DEAR ABBY: I have had an unusually close bond with my son's best friend, "Chad." We talk several times a week and enjoy each other's company. Chad is 17. I am 45. He has always made me feel special.
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Recently I chaperoned a school dance, and he was there. While checking the back hallway, I saw him kissing a girl. I was stunned by my reaction. I broke down in front of them. I sobbed like a teen-ager whose boyfriend was cheating on her. Other students and adults also witnessed my unfortunate display of emotions. Now I am afraid to talk with Chad -- and he's made no effort to call me.
Abby, I honestly don't know how to explain myself. I am afraid this will affect Chad's friendship with my son, as well. I do not want to lose my relationship with this wonderful young man, whom I dearly love. What do I do now? -- EMOTIONAL MOM IN PASADENA, CALIF.
DEAR EMOTIONAL MOM: I think you have done enough. It's time to put some distance between you and this lad. You didn't mention whether or not you have a husband. If you are single, it's time to concentrate your energies on someone closer to your own age.