Dear Auntie Kate:

I recently told my second cousin I had  feelings for him and he told me that he had feelings for me but  the next day he acted really weird. He was quiet and barley  talked to me. This is the exact opposite of how he acted before I told him. Before, we talked more, we flirted more, and we  wrestled more (as in playing). Now, I just regret telling him. Is this normal for him to act this way.

Dear 2nd,

Well dear, I am sorry that you have regrets. I think you should feel good for having done the best thing for both of you. Wouldn't it be terrible to fall deeply in love even before he knew it? You know that little cousins do get pressure not to be too close, in case they break the taboo of falling for each other. Your little cousin feels that pressure. Letting him know that your physical closeness was having an effect on you probably gave him reason to realize that he was growing up - and you were too. Give him some room to sort out his feelings. Maybe now that he knows that you are a girl who considers him attractive in THAT way, he'll take his physical and social contact with you more seriously. You know, I bet you will always be his favorite little cousin. He'll be fantasizing about wrestling with you in just a few months. Your Aunt Kate promises. In the mean time dear, adults always reminisce about the innocence and freedom of childhood. The little growing up steps feel funny as you go through them. Trust your Auntie, you've done the best thing for your heart. Remember, you have many, many years ahead as cousins.

Your Aunt Kate