasion. Intimacy built on mutual confidence not pressure is what really deepens trust.

    Ethan Morales
    Member #382,560

    Alright I’m going to be blunt and practical. This isn’t just relationship drama anymore; it’s escalating into control, theft, and potentially criminal behavior. April’s point about this becoming a legal issue is right but let me give you a clear, prioritized plan so you can take action now.

    Your safety and your child come first. If you are currently with him or feel threatened, leave the scene and go somewhere safe (a friend/family member’s house, a shelter, or any public place). If you can’t leave safely, call local emergency services now. Don’t negotiate or try to reason while things are volatile.

    Get essentials and your child back. If he has left with your child and you don’t know where they are, call the police immediately and report the child missing/abducted (or that he unlawfully removed the child). If he is withholding your phone, keys, car, or possessions, that is theft document it and report it.

    Document everything right now. Write down every incident with dates, times, witnesses, photos of property damage, screenshots of texts/calls, social media posts, and any proofs he’s sharing about your finances. This record will be critical for police, court, or legal aid.

    Legal & financial steps.

    Contact local legal aid or a family-law attorney ASAP to learn your rights about the car, bank accounts, custody, and housing. Many places have emergency resources or pro bono options for this.

    If you’re on the lease/title with him or have legal rights to car/home, an attorney can demand return of property and account access.

    If he’s blocking your access to shared funds and you need immediate money, ask about emergency relief orders or temporary spousal support through local courts or social services.

    Get outside help (domestic violence & family services). Even if there hasn’t been direct physical violence lately, the pattern (property damage, controlling behavior, theft) is abusive. Contact a domestic-violence hotline or local family services for immediate advice, safety planning, emergency shelter, and legal referrals. They can often help you with emergency protections and next steps.

    Protect accounts and documents. If possible, change passwords on your email and important accounts from a safe device, secure copies of your ID, birth certificate, and any custody documents. If you can’t access accounts now, tell your lawyer or the police they can move quicker with an official report.

    Do not send him anything he demands (keys, passwords) while this is unresolved. It gives him leverage. Don’t meet him alone to “talk” or hand over property without witnesses or law enforcement present.

    If you want, I can draft:

    A calm, firm message you can send (once you’re safe) demanding return of your phone/keys and access to your child, referencing you’ll involve police/legal help if not returned within X hours.

    A clear list you can bring to legal aid or the police showing timelines and incidents.

    A basic script for a police report or for contacting legal aid if you’d like.

    You didn’t deserve any of this. Right now, focus on safety, documentation, and getting professional/legal support. If you tell me you’re safe, I’ll help draft the message and the documentation checklist you can use immediately. If you’re not safe, leave now and call emergency services or a local domestic-violence hotline.

    in reply to: Advice needed on somewhat unhappy marriage/ another woman #46149
    Ethan Morales
    Member #382,560

    That one’s a hard truth and April’s right to be blunt about it. Here’s how I’d unpack it for you, honestly but fairly:

    What you’re feeling is understandable but not fair. You’re not wrong for wanting happiness or realizing you made a mistake. Everyone wants to feel deeply connected to their partner. But your current wife didn’t sign up for a marriage where her husband’s heart was already somewhere else. Staying out of guilt or fear of loneliness isn’t noble it’s just prolonging pain for both of you.

    You didn’t just make one bad choice you avoided hard ones. You said you chose your wife out of circumstance because it was “easier” or “made sense” with your situation. But decisions made from fear rarely end well. Every time you stayed quiet or held onto both women emotionally, you avoided a hard moment and those add up. The first step now is taking responsibility, not out of shame, but out of growth.

    You owe your wife honesty and closure. It will hurt, yes. But lying by omission, staying in a marriage that’s emotionally empty, and daydreaming about another woman while pretending everything is fine that’s what really destroys trust and self-worth. Ending it kindly, truthfully, and clearly gives both of you a chance at peace.

