When I go on dates with men, many of them try to hold my hand in public. I find it hard to say no because I worry they might feel offended if I say, “Someone I know might see us…” Is there a good way to turn them down? I’d appreciate any advice…

I’m Saito, a columnist ♪ I agree with Maezawa-san’s opinion. I was about to write, “Why don’t you just break up…?” but after reading Maezawa-san’s post, I had to reconsider. I hope you’re able to maintain a good relationship.

Maezawa here. > If I turn him down by saying, “Because I might run into someone I know…” do you think he’ll be offended? That’s a difficult one. Still, I think it’s perfectly fine to say no when there’s a chance you might run into someone you know. He might feel a little hurt, but… For example, you could say something like, “I can’t here because someone I know might see us, but let’s be more intimate when we’re alone together.” That way, I feel like you can always make up for it later. Some men may want to hold hands in public because they want to feel closer. But if he knows it bothers you, I think there are also men who would hold back. It’s wonderful to be considerate of a man’s feelings, but I don’t think you should overdo it to the point of exhausting yourself.