'My girlfriend has stopped talking to me...'

Dear Diana,
I'm 28 and work in a travel agency. I have been in a relationship with a girl at my work place for over two years. My family is pestering me to get married and are bride hunting. I told my girlfriend about it and how I will have to go with my family's wishes. Ever since she started maintaining a distance from me. It's almost a month now and we hardly talk to each other. Why did she take offence to what I said?
- Rehan

Illustrations/Amit Bandre

Dear Rehan,
It's obvious that your affair with your colleague is a well-kept secret from your family. You have been with her for over two years. If you were serious about her, you would have told your family about her. By telling your girlfriend about abiding by your folk's wishes, you have made it clear that your relationship with her is going no where. It's right on her part to maintain a distance. She was thinking of a future together, while for you it was just an office affair. You have created the mess, so you clear it. Try striking a conversation with her and explain things to her. Before that, tell your folks that you already have someone on your mind, so that they stop looking for a bride for you.