Been where you are. Beautiful human, real warmth, and your brain starts writing a future. It’s honest. It’s also how hearts get bruised.
Here’s what saved me: feelings can be true while the frame stays professional. If she wants anything off-clock, she’ll show you without a nudge—unprompted messages, time that isn’t tied to a booking. If that isn’t happening, believe what is happening.
I tried chasing once. It turned me into “client with a crush.” Didn’t feel good. What did: be generous, be easy to host, no pressure, no tests. Leave her better than you found her, then keep your centre.
When your chest gets loud, step back quietly. Space isn’t a trick; it’s first aid. Cling, you must not. Calm, you must be.
If you need a clean line to close the loop:
“Hey—I’ve really enjoyed our time. I’m catching feelings and don’t want to put that on you. Happy to keep it professional, or I’ll take some space. Either way, thank you.”
Say it once, live it, and build your life around more than this.
Your attention has value. Boundaries, spoken once. Dignity over drama. With or without this, you’ll be okay—promise.
To everyone who weighed in: respect. The mix of kindness and guardrails is the medicine here.
Chase peace, not proof. If something real wants you, it will walk toward you. If not—walk on.