I'm Indian living in the UK. My marriage failed and I'm now dating another guy. My parents are not extremely traditional but probably not as modern to embrace live-in relationship before getting married. They don't know about the new guy. He has circumstances that they will not approve of so introducing him as a boyfriend will bring no good either.
Parents feel sad for me as they believe that I must be lonely in a foreign country and worry for me but their only fix is to look for another husband. It took me about 5 years to end the first marriage and don't want to get married again. But do need companionship. I'm not particularly broody so biological clock isn't a factor. Or may be I'm lying to myself as I fear the consequences and justifications and lengthy intrusive discussions I would have to have explaining my choices.
The relationship probably won't last a life time but I enjoy being with him for now. I have my own feelings to sort out and this business about lying to rest of the family isn't helping. But if it does become a serious relationship, how many years can I continue hiding it to avoid confrontation because I don't feel it really affects their daily life to but also feel bad to let them believe I'm living alone and they feel sad and worried for me. My child bearing years are passing by and I feel restricted psychologically due to family expectations in choosing a partner that fits their Mr. Right description. They only want what's best for me honestly but it's a catch 22.
It feels suffocating and deceitful at the same time because I'm not living like an adult and can't freely own my choices. Not sure anyone has similar experience? Is there a way to reduce the guilt - okay to lie to parents and hide the relationship? Help me become an adult please!