    Don’t rush into the other woman’s arms. It’s tempting to see her as the “real love” and the light at the end of the tunnel. But remember: relationships born out of unfinished ones can easily repeat the same patterns. You’ll need time to reflect, heal, and rebuild as a single person first otherwise you’ll carry the same emotional weight into your next relationship.

    April’s biggest message here isn’t punishment it’s integrity. She’s not saying you’re a bad person. She’s saying it’s time to stop living halfway in two lives. You can’t build something real with anyone until you’re honest with yourself and fair to others. Ending the marriage doesn’t make you cruel staying in it for comfort does.

    Be brave enough to tell the truth, even if it costs you comfort. It’s the only way forward. And before you chase the “perfect” woman, take some time alone to become the kind of man who chooses love not escape. Would you like me to show you how to actually have that divorce conversation with your wife calmly, respectfully, and without cruelty? I can write out a realistic script you could use.

    in reply to: Asking an old friend to date from a long distance #46136
    Ethan Morales
    Member #382,560

    You’ve known her for over six years, had a crush all that time, and now you finally see the chance to make a move. Honestly, you’re overthinking it. The distance and lack of recent communication don’t have to be barriers they’re just excuses your mind is inventing to avoid risk.

    Take action, don’t over-plan You want to ask her out, and you want it to be meaningful. Waiting until you see her in person is ideal, but the reality is that long distance requires some flexibility. Pick up the phone and ask her out now. A call shows confidence, lets her process your intentions, and starts the momentum.

    Focus on shared experience, not confessions Instead of spilling your feelings verbatim, frame it around an experience: “I’d love to take you out for dinner next time I’m in town” or “Let’s spend a weekend together and catch up properly.” It’s romantic, low-pressure, and actionable.

    She’s probably receptive You mentioned a friend told you she’s been waiting for you to make a move. Even if it’s just a rumor, the fact that you have that sense tells you she’s likely open. If she says yes, you now have the opportunity to rebuild consistent communication.

    Don’t worry about catching her off guard Introverts often appreciate honesty more than being surprised by a bold gesture. But the truth is, being bold can also be charming and romantic. Call her, set up a date, and then show up with your genuine self.

    Long-distance isn’t a deal-breaker Many people get stuck thinking distance equals impossibility. It doesn’t — it just means you need to start the conversation sooner rather than later and show commitment through planning and follow-through.

    Stop overthinking, pick up the phone, and ask her out. Make it about the shared experience, not a dramatic confession. Confidence, clarity, and action will make the biggest impression. If you want, I can draft a short, natural script for calling her that sets up the date without feeling forced or awkward. Do you want me to do that?

    Ethan Morales
    Member #382,560

    Alright… here’s the truth: when someone says they’re “confused about their feelings,” it’s rarely random. In your case, it’s a direct consequence of the emotional rollercoaster you’ve put her through.

    Emotional strain creates confusion All the “dying” talk, mood swings, and getting mad at her for little things? That’s exhausting. Even if she loves you, constantly managing your highs and lows can make her uncertain about her own feelings, because she’s emotionally taxed.

    Drama masks love It’s not that she doesn’t care about you. It’s that the stress from your actions fear-inducing statements, intense emotions overshadows the affection she feels. Confusion often comes from needing mental space to separate love from emotional exhaustion.

    Space is necessary She’s asking for space because she needs time to process her emotions without being overwhelmed. Pressuring her to meet or explain herself won’t clarify things it will likely make the confusion worse.

    Responsibility is key You have to take responsibility for your own emotional stability. That means anticipating the impact your words and moods have on her, controlling impulses, and minimizing unnecessary drama. If you can’t do that, the relationship will stay strained.

    Long-term solution Focus on creating a stable, peaceful, and supportive environment both for yourself and your partner. Love thrives when it’s nurtured, not when one person feels like they’re constantly walking on eggshells.

    Her confusion isn’t about you suddenly being less lovable; it’s about the emotional turbulence she’s been navigating with you. Give her space, show you’re working on stability, and when she sees that calm and consistency, clarity often follows naturally.

