I met “Jarod” on Hinge last year and we instantly hit it off. Went out all the time, talked on the phone constantly, he’d come over and we’d watch movies and cuddle, etc. It’s cheesy but we both agreed we were like each others male/female counter parts. I was 100% myself around him he just made me so comfortable.

From the beginning I was very open with him about never wanting to get married, not being ready for a relationship, wanting something casual, etc. At some point he asked if I was seeing anyone else and I told him no though shortly after had a conversation with him where I explained that I don’t think I’m ready for an exclusive relationship. Which was true, I’m still single. But there were also just things about him that told me I knew I didn’t want to be with him in that way. Nothing bad, just not for me.

He was ok with that and said that he still wanted to be a part of my life so we cut off ALL physical/romantic intimacy of any kind. Months passed and I started seeing a new guy recently. Jarod found out and cracked a few jokes but then texted me later saying he needed to distance himself from me because he’s in love with me and it’s not healthy for him when I’ve made it clear it’s not going to happen. Not even 24 hours later he messages again saying to forget it and that he missed talking to me. He’s even said a few times that he’s waiting for me to change my mind.

For Christmas, he got me a $150 bag, a $250 nespresso machine, and $100 cash. Absolutely ridiculous and I tried like hell to make him take it back. He wouldn’t. My birthday is coming up so tonight he stopped by and gave me a $350 gift card to a local spa. Again he refused to take it back despite my efforts.

Im starting to feel like I can’t be any clearer with him that’s it’s not going to happen between him and I. Hes a wonderful guy and truly a best friend but I think I need to step back and potentially cut him off so he can move on. We don’t see each other often anymore and I thought that would help but it hasn’t.

I also have two young children and he told me (after we broke up) that he can’t have kids and prayed for God to send him a family right before him and I met. I feel like he’s convinced himself we’re meant to be together.

What the hell do I do??