Would dating my friend's girlfriend's sister be awkward?

[Anonymous]

This has kinda been on my mind lately. Anyway, I've been friends with this one guy for quite some time now, and he lives with his girlfriend and their 5 year old son. They want to get married here soon, but for now, they're just boyfriend and girlfriend, but also parents. The girlfriends' sister just moved in with them somewhat recently. I had met her before at the kid's birthday parties, but I never knew her that well since she lived in another state, but now lives closeby to me and with them. I think she's really cool, and I do know she's single. If she wasn't my friend's girlfriend's sister, I would definitely ask her out without question and give her a chance. But since she is, that could complicate things. I would still want to be on good terms with those other friends of mine since I do consider his girlfriend a friend of mine too. I believe the girlfriend is very smart, has a great sense of humor, is a great mom, and is easy to talk to, and I think her sister could be very similar. What do you think?

[Screenwriter]

There is no way to know what her sister is like unless you tell your friend you're interested in asking his girlfriend's sister out. See how he reacts. It doesn't sound like a no-go to me.

However, I would not expect the sister to me a copy of the girlfriend, even if they are from the same family.

I would suggest you keep your expectations modest and allow your dating experience with the sister inform you as to who she really is and if she's appropriate for you.

The thing you have to be careful about is this: IF it doesn't work out, keep on good terms with both women. Have at least three dates before you decide she isn't your type, then call it a day politely.

"I've enjoyed dating you, Carmen, but I think only friendship is in the cards for us." Smile, shake hands and go home.

Three dates won't hurt either of you. Make them coffee/talking/walking dates. You want to pick her brains about who she is and what she likes. Good luck.

[Asker]

Thank you for your answer. It is true that they wouldn't be the exact same person, but I've talked to her before and I know a little bit about her. One thing's for certain, despite my future action/inaction about it: She will make someone very happy. I just am not sure if my friend and his girlfriend would consider it awkward if I did it.

[Screenwriter]

Ask your friend. He can certainly know what his woman would think, in general.

I don't see it as an issue UNLESS the dating or relationship goes sour. THAT is the only thing you have to be cautious about. You don't want bad relations with the sister of the woman your friend is with.

YOu want to be able to come and go with your friend and his girlfriend and not be on the outs with the sister you're interested in.

I don't think you have to ask permission, per se. Talk to the girl and see if she's interested in you. If she is, chat with HER about what her feelings are about dating you and more, if that would happen.

It sounds like YOU are uncomfortable or ambivalent about the possible situation. But it's onlu "possible." Why jump the gun? See where or IF this goes anywhere. Until it IS a relationship, I don't see where you have to worry.

[Nikki1989]

I think you need to act your age.

[Asker]

No offense, but that's not a helpful answer. I would still want to be on good terms with my friend and his girlfriend and dating the girlfriend's sister could cause uncertainties, which is why I ask this. I feel it is possible I'd have something to lose and there would be some risk here.