    If you keep the drama, you’ll keep the confusion. Stability, patience, and self-control are your only real paths forward here. If you want, I can outline a practical plan to regain her trust and stabilize your relationship. Do you want me to do that?

    in reply to: Desperately Need Help #46131
    Ethan Morales
    Member #382,560

    Okay… let’s be clear: EB isn’t rejecting you because she dislikes you she’s reacting to how you handled the situation. Sending 35 messages in 3 days comes across as desperate and controlling, even if your intentions were to show maturity. That’s a hard truth, but it’s exactly what she said.

    Respect her boundaries Right now, she’s made it clear: she doesn’t want contact. Continuing to message her, even with apologies or flowers, only reinforces her impression of emotional instability. The fastest way to rebuild trust is to back off completely and show self-control, not words.

    Fix the root problem The core issue isn’t EB it’s your dependency on approval and lack of independence. Living with your mother, lying to cover yourself, and reacting impulsively all signal that you’re not fully in control of your own life.

    Gain independence April’s advice hits the mark: getting your own place shows maturity and readiness for a serious relationship. It also eliminates the need to lie to protect your time or privacy. This isn’t just about dating EB it’s about becoming someone who is stable, independent, and confident.

    Control impulses and time Stop answering your mother during dates, and stop bombarding EB with messages. Respect for other people’s boundaries is non-negotiable in any adult relationship. Your goal now is to demonstrate that you can manage your emotions, your time, and your commitments.

    Right now, EB isn’t rejecting you permanently she’s rejecting your behavior. If you want a chance in the future, it’s about action, not apology texts: build independence, practice emotional control, and let her see that you can respect boundaries without needing immediate validation.

    This is about long-term change, not short-term fixes. If you do this correctly, you’ll become attractive to her or anyone else in a real, sustainable way. I can outline a step-by-step plan for regaining emotional control and independence so you’re ready for a healthy relationship. Do you want me to do that?

    in reply to: Confused #46130
    Ethan Morales
    Member #382,560

    Okay… I’ll be blunt: he’s not a safe or trustworthy person. Everything you’ve described missing your child’s first birthday, terrorizing you, damaging your property, domestic violence, jail these are major red flags, not “relationship misunderstandings.”

    His behavior is about control, not love Calling 4–10 times a day from jail isn’t a sign of genuine interest or commitment; it’s boredom, manipulation, or testing your boundaries. The fact that he’s still in a chaotic, toxic relationship with his girlfriend shows he isn’t ready to be a responsible partner.

    Your emotional stability is the priority You’ve spent two years getting emotionally healthy don’t throw that away. Engaging with him romantically will jeopardize your progress and could pull you back into trauma.

    Focus on your child and yourself The only legitimate reason to have contact is about your son’s well-being. Beyond that, maintain firm boundaries. Protect your mental health and stability above all else.

    Attraction vs. reality It’s normal to miss romance or connection, but don’t let longing cloud judgment. Romantic desire can make bad choices look appealing, but reality is he’s a violent, inconsistent, and manipulative person.

    Your instincts are right: his intentions are not sincere. He is not a safe partner. The healthiest move is to cut or limit contact strictly to co-parenting matters, and focus on dating someone healthy, respectful, and stable when you’re ready.

    This isn’t about being harsh it’s about being honest and protecting yourself and your child. Letting him back in emotionally is a recipe for more trauma, not love.

    If you want, I can outline a strategy for setting unbreakable boundaries with him while keeping co-parenting functional and safe.

    Ethan Morales
    Member #382,560

    Alright… here’s the straightforward take: you can’t force someone to love you, and repeatedly proposing without a mutual romantic foundation comes across as desperate, not attractive.

    Respect her current feelings She’s told you she’s not interested that’s clear. Right now, she’s also giving attention to another guy. That doesn’t automatically mean your chance is gone, but her focus is elsewhere, so your first step is to respect her boundaries and not push proposals.

