Weve now been dating for about 6 months.

Hes honestly been incredible and complains when I pull back emotionally or sexually.

I only started pulling away because Im confused is this how people date now?

He acts like he’s my official boyfriend and we’re sexually exclusive, but he doesn’t use the label.

They act like they are in relationships just without goals or commitment?

Im not used to this.

His actions totally look like a relationship but he says he doesnt want it.

He didnt get it.

Maybe he is just immature?

I dont understand how to operate with so much gray area!

Weve agreed to be exclusive sexually.

It made sense to me as a confirmation of a relationship milestone, but now Im reevaluating that decision.

yo explain his behavior!

He has a lot of good qualities but Im also stressing out as more time passes.

A:Partnering up makes life easier.

Life is alarmingly like trying to get a queen-sized mattress up a flight of stairs.

Of course you want someone to take the other side!

Being single is hard.

So I get the appeal of this guy.

Uber will take you to the airport.

Instacart will bring you groceries.

Movers will help you move.

(Friends will also do all of these things sometimes!)

Theyll do it without comparing you to an ex!

Yes, dating this guy seems to be making your life easier, but is it making your lifebetter?

Frankly, you are not seeing him clearly.

This man is not, Im sorry to report, incredible.

And there is no gray area here at all.

Hes an a**.

You are not confused.

His behavior isnt confusing!

Sorry for ending every sentence in an exclamation point, but!

Another clue I have that things arent exactlyva-ingbene?

You are playing games.

Pulling away from someone just to test how much they like you?

You should not have to test anyone youre in a relationship with.

This isnt seventh grade science class.

If you feel the need to pull away from someone,leave them for good.

I want to be clear, I am not against casual relationships.

They can be lovely, especially when two people arent ready for or dont want something serious.

Continuing to date him would be like trying to order steak at an ice cream shop.

He cannot and will not give you what you want or need.

He has told you that with both his words and his actions.

No amount of driving you around town changes any of this.

He doesnt want a relationship with you.

He is very clear on this.

So you gotta go.

yo, put the carving knife down and go to a car dealership.

This metaphor is too long, Im sorry.

A relationship is like sex: If you cant talk about it, youre not ready to have it.

I know you have tried to talk to him, so I dont fault you for that.

Its time to end this unsatisfying semi-relationship and find people who can help you feel less alone right now.

Its time to ask for favors and speak up about what you need.

Run errands with a friend!

Spend time with loved ones who do not perplex you with their displays of affection.

Its A Pleasure appears here every other Thursday.

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