Bek, 18, from Pennsylvania asks:

Ok so, I like this kid, and he knows, but he's not weirded about it at all. We actually started hanging out more and more after he found out. Only problem is that he said that he doesn't have those feelings for me, yet sometimes he says that he doesn't want to ruin our friendship and also said someday in the future maybe we'll go out, because you never know what the future holds. He is really touchy-feely with me, example: always poking me playing with my hair, laying on me, putting his arm around me, and kissed me on the cheek like 5 times. I asked him about going to the prom and he said that he would go with me, but only as friends. I've been there for him through so much and I am the only girl, he says, that knows so much about him besides his mom and sister. I am really confused, I don't know if he likes me or not, perhaps he's in denial?

VictorM's advice:

I wouldn't call it denial, just not ready for romance with you yet. A romantic relationship implies sex (or at least making out), gifts, responsibility, commitment, etc. He may just not be ready for all of that yet. So whether it's conscienciously or subconsciously, he's just reacting to not being ready yet.

Often, the best relationships start exactly the way you describe. When a guy can show those kinds of feelings towards a girl without just wanting sex, those feelings are sincere and create a level of respect that give you a stronger foundation if and when a relationship develops. So, I say, enjoy what you have now and relax about the future. If it's meant to be, it will be, and if so, it'll probably be great. If not, you have a great friend. Either way, you win.

Labels: advice, answer, best friends, relationship, romance