I think you both need to have an open and honest discussion about what each of you want. Not expectations or how long it's been or what his family think.
If you aren't on the same page and can't compromise to meet somewhere in the middle then it might be time to consider options.
In my opinion though I think your partner has an unfair amount of pressure on him for this. Why do you even know when he bought a ring and where it is? Did he ask for your opinion or show you prior or did you find it?
There is so much pressure on men to do the perfect proposal that's social media worthy with an expensive ring that so much of the meaning gets lost - do you want to marry this person or do you just want to be married
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Can I ask how you know he bought it and returned it?
Are there any current financial issues that could stop him wanting to pay for a ring/wedding?
Have you two had any fights/issues recently or felt him pulling away?
Honestly, if it was me, I'd feel horrible and that definitely he didn't want me and start questioning it all. I'd actually expect a VERY good response.
It's been 10 years, sure you were kids so lets say it only counts since 18 and you're adults, that's still 7 years! 2 years living together is quite a while I think to simply propose and move up a step... Not like you get married next week.
Has he ever mentioned being anti-marriage etc?
Stop pressuring him. You only feel this way because you and his family keep pressuring him. Leave him alone and let him do it on his own time.
Also, you're 25. A lot of guys aren't in a rush to get married at the age and, honestly, you shouldn't be, either. Being together for 10 years isn't a justification for him to propose. In fact, that's a terrible one, especially since you said you guys have been on and off for 10 years, even if you have been living together for 2. Let him decide when is right for him. You kind of sound like you're only thinking of yourself. Your reasoning for wanting to get married is flimsy and isn't the sign of someone who is ready for marriage.
If he isn't ready to propose to you after you two been together
off and on for 10 years than I would think maybe your better to
move on. I don't see no use to try salvaging something that you
don't really know that is for sure. If he took the ring back than he
is unsure about things.
I could never be in a off and on relationship for 10 years with a girl
who can't make her mind up. My ex girlfriend gave me back her ring
after she broke up with me that was only 5 days engagement but i do
believe it was for the best.
You can't blame a guy for being averse to marrying in this day and age. But then again he shouldn't string someone on for that long without making his intentions clear. You should get it out of him whether he actually wants to marry or not. When he gives you his answer, you make the best of it in whatever way suits you best.
Sidequestion, what is stopping you from proposing?
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How would you feel if a whole bunch of people -- your partner included -- were pressuring you into something like this?
It doesn't seem like he wants to get married. You can stay with him or you can leave and find somebody who is interested in getting married soon.
If I were in your situation I wouldn't be dating a guy for ten years and not be married.
Stop pressuring him and just let him be.
he seems unsure about what he wants
He's telling the truth
Both
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