Annie’s Mailbox: Your Internet love interest not honest

Dear Annie: A year ago, I fell in love with “Bobby” over the Internet. Two months later, he said he loved me. I was stunned. But a little later, he told me he was in a relationship and the girl was suicidal. He was afraid that if he broke it off, she’d kill herself. I’ve had suicidal thoughts myself and understood.

Bobby sent me wonderful messages that made me feel terrific. I was happier than ever, even though he was terribly depressed about his situation. We made a promise that as long as we had each other, we wouldn’t kill ourselves. After a while, I lost all desire to hurt myself. He gave me a reason to live.

But, Annie, sometimes Bobby acts like a player. He flirts with other women. When I get upset, he always apologizes. I checked his online profile and saw messages to and from his current girlfriend. In one, he told her he “wasn’t ready to let go of her and was sorry they broke up.” He never told me they weren’t together anymore.

I posted a message, too, giving him a piece of my mind. But since he’s been suicidal, I worry about him and frequently check to make sure he’s been online and is OK. Whenever people say something mean about him, I always defend him.

The truth is, I still love him, but I’m afraid to talk to him again. Do you think there’s any hope for the two of us, or is this just another book in my life that I have to close? – Desperate for Answers In Michigan

Dear Michigan: Close the book and throw it away. Bobby is not honest, and any relationship with him would eventually involve misery for you. We think you know this. We’re glad you no longer have suicidal thoughts, but if they should return, please get some counseling and talk to someone who can truly help you. You should never rely on another person for your happiness.