Dear Tessa: My Situationship Asked for “Space”

Crisis:
Dear Tessa, the guy I’ve been seeing casually just told me he needs “space.” We’re not even official, so I don’t get it. Does this mean it’s over?

— Floating in Limbo

Straight to the point, the dreaded “space” speech. It’s the universal translation for: “I want the perks of you without the responsibility of explaining myself.” When an actual partner asks for space, it usually means they need breathing room but still want the relationship. When a situationship asks? That’s code for: “I was never fully in, and now I’m halfway out.”

Here’s the truth, situationships thrive on ambiguity. He got the attention, the vibes, the late-night texts, maybe more. Now that the feelings are creeping closer to “What are we?”, he’s reaching for the eject button labeled “space.” And spoiler: that button almost always launches him into someone else’s DMs.

What should you do? Nothing. Don’t wait around hoping space turns into clarity. If he wanted you, he wouldn’t risk losing you to “time apart.” Let him orbit on his own. You? You deserve someone who doesn’t need space to realize your worth.

Final Thought: In relationships, “space” can be healthy. In a situationship, it’s just a fancy exit sign.

Disclaimer: Menace Mail is written with equal parts sarcasm, savage honesty, and a little too much iced coffee. These answers are not licensed therapy (shocking, I know), just unfiltered perspective. If it stings, maybe that’s the point. It is pure satire and for entertainment purposes only. The scenarios, “advice,” and commentary are exaggerated, over-the-top, and not meant to be taken literally. If you’re here for actual relationship guidance, you’re in the wrong inbox and on the wrong blog.