Need Dr. Drew relationship advice but don’t have the sensationalistic drama to warrant TV time? Unfortunately, Real Live College Guy Ryan isn’t a reality show therapist. However, he can provide the lowdown on everything you’ve ever wanted to know about college males: how they think, act, speak and genuinely interact with the women in their lives.
I told my guy friend I liked him at the end of last semester. He told me he didn’t feel the same way and, since it was just a crush, I got over it after not seeing him over winter break. This semester it’s very awkward with us. I don’t want to tell him “I don’t have a crush on you,” but I want to make that message heard and have our friendship go back to the way it was. — No Longer Crushing at Clemson
Correct: you definitely don’t want to tell him that. If you want to get your message across and have that friendship restored, then… don’t hold your breath. He’s probably still spooked (and feeling awkward), so don’t expect any immediate return to BFF-ville.
So, keep it simple: be cordial and friendly whenever you see him and try to strike up small talk. Your original friendship won’t be immediately restored, but that shouldn’t be your goal. Take small steps such as interacting with him and catching up. Rebuild that initial rapport you two shared before you dropped that “I like you bomb” on him and hope that you two can pick up where you left off.
There isn’t anything you can do in this situation that will immediately fix everything. Just give him space, be nice and hope that you two will be as close as you once were.