The Juliet Dilemma

Advice

"I think we have a lot to talk about." Kate Cameron smiled as she spoke but every teen feared these words leaving their mom's lips. Romeo groaned.

"About what exactly?" He wanted to pretend that he didn't know what she was talking about.

"Are you having relationship problems, sweetie?" His mom asked.

"I don't know... Maybe." Romeo cocked his head as he shrugged.

Kate patted the seat next to her on the couch. "Tell me all about it. It's Juliet, right?"

Romeo sat down. "Yeah it's Julie. I really like her and I think she really likes me..." He left the sentence hanging.

"But?"

"But I don't want to lose her. What if I screw up again and hurt her feelings or we have a bad break up? I can't imagine not at least being her friend. Last time she was mad at me was awful. I can't do that again." Romeo admitted.

"So you're wasting time by not even trying? Romeo..." Kate frowned.

"I've been trying! Honestly I am!" Romeo told her.

"Do you really like her?" Kate asked.

He nodded. "I really do."

"Do you want to spend as much time as you can with her?" Kate wondered.

He nodded again. "Yeah..."

"Then discuss furthering the relationship with her." His mother stated. "Listen, honey, our family is known for having a bit of bad luck with relationships. Nick's fiancée died and your father died. I wasted years with Michael because neither of us could ask each other out. That's time I can never get back. I wish I could." Her frown deepened. She wrapped her arms around her son. "It taught me that time is precious and something not to waste. Whatever happens with this girl well, you'll regret the things you didn't do more than the things you did. Don't let time just slip by."

"Yeah... But-" Romeo began, not quite sure of what he wanted to say.

"I just don't want you to be afraid of taking chances. Regrets are something awful you have to live with. Someday you could be married and successful and happy and that's what I want for you. I don't want you to avoid the tough stuff. Understand, Ro?"

Romeo nodded before giving his mom a hug. "Yeah thanks, Mom."

Kate smiled. "It's my job. Now let's go help Nick with dinner and you can tell me more about this last month.