How do I get rid of him?

[Zig27]

There is a guy who I became friends with through someone else. Yesterday he took me to a gardens and cafe there. I kept offering to pay my way and he refused. He told me I was the first person he saw since lockdown has eased and he hasn’t seen his best friends since lockdown. I found that strange as I have seen all my close friends since.

He messaged last night. He has messaged tonight asking how my day was. He has done this before in the past where he becomes obsessed and keeps bombarding me with messages. I’m not interested in him.

What is the best thing to do as I don’t want to fall out but I’m not interested in him romantically.

You may have to fall out with him if he's obsessing over you. You can try telling him that you are not interested in him romantically and that he has to accept that. Be prepared for him not accepting your disinterest and having to stop all contact with him. Be careful as this has the possibility of escalating into a stalking situation.

Telling him calmly that you're not interested in him romantically isn't starting a row or a fall out. If that's how he responds, you can't do anything about it. Just tell him.

Good advice above. I suggest you stop all contact with him once you have told him you are not interested. I think if you stay in touch or remain friendly he may well still think he's in with a chance and keep pestering you.

Take your time replying. Don't meet him. If he asks you out again tell him you don't want a romantic relationship.

Thank you for all of your advice. I will definitely delay my replies. I think in future I’m going to have to say I’m busy or at work. Nothing worse than a clinger.

Don't meet him again. You cant have a friendship with someone who wants more from you.