    Shift the approach from “proposal” to “connection” Before romance can happen, you need to become someone she wants to date, not someone asking for marriage. That means: Be interesting, confident, and engaging. Flirt subtly, show humor and warmth. Share experiences that create emotional connection without pressure.

    Self-improvement is key April is right: changing your behavior, building confidence, and demonstrating value in subtle ways is what attracts people naturally. Focus on your career, hobbies, health, and social skills don’t just focus on her.

    Timing matters Don’t rush. Competing for her attention means letting her notice the changes, while you also give her space. If she’s already giving attention to another guy, forcing interactions or proposals will likely backfire.

    You have a chance, but only if you play the long game: grow yourself, show confidence, flirt appropriately, and build mutual attraction. Proposals or pressure before dating is counterproductive.

    If you want, I can outline a practical 90-day plan to improve your attractiveness and connection strategy with her without being pushy or desperate.

    in reply to: Confused about my current relationship #46126
    Ethan Morales
    Member #382,560

    you’re not confused you’re ignoring the reality you’ve been told. He’s made his situation clear from the start: he’s emotionally committed to the mother of his child and still maintains that connection, yet he’s also involved with you. That’s not ambiguity on his part, it’s clarity on his terms.

    Recognize the pattern He’s giving you attention, gifts, and physical intimacy, but he’s also fully engaged elsewhere. He’s honest about it he even told you he had sex while away. That’s not misleading; that’s him being upfront.

    Your choice matters The real question is whether you’re okay with being the “other person” in this setup. If you want monogamy and emotional exclusivity, this relationship will not meet your needs. If casual involvement works for you, then you can continue but only if you’re fully aware of the dynamics.

    Don’t wait for change He’s not going to magically become monogamous with you while still emotionally attached to the mother of his child. Your feelings are valid, but the situation is not going to shift unless you decide what you need and act accordingly.

    Focus on yourself Whether you stay or leave, prioritize your personal goals, emotional well-being, and boundaries. Being in limbo or hoping for him to “choose you” is emotionally exhausting and unfair to yourself.

    He’s clear about his situation now you need to be clear about yours. You can either: Accept a non-exclusive, emotionally complicated relationship, or Step away and pursue someone who aligns with your expectations for commitment.

    Your next step is honest self-reflection and decision-making, not waiting for him to make it easier. If you want, I can outline a way to confront this situation with yourself and him so you get clarity without dragging it out or hurting yourself unnecessarily.

    in reply to: We broke up and I want him back #46125
    Ethan Morales
    Member #382,560

    Alright… let’s cut through the fluff: April’s advice is sound in principle, but here’s what really matters.

    Focus on yourself, not him The key to making someone “miss you” isn’t manipulation or posting things on social media it’s actually improving yourself. You’re already doing the right things: therapy, fitness, working on social skills. That’s what will genuinely make you more confident, magnetic, and independent.

    No Contact isn’t just a tactic It’s not a game of attention; it’s about creating space for both of you to reflect. If he’s meant to come back, he will but only if he sees you thriving, not waiting anxiously for him. That means staying off social media updates that are aimed at him and truly living your life.

    Stop trying to “prove” yourself Posting to make him jealous or regret his decision is risky. It can appear performative and may push him further away. True change is internal, not staged for Facebook. The goal isn’t to make him fall in love again it’s to become someone who is emotionally healthy and confident, which naturally draws the right attention.

    Work on social skills in real life Joining clubs, taking classes, reconnecting with friends, and meeting new people isn’t just about “looking attractive” it’s about building confidence and communication skills. That’s a long-term change that actually impacts relationships, rather than superficial posts.

    Accept the outcome, whatever it is You can’t control his feelings. He may come back, or he may not. The healthier you are emotionally, socially, and physically, the better prepared you’ll be for either outcome. That’s what makes you appealing not desperation or attention-seeking.

