‘Rhianna’ says she wants a diamond ring or else

Dear Diane: “Rhianna” and I have dated for five years. I love her so much that last week I proposed to her. Although I’m a hard worker, I don’t have a lot of money, so I bought her a fake diamond ring.

At first I didn’t tell her that the reason I bought a fake was because she’s also demanding that we have a very expensive wedding, and I cannot afford to give her both. But then, I realized that a marriage is supposed to be based on truth and trust. So, two days ago I told Rhianna the truth.

Big mistake.

She freaked out. She said that as a woman, she deserved a big, expensive diamond from her man AND a big wedding. She then told me I had one month to get her a proper diamond engagement ring — or else.

Diane, I would have to go into debt for years and work two full-time jobs to pay for the engagement ring and the wedding she wants.

I love Rhianna with all my heart. She has never been a materialistic person, but she has totally changed with regard to this wedding. What do I do?

— Under an Ultimatum in Utah

Dear Utah: The cost of the wedding is traditionally the responsibility of the bride’s parents — not the groom. If her parents are unable or unwilling to foot the bill, then the COUPLE (not just the groom) is responsible for the cost.

Rhianna is being childish, selfish and unreasonable. This isn’t just HER wedding. The day belongs to you both. If she isn’t willing to shoulder half the burden for the wedding, I doubt she’ll be willing to shoulder her share of the marriage.

Return the ring. Get your money back. Tell Rhianna she needs to recognize that marriage is a partnership. When you proposed, you got down on ONE knee, not both.

If Rhianna doesn’t change her attitude, then find another girlfriend.