DEAR ABBY: I have a great job working with people I enjoy, and probably the coolest boss in the world. There is just one little problem. He keeps asking me to go out with his daughter.
She is a wonderful person, smart and absolutely beautiful -- but she is also recently divorced. I'm afraid I would just be the "in-between" guy for her -- a stepping-stone to her recovery. In other words, whatever happens would be at my expense.
How can I politely tell my boss that I cannot date his daughter? -- REALIST IN UTAH
DEAR REALIST: Tell him you are flattered, that you think his daughter is smart and absolutely beautiful and a wonderful person. Then tell him you know how painful a divorce can be and you would prefer to wait until she is emotionally back on her feet and has gotten her bearings before inviting her out.
Do not completely reject the idea because in six months or a year, if she is still available, you may change your mind.