DEAR ABBY: I’m struggling with my integrity and an important friendship. My friend “Beth’s” husband, “Jerry,” came to my house to help with a construction project. After discussing the project, we sat down to visit for a bit. He was very forward with me and overly affectionate. (It’s been 10 years since I’ve had any affection.) He also talked about how affection doesn’t have to “mean anything,” which I believe is true — to an extent. I told him it was inappropriate, but I didn’t stop either of us when Jerry kissed me before leaving.
Part of me was thrilled at being kissed again, even though I know it was wrong. I am sure that I won’t allow it to happen again. I’m afraid to contact him and deliver that message directly, because there’s a chance it wouldn’t be a private message. I couldn’t tolerate Beth knowing this happened. I treasure her friendship. I’ve no idea if Jerry said anything to her about what happened. I’m panicked that I may have lost a treasured friend. Advice? — AFRAID AND WORRIED
Support authors and subscribe to content
This is premium stuff. Subscribe to read the entire article.
