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Relationships

Mumsnet has not checked the qualifications of anyone posting here. If you need help urgently or expert advice, please see our domestic violence webguide and/or relationships webguide. Many Mumsnetters experiencing domestic abuse have found this thread helpful: Listen up, everybody

Casual relationship confusion

28 replies

Chocolates123 · 19/01/2020 14:32

Hi ladies

Bit of background first, I'm in my early 30s and recently separated from DH. Six months ago I started a new job and was instantly attracted to another colleague (mid 40s) and we became fast friends. We get on really well and work closely together on a daily basis.

Fast forward to two months ago, we confessed we had feelings, but he quite openly stated he wanted things to be casual. We speak every day, see each other in work five days a week, and meet for meals/drinks etc maybe once every other week. We slept together for the first time this week. He was very attentive and affectionate, i.e kissing me all over for hours and hours, stroking my face, gazing into my eyes, telling me how beautiful I am etc etc. Afterwards he was still very affectionate, cuddling me and kissing me for a few more hours and hasn't pulled away since (which I was worried he would). We have plans to meet each other again next week.

I think my question is whether this sounds normal to you? How can someone be so affectionate and warm, but still not be into me enough to want anything more than casual. I enjoy his company and his friendship but I worry I'm falling too hard to keep things casual for much longer.

I'd like the continue with things, as he does make me happy,

OP posts:
Waxonwaxoff0 · 19/01/2020 15:15

Ok. I'm going to be brutally honest as I've been where you are before and learned the hard way.

Of course men can be affectionate and still only want things to be casual. You'd be amazed at how far men will actually go to get some sex.

He has said he wants it to be casual. Believe him. Don't hang on thinking his feelings will change because one day he will meet someone else who he wants a real relationship with and then you will be left high and dry.

Casual relationships can NOT work if one person has feelings and the other doesn't. If you have feelings, end it now or you are risking getting very hurt.

MyuMe · 19/01/2020 15:16

And this is the problem.

I wouldn't take it to mean see other people.

In this context I'd take it to mean friends with benefits but not going to be taken out as a couple, introduced to friends and family etc.

AnnDaloozier · 19/01/2020 15:27

Agree. Men will say anything

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