DEAR ABBY: I am a college sophomore and have a boyfriend, although we keep our relationship to ourselves. I get asked out a few times a week by other boys who are clearly interested.
My boyfriend doesn't mind that I have male friends, but my problem is the other boys are never direct about their intentions. Usually, they'll say it's to "hang out" or "grab dinner" -- very casual, vague invitations. To accept would make me feel I'm leading them on somehow, but to refuse "because I have a boyfriend" would make it look like I'm jumping to conclusions about them.
Is there a polite way to tell someone that you're seeing someone -- without being accusatory -- but that you would still like to be friends? -- JUMPING TO CONCLUSIONS
DEAR JUMPING: Say it this way: "I'd love to, but, you know, I have a boyfriend. Would that be a problem for you?" If the boy says no -- then go. If he hits on you after that, tell him you think he's great, but you want to be friends -- one can never have enough friends -- and you're not looking for another romance. If the boy respects you, he'll accept it and not try again while you and your boyfriend are together.