Mixed Signals

[Charlie Chance]

I am getting mixed signals from someone I really care about. This time two months ago we had a very close relationship and I felt that it was naturally developing into a romantic one.
Unfortunately his dad passed away very suddenly and since then he has been distant and withdrawn. I have tried to respect that it must be a very difficult time for him, and given him space, but he is acting very strangely and I am worried.
To make matters worse my family are not supportive of the relationship and have encouraged me to take a step back. He is from a very wealthy and powerful family, and for this reason my dad thinks the relationship will never become official.
Last night he snuck into my house to see me and was acting stranger than ever. He was half dressed and almost howling in pain. I was shocked, and surprised to see him, and did not know how to react. I am worried about his mental health and do not know what to do.

[realblonde]

Losing a loved one is never easy, even when you have time to prepare for it. It is likely that he will be hurting..deeply...for a good while.

Probably the best thing you can do right now is to be a friend, listen..and don't judge. This is not a time to push a romance to the surface. If the romantic feelings are there on his part, they will surface in due time.

How old are the two of you?

[ps_abbrev]

Losing a loved one is never easy, even when you have time to prepare for it. It is likely that he will be hurting..deeply...for a good while.

Probably the best thing you can do right now is to be a friend, listen..and don't judge. This is not a time to push a romance to the surface. If the romantic feelings are there on his part, they will surface in due time.

How old are the two of you?

x2 (I would have said the same, and would have asked the same question too).

[Charlie Chance]

Thanks for your words of advice. I'm 18 and the man in question is 21.

[realblonde]

Thanks for your words of advice. I'm 18 and the man in question is 21.

You are quite welcome. Losing a parent when you are so young is very tough. Most people logically feel that their parents will be around until they reach middle age or thereabouts.

Three years difference isn't much at any age, especially with both of you as adults. My wife and I are 6 years apart, and have zero problems because of that.

Listen to him and be his friend. Romance will blossom in it's time, and until that happens you still have the benefit of being together.

It may be wise to think about the reasons that your family want you to take a step back. I know it goes against what you want to hear, but think about what they say and give it a fair evaluation. Emotions are running high, and I think they don't want you to make some fast and foolish decisions.

Best of luck to you. I hope everything works out.

[realblonde]

How are things going with you and your boyfriend? I was just wondering. I certainly hope that everything turns out well for the both of you.