A driving secret

DEAR ANNIE >> For the past two months, I’ve been dating a man; let’s call him “Matt.” Matt, like me, is in his early 30s. He is a manager at a local coffee shop, which doesn’t sound too exciting, but he’s actually really passionate about it. I find that more attractive than someone’s working at a big-time corporation but hating it.

Anyway, Matt and I have been on about six dates, and I’ve really enjoyed each one. But I’m starting to suspect that he’s hiding something. I think that he doesn’t have a driver’s license.

Every time we’ve gone out, I’ve driven or we’ve taken public transportation or used a ride-hailing service. He’s had excuses week after week. First it was that he’d lent his car to his little brother for two weeks to go on a cross-country road trip. Now it’s supposedly been in the shop for over a month. He doesn’t drink, so I have no way of sneaking a peek to see whether he has a driver’s license when we go out.

I’m wondering whether I should confront Matt about the issue or just wait for him to come clean. I don’t mind driving or taking cabs (he always offers to pay for my gas or the fares), but I don’t like being lied to. What gives? Happy birthday: for Saturday, April 29. This year you can be cold and intellectual or warm and emotional. You express your feelings in a way that others can respond to. You also enjoy many different pastimes. If you are single, you could meet someone who could be significant to your life. You are likely to change because of knowing this person. If you are attached, the two of you seem to naturally surprise each other. The friendship that exists between you is as important as the romance. CANCER has feelings that make sense to you. Aries (March 21-April 19): ★★★★ You add snap, crackle and pop to others’ days. Conversations flow with most people, DEAR MYSTIFIED >> It’s possible there’s a personal reason for his not driving that he’s not ready to reveal at this stage in the relationship. For instance, he may have lost his license because of a DUI and then decided to stop drinking. Or he may just be telling you the truth. Wait a few more weeks to see whether he opens up on his own accord. If not, steer the conversation there yourself. Politely but directly ask him what’s up with the no-driving thing. He’ll come clean, or he’ll reassure you that he’s telling the truth. (Your gut will let you know whether it’s the whole truth.) If he becomes defensive and enraged over a simple question, time to throw it in reverse and back out of this relationship. DEAR ANNIE >> This is a comment on the letter from “Tea Party Planners,” who were wondering whether they should note on the invitation that there is a charge. A reader subsequently responded that he or she thinks it’s rude to charge