DEAR ABBY: I am a 23-year-old single working woman, and I'm in love with an older married man in my office. This has gone on for about two years.
I have never acted on my feelings, and I never would. I wouldn't do anything to jeopardize his marriage and have never told him how I feel. However, a little incident recently made it pretty clear he feels the same way I do.
No, it's not what you're thinking. We simply shared a "moment" (corny as it sounds). It was like in the movies when the music soars, the man and woman suddenly lock eyes and slowly move in for "the kiss." In fact, that's exactly what happened -- but I pulled away.
I don't know why I hesitated. I have fantasized about that moment for the longest time. But when it finally happened, I couldn't go through with it.
Now when I see him, I ache inside. It's a different kind of pain than anything I've ever experienced. I desperately need your help. I'm not even sure what I'm asking. I'm afraid if I'm ever again in a position to kiss him, I might just do it, and I'm afraid of where it would lead. Any advice? -- ACHING AND ANXIOUS IN NEW JERSEY
DEAR ACHING AND ANXIOUS: You appear to be a sensible and honorable woman. You and I both know you and this man are swimming in dangerous waters. The wisest thing you can do is to remove yourself from any situation that could tempt you both and cause future pain, embarrassment or regret. If that means a change of employment, so be it.