Hi again Nat
Do you want to 'disappear'/drop out of contact from him? No, so don't, as that would purely be game playing, get you no closer to the answers you seek, and just serve to confuse him as well.
The skepticism other posters voice on her with respect to his marital status is understandable, given his sudden 'absences' and dropping out of communication around important holidays (Christmas, New Year). Your most recent post suggests, however, that you have 'checked this out' to your satisfaction, right?
In the beginning of most relationships, regardless of whether they are established online or in 'real life', we want to believe the best of the other person. After all, we have no history with them to suggest we need believe otherwise, and the intoxicating effect of being attracted to someone who makes
us feel attractive serves as a 'lens' through which we view the object of our affection (rose tinted glasses, if you like). I share this so that you are aware that your overall favourable impression, willingness to accept what he tells you, and reluctance to question him, may be greater (and slightly distorted) when compared to that of third parties (such as other posters) who are not invested in him being what he says he is. Something to consider.
Finally, you sound like you want to move forward with him but are unsure how. I'd try simple, direct honest verbal communication i.e. not text based (you need to be able to
hear his responses, tone of voice, any pauses, hesitation etc). Let him know that you initially experienced your beginnings as a bit of a whirlwind and that he came on a bit thick and strong for your liking, but that now that he is 'putting the brakes on'/distancing himself in your opinion, you miss his attentions and realise how open you are to the possibility of pursuing a relationship (offline as well as online). Ask him where he stands with this idea now.
Given the amount of time and energy you are investing into communication with him, you deserve to know where (if anywhere) it is heading. Are you going to meet in person and, importantly, when? Is he interested in the possibility of an exclusive relationship? Once you have answers to these questions, you will be better equipped to decide whether you want to cease or continue contact.
I hope this helps Nat!
Dale
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