Dr Love with Mid-Day: I’ve initiated every date we have gone on

Illustration/Uday Mohite

A few weeks ago, I was introduced to a guy through a common friend. We went on a date and had a good time. Since then, we have met two more times, and I feel as if there may be something between us. The problem is he doesn't stay in touch after our dates end. He doesn't message or call and only responds when I reach out or ask if we should meet again. This isn't about my ego because I am perfectly okay initiating our meetings, but I wonder if I am forcing him to do something he doesn't want to. Should I ask him if he doesn't want to go on a date or stay silent until he messages first? Is this normal behaviour?
If you want to know where this is going, the best thing to do is ask because you have nothing to lose. You are not in a relationship yet, and dating is about figuring out whether this is working. It isn't about your ego as much as it is about establishing the rules of what you want this to become. To embark upon a relationship of any kind is to give the other person a chance to know you and vice versa, and asking questions is always the easiest way of figuring this out. If there aren't any mutual feelings here, the sooner you both know, the better.

How do I handle it when girls flirt with my boyfriend in front of me and he doesn't stop them? I don't want to come across as too touchy so I don't say anything, but he should be more aware about this and do it on his own. What should I tell him?
If you don't like something, you have to speak up because that's the best way to establish boundaries. Yes, your boyfriend should be able to understand this on his own but, given that he clearly hasn't, tell him why his behaviour is disrespectful towards you and ask him to stop it.

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