Dear PG,

Trust Your Instincts

You say you feel like you are "waiting for the other shoe to drop" -- that's no way to live! What a terrible feeling to have about the person with whom you are supposed to be in a loving relationship.

You Deserve To Be Happy

I understand that this is your first serious relationship. It will take you some time to get over it. But please know that while you are with Mr. X., you will not get the happiness you deserve. What do you deserve? As a human being, you deserve to be in a relationship where you are happy close to ALL of the time, where you feel safe knowing that your partner will never injure you, where honesty is valued.

Violence Is Unacceptable

This is not too much to ask. Do not accept any less. Also, I cannot ignore the fact that Mr. X. hit you. This is NOT OKAY. I know you know this, or you wouldn't have moved back to California. But that you're thinking of continuing with this guy makes me nervous. Violence is never acceptable.

Wait Before Taking Such Big Steps In The Future, Take Some Time Alone

Time alone won't do it. They need counseling.

Please take some time alone to get over this relationship. Hopefully, you have friends and

family who can help you out. Also -- the Internet is a fine way to meet someone, but please make sure there is time in there to date each other (while living in the same town) before you make such a big step as to move in together.

- Gillian