Could lockdown chats over the fence bring romance?

Dear Coleen

I’m a woman aged 32 and I live on my own. During lockdown I’ve been chatting to my male neighbour over the fence that separates our gardens. The weather has been good, so we’ve both been outside a lot and just got talking one day.

I didn’t really know him prior to this – just to say hello to in the street. However, over the past few weeks we’ve become really friendly and have even “got together” a few times for a glass of wine and talked for hours late into the night.

I think I’m really starting to fall for this man but, the thing is, he’s only 25, so there’s a bit of an age gap and he also has a daughter with his ex-girlfriend.

Also, I haven’t had a serious relationship for a few years and I’m very out of practice when it comes to dating.

My last relationship started when I was 22 and ended when I was 27, and I haven’t met anyone special since, although I’ve had a few hook-ups and short-lived flings.

Do you think my neighbour will think I’m a crazy older lady if I flirted or suggested meeting for a date when all this is over? Seven years feels like quite a big age gap. Any thoughts?

Coleen says

First of all, I don’t think seven years is a big deal, especially not at the ages you are. However, I wouldn’t put loads of pressure on yourself right now because you can’t meet up with him for a drink or a meal anyway.

We’re all in this weird situation and craving contact with other people for company and comfort. Having said that, we find love in all kinds of situations and sometimes it’s the scenario that provides the opportunity instead of you being the one to create it.

It could be, when we’re allowed out, that he’s the one who suggests meeting up. What’s great is that you’ve got to know each other over several weeks – you haven’t just picked out his photo online. But just be aware that it’s a bit like a holiday romance right now because the outside world doesn’t really exist – we’re in our little bubbles. So I’d say, don’t look too far ahead, enjoy spending time together and let it go whichever way it’s meant to.

Keep up the chats over the fence, which sound lovely, and the friendship will either grow into something or it won’t. As for flirting, you’re probably flirting already because that’s what you do when you’re attracted to someone.

I’m falling for this guy but the age gap concerns me