Why do people stop talking to you after you reject them?

[Anonymous]

I rejected one of my acquaintances because I’m in a relationship, but I’d still like to be friends and get to know her on a friend level. Ever since, she is cold and kinda avoids me in group settings (she’s also distanced herself from our friend group). Doesn’t respond to my comments on her IG stories. She eventually unfollowed me on all social media and removed me as a follower. When I tried to send her another friend request, she blocked me.

[Anonymous]

She doesn't want to make it worse for you. Believe it or not this is well intended. It's also possible that she feels a little bit awkward about it.

The best way to handle it is if you're truly not bothered by the rejection to say to her. "Hey, I notice you've been avoiding me. I just wanted to let you know there is no hard feelings on my side. I think we just had a misunderstanding so I hope we're cool still. If not, that's too bad, and I guess it's been nice knowing you".

This puts the ball squarely in her court. But it let's her know if the friendship ended it's because she couldn't get passed this, not you. And if she truly values you she will move past this. If she doesn't then you needn't worry because she never really was a friend to begin with so you didn't lose anything.

[ephemeralife]

I think you'll have to respect her decision and let her be. She's protecting herself from getting hurt emotionally and doesn't want the drama of being attached or attracted to you, she's basically detoxing you out of her system... you're a no go zone because you are in a relationship. Ethically she doesn't want go there either (my guess).

Don't invest your time into it. Her actions have given you the answer.

[BarryLiverstone]

She didn’t want you as a friend

[Asker]

So, I’m only good enough to be a boyfriend and not a friend? It makes zero sense.

[BarryLiverstone]

It makes sense. She’s attracted to you so wanted to see if you vibe romantically. You rejected her. So she doesn’t need to add you as a friend. Just move on

[Asker]

But we have mutual friends, so I feel like we should be friends.

[BarryLiverstone]

Nope. You don’t have to. You can be polite in mixed company but no need to work on a friendship with her

[BarryLiverstone]

Why did you ask anon?