We get a lot of advice questions coming in at EMandLO.com, but sadly, we just can’t answer them all. Which is why, once a week, we turn to you to decide how best to advise a reader. Make your call on the letter below by leaving your advice in the comments section.
I went out with this guy I’ve known distantly for a while, a friend of a friend kind of thing where we occasionally bump into each other at parties. It was pretty much a date: we did dinner and drinks. He’s nice but I’m not into him like that. Now he’s texting me and asking when we can meet up again. I keep coming up with excuses about being “busy” (because I’m a chicken) hoping he’ll get the hint. What’s the best way to let someone down gently, without hurting their feelings? I know it’s cliche, but I’d definitely be interested in remaining friends with him. I just don’t want to get with him. Since I know him and we had an official day, do I have to say something in person or make a phone call, or is something written enough? And if so, should it be email or is via text ok? Either way, what do I say???
— Finickey
