BEST FRIEND CAN'T HANDLE FRIENDLY REJECTION

Hey Harlan,

My best guy friend had a crush on me, but I decided to go out with another guy. Now, my best friend, whom I made it clear to that I never had feelings for, stopped talking to me. I really miss him and have tried talking to him with no response. What should I do?

Crushed

Dear Crushed,

Whoa, that's not too friendly. Here's the problem - your best friend never gave you permission to reject him. The only answer he wanted from you was, "Yes." And that's a big no-no. Explain to him that you miss the friendship and him. Make it clear that you're flattered and that he doesn't need to feel uncomfortable. Ask him to give you permission to be his friend - and not his girlfriend. Give him time to get comfortable with the uncomfortable and see if he can see handle being your friend. If he can't, appreciate that he's not looking for a friend, just a girlfriend.