I really like this guy. (Getty Images) Getty Images Abigail Van Buren DEAR ABBY: I really like this guy. He makes me so happy.

He told me he is attracted to me, but he doesn’t want a relationship with me. When we spend time together, we always have a great time. When I reach out to him, he doesn’t always respond right away, but he treats me wonderfully when he does.

I really want us to date -- not have a “relationship,” just date. How can I tell him that? -- FALLING HARD FOR HIM DEAR FALLING HARD: This guy may have the same thing in mind as you do. There may be reasons you should be aware of as to why he doesn’t always respond to you in a timely fashion.

He may need to concentrate on school, his job or another girlfriend. It would be in your best interests to know why. Since you would be willing to date him under the circumstances you described, speak up, and see how he reacts.

Stories by Abigail Van Buren Dear Abby: Questioning future with boyfriend due to his dependent son’s antics Dear Abby: Gift suggestions for daughter’s self-funded second marriage? Dear Abby: Jealous over husband’s new female singer in his band Dear Abby: Caught cousin’s creepy romantic messages to my divorced mom Dear Abby: Strained relationship after fight with sister facing risky procedure ** ** ** Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.

com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Ang.