I got rejected by this younger co-worker who then offered friendship. I may have triggered her childhood trauma. Girls, how should I deal with this?

kramchancel

After months of trying to know her as a person, I asked her if she liked me. She rejected me and put me in the friendzone. I respected her decision and avoided her as much as possible.

The rejection broke my heart. I couldn't look her in the eyes, which was something I liked doing with her before the rejection. She, on the other hand, for reasons unknown, was more attentive to me. Every time I showed up at work unannounced, she tried to insert herself into conversations she was not a part of. She would often answer questions I asked of someone. I ignored her all throughout this event. I was depressed.

I wanted to start my healing process, so I changed my schedule so I wouldn't get to see her anymore. After two weeks, I discovered that she had taken a leave of absence due to "school", to which I don't believe at all. After months of not seeing her, I realized that perhaps I was a bit harsh on her. A female friend of mine later told me that girls hate it when they are ignored.

Now she is back at work. I tried to be professional around her, but I sensed tension between us. I realized that I really care about her even though she wasn't really interested in me. So, I decided to text her and apologize for ignoring her. And that I want to see her and offer my apology face-to-face outside of work. She was receptive but mentioned that she is in a relationship and offered friendship again. Now I'm apologizing not because I wanted to change her mind or as some sort of manipulative trick. Still, it made me sad to hear her say that she is in a relationship because when I asked her out, she said she had just gotten out of a long relationship and wasn't ready. It was just another proof that whatever she wants I don't have it. In any case, I want to end my "relationship" with her on a positive note. I'm leaving work (not because of her) and I really don't want her to think that I'm an asshole. Should I explain to her my feelings and why I ignored her or just simply apologize?

I got rejected by this younger co-worker who then offered friendship. I may have triggered her childhood trauma. Girls, how should I deal with this?
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