DEAR ABBY: Some time ago I met a wonderful man. We shared many happy moments together, and I fell in love with him. I have always been there for him when he was sick or needed company, and he has done countless favors for me.
When we met, I lied to him and said I was living with my mom; actually I am living with my ex-boyfriend and his cousin. My ex-boyfriend and I are no longer romantically involved. I needed a place to live, so we became roommates.
My lover recently discovered the truth, and he is furious that I lied. He says I betrayed him. I didn't betray him. I didn't tell him because I was afraid I'd lose him.
Now he refuses to take my calls and doesn't answer my pages. He says he wants more "space." I love him more than life itself. How can I make things the way they were? I don't want to lose him. -- ON THE RUN IN SOUTH DAKOTA
DEAR ON THE RUN: You would have been wiser had you told the truth from the beginning. Write him a letter explaining that you lied because you love him and feared losing him. Give your lover the space he needs. Meanwhile, find another roommate.