Dear Miss Emily:

I know this girl who is a very good friend of mine.  We have become very close since meeting on a study abroad trip last January.  We have spent a lot of time together, at one point she was spending the night. Then she became very distant for a couple months.  Once we got back from Christmas break she wanted to hang out often.  We became closer, again, cuddling on the couch for hours watching movies but never spent the night.  Then she wouldn't get close enough to hold.  We had a talk and she said that she loves being with me and spending time together, but she cannot be in a relationship right now.  She has been dealing with a crazy ex-boyfriend also.  However, despite all this she still calls everyday and we spend time together several times a week -- sometimes until early morning or all night, but she never stays over.  I feel like she has strong feelings for me like I do for her.  I would do anything to be with her.  Any ideas what may be going on?  Thank you!

---------------------------------Miss Emily's advice-------------------------

She's got unfinished business with this "crazy ex boyfriend" and until that's over, or she returns to him, you'd be better off not getting too involved with her and hoping she'll come around. She may, but it's best to listen to her words (no "relationship" available to you), and act accordingly. I am sure she gets warm and fuzzy feelings, and great strokes from the friendship she has with you, but don't even think of giving her your heart before she gets things settled in her life. Maintain a friendship, but keep a physical distance. It's for your own good. I get many letters from broken hearts who are licking wounds after the person they loved returned to the "crazy ex."