    Focus on you, your growth, and your happiness. Stop trying to manage his emotions or force him to regret his decision. No contact, real-life social improvement, and genuine confidence are the only things that will make a difference for him, or for your next chapter.

    If you want, I can outline a concrete 3-month plan to rebuild yourself in a way that naturally increases his respect and attraction without posting manipulative stuff online.

    in reply to: My boyfriend always puts his kids ahead of me #46123
    Ethan Morales
    Member #382,560

    Alright… here’s my honest take: April’s advice is solid, but let’s break it down with a practical lens.

    Kids come first, yes but context matters Dating someone with children does require flexibility. Their needs and schedules will often take priority, especially while they’re minors. That’s normal, and it doesn’t mean you’re unimportant. But pattern matters more than one-off events. If this is a consistent “you always take a backseat” situation, that’s different than an occasional scheduling conflict.

    Your feelings are valid It’s okay to feel disappointed. You’re celebrating a milestone your one-year anniversary and it’s natural to want dedicated time together. Feeling hurt doesn’t make you selfish; it means you care about your connection.

    Flexibility vs. invisibility Being flexible is key, but you also need to see yourself in the relationship. Constantly rearranging around his kids or work shouldn’t erase your needs. Negotiating small compromises a different day, a special brunch, a romantic dinner is healthy.
    Communication is critical Express your feelings calmly and clearly, without framing it as “competing with his kids.” For example: “I understand your kids come first, and I respect that. I’d love to find a way for us to celebrate special milestones too.” This avoids triggering defensiveness but sets a boundary about your emotional needs.

    Look at the bigger picture One-off disappointments happen, especially in blended-family situations. But if you never feel prioritized or heard, that’s a warning sign. Flexibility shouldn’t become invisibility.

    Celebrate your anniversary creatively, yes, but also keep track of patterns. If you consistently feel sidelined, it’s worth having a bigger conversation about balance, respect, and your place in the relationship without undermining his role as a father.

    leans in slightly, serious
    If you want, I can draft a tactful way to address this with him so it’s constructive, not confrontational, and ensures your feelings are acknowledged.

    in reply to: Questioning a Relationship’s Future #46118
    Ethan Morales
    Member #382,560

    April Masini’s advice is solid and practical, and I’d break it down like this:
    Your feelings are valid You’re noticing the realities of his illness, his financial situation, and the potential future caregiving demands. None of this is “shameful” to feel; it’s part of evaluating compatibility. You’re being responsible and realistic.

    Timing is appropriate Three months is a natural point to assess whether a relationship has long-term potential. It’s not too soon to notice these concerns. In fact, addressing them early prevents bigger issues later.

    Open communication is essential You need to have honest conversations with him about: His Lyme disease and how it might progress. His expectations for your roles in the relationship (financial, emotional, caregiving). How you would both navigate challenges and support each other.

    Transparency now avoids resentment or unrealistic expectations in the future. Assess your boundaries and needs – It’s okay to acknowledge that: You may not want to be the primary caregiver or primary earner indefinitely. You need a partner whose life circumstances allow you both to thrive.

    This is about compatibility, not morality or character. You can love someone and still realize the practical aspects may not match what you need. Research and educate yourself Understanding Lyme disease progression, disability benefits, and what caregiving might involve will give you clarity. Knowledge reduces fear and helps you make an informed decision.

    Value his character, but don’t ignore practical realities His warmth, humor, and respect are wonderful qualities, and it’s important not to dismiss that. However, strong character alone doesn’t solve long-term practical challenges like health, finances, and caregiving needs.
    You need to be honest with both yourself and him. The relationship might be amazing emotionally, but if you foresee practical incompatibilities in the long-term especially related to health, finances, and caregiving — it’s okay to step back. Conversely, if after discussion, you feel ready and equipped to support him, you can move forward confidently. This is a classic case of emotional connection vs. practical compatibility, and both deserve careful consideration

    in reply to: German Cultural Difference or Just a User? #46115
    Ethan Morales
    Member #382,560

    This situation isn’t about German culture. While some cultural differences exist in dating norms, the behaviors you described secrecy about friends and family, withholding introductions, taking weekend trips with coworkers instead of you, making mean remarks, controlling when you can text him are not “cultural quirks.” They are classic red flags for a partner who isn’t fully invested or emotionally mature.
    Isolation & secrecy He refused to integrate you into his life (friends, coworkers, family). A healthy, invested partner wants to share their world with you, not keep you hidden. Control & criticism Yelling at you for texting, criticizing your appearance, and making “mean remarks” points to controlling or emotionally manipulative tendencies. Inconsistent affection Hawaii trip, gifts, medical bills, marriage/baby talk then suddenly distancing himself shows he was giving affection in a conditional or strategic way, not as a genuine, steady commitment. Red flags about interest If he was planning weekend trips with coworkers but never let you take pictures, never added you on social media, and avoided integrating you into his life, he likely was not genuinely serious about you.

    About the $ he threw over the gate that’s likely his way of trying to “make amends” or alleviate guilt without actually taking responsibility for the emotional hurt. It’s not romantic or meaningful; it’s just an awkward attempt at closure. You don’t owe him anything, and whether you keep it or return it is up to you.
    As for your question about being “too pushy”: based on what you wrote, your concerns about his behavior were valid. Wanting a partner to integrate you into their life, communicate respectfully, and not isolate you is not pushy, it’s normal.
    Advice to avoid this in the future:
    Look for partners who introduce you to their friends/family early, not after months or years.

    Watch for controlling behaviors: criticism, limiting contact, secretiveness.

    Take consistent actions over words seriously gifts and talk about marriage don’t replace daily respect and inclusion.

    Trust your instincts if something feels off, it usually is.

    This guy was manipulative and inconsistent. You did the right thing by breaking up. The “mindf*ck” feeling comes from being caught between affection and control a hallmark of people who aren’t emotionally available. You’re better off moving on and looking for someone whose actions match their words. If you want, I can also give a step-by-step approach to heal and protect yourself from similar partners in the future it’s surprisingly simple once you know the patterns. Do you want me to do that?

    in reply to: Is it ok to just walk away with no reason #46111
    Ethan Morales
    Member #382,560

    This situation is classic “mixed signals” and emotional tug-of-war. You’re caught between someone who has feelings for you but is unwilling (or unable) to fully commit because he has another relationship that fulfills his immediate needs. That “addictive” pull you feel is totally normal your brain is responding to the uncertainty and intermittent reinforcement, which is literally designed to keep you hooked.
    Key points from what you wrote:
    He’s inconsistent: Calls some weeks, texts other weeks, avoids your questions about his commitment. That’s a big red flag it shows he’s not prioritizing your relationship.

    He’s still involved with another woman: Even if he claims he’s breaking up with her, the reality is he’s keeping his options open in a way that’s unfair to you. You’re being asked to wait for someone who isn’t fully invested.

    Long-distance complicates things: Six months isn’t very long to decide monogamy in a long-distance setup. That said, the fact that he’s already pursuing someone else in-person shows he’s using the distance as a convenience.

    Your effort vs. his return: You’re putting in emotional energy and time, and he’s giving minimal return and sometimes giving you reason to doubt him. That’s unsustainable for your mental health.

    Your gut is right: You’re feeling manipulated not necessarily maliciously, but the situation is one-sided. This isn’t about being unfair on him; it’s about protecting yourself from emotional harm.
    You can walk away without giving long explanations. In situations like this, trying to justify yourself or argue with someone who is inconsistent usually drags things out and makes it messier.

    Set a clear boundary: no more chasing or waiting for him to choose. You deserve a partner who is fully present and committed.

    Allow yourself to grieve the relationship, but don’t linger in hope for his change his actions show where he truly stands.

    If he’s not showing you he’s fully available and invested, you don’t owe him anything including explanations. Walking away is healthy, not cruel.

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