Dear Abby
Dear Abby,
I have run into a modern dating-etiquette problem.
Having recently begun using an online dating service, I've been out with a number of men. In the past week, I went on a second date with a nice young gentleman whom I'd have been perfectly happy to see again . . . except that I've unexpectedly found myself deciding on exclusivity with another. Up until today my behavior has been circumspect, but since I didn't have any inkling that I'd be exclusive so soon, I didn't warn the first gentleman that this may happen.
That gentleman has, quite flatteringly, invited me out once again. Obviously, Abby, I will have to decline and let him know that I'm not available but appreciate the invitation. What is the correct way to express this? (Preferably in a way that lets him know that I enjoyed the time we spent together; doesn't make it seem like I was leading him on; and maybe leaves an opening for the unlikely potential future where he's still single and my current situation doesn't work out, just in case.)
In high demand,
servalan
ETA: I'm looking for the politely worded phrases, not the sentiment. Because clearly I want to say what I've written above. I just want to say it in the appropriate manner. Never having had to write such a letter (way better than calling because English is NOT this man's first language), I'm entirely unsure of the approach and tone to take.
I have run into a modern dating-etiquette problem.
Having recently begun using an online dating service, I've been out with a number of men. In the past week, I went on a second date with a nice young gentleman whom I'd have been perfectly happy to see again . . . except that I've unexpectedly found myself deciding on exclusivity with another. Up until today my behavior has been circumspect, but since I didn't have any inkling that I'd be exclusive so soon, I didn't warn the first gentleman that this may happen.
That gentleman has, quite flatteringly, invited me out once again. Obviously, Abby, I will have to decline and let him know that I'm not available but appreciate the invitation. What is the correct way to express this? (Preferably in a way that lets him know that I enjoyed the time we spent together; doesn't make it seem like I was leading him on; and maybe leaves an opening for the unlikely potential future where he's still single and my current situation doesn't work out, just in case.)
In high demand,
servalan
ETA: I'm looking for the politely worded phrases, not the sentiment. Because clearly I want to say what I've written above. I just want to say it in the appropriate manner. Never having had to write such a letter (way better than calling because English is NOT this man's first language), I'm entirely unsure of the approach and tone to take.