DEAR HARRIETTE: I have had a crush on this guy for a really long time. One of my best friends feels the same way about him. At the beginning of the school year, he and I were exclusive for about five months until we were about to have sex. When I asked him if I meant anything to him, he avoided the topic and told me that he didn't actually like me that much. We broke up, but I am still not over him. Last weekend, my best friend and this boy confessed their love for each other and are going to prom together -- as a couple. Since we are in the same friend group, I am forced to pretend that I am not mad at her because my friends don't want to deal with any drama. I am so not OK with this situation, and I cannot believe she would do this to me. What should I do? -- Feeling Betrayed, Boston
DEAR FEELING BETRAYED: Both the boy and your friend have been insensitive to you and your feelings. The boy should not have been dating you exclusively if he didn't really like you. That was very immature and heartless.
Given that you are in high school, it is understandable that you are all still learning how to have a relationship, maintain your friendships and stay sane. It isn't easy, even when you get older. For now, if you can, find a date for the prom so that you will have a healthy distraction from obsessing over them. If not, make a plan to spend time with your other friends without always being in the company of those two.
Your feelings may be hurt when you witness the two of them as a couple, but you should find some solace in realizing that you stopped the relationship from turning a very dangerous corner by not having sex with him when you discovered that you and he didn't share the same feelings for each other. Give yourself credit for being wise. You can get through this with integrity on your side.