Dear miss Emily,
 
I am 16. I have been with my boyfriend for almost 8 months now, which is a long time for me because I don't want to take high school relationships too seriously. But this guy is super sweet and absolutely adores me; but it's on the line of obsessive and extremely clingy. I do love him as a person but I haven't been feeling the relationship for quite some time now. A few weeks ago I tried breaking it off and he just sat on my couch and cried! And my heart broke! I could not do that to him..... But now I'm more miserable than ever. Especially since the guy I've liked for 3 years now has expressed how much he really likes me. This guy is incredible. And we click so well. He's been one of my best guy friends and I'm super attracted to him. He's so sweet and I have the best time with him. I know my feelings for him are super strong since they have lasted through three years of being with other guys. My current boyfriend always wants to pick fights and never wants to do anything except chill at my hous and I'm not happy with him anymore. And I know I would be happy with the other guy. But I'm so afraid of hurting my boyfriend by breaking up. What should I do???

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

There's no way of avoiding hurting someone when it comes to matters of the heart. We humans get emotionally involved and that, inherently, comes with risk. Some relationships, as well as friendships are not meant to last forever. You shouldn't allow him to hold you hostage to this relationship because he can't seem to handle the break-up. And what's the alternative -- staying with him at your expense because he's emotionally fragile? His obsession with you and his clingy nature are signs of low self-esteem, and only he can fill that void. You cannot be a crutch for him. I don't think that's good for either of you. He should not want your pity, and that's what he's getting from you. No. You need to make the break, and he needs to find a way to heal and deal with his insecurities. It will take time, but he will move on. I know he's a sweet guy, but that is not a reason to stay with him. You have every right to pursue this other relationship. The longer you stay with your current boyfriend, the more resentful you'll feel. You are a good person, and what you are doing is something that is played out all over the world, each and everyday. You are among many in this situation, but you should do something about it before it gets out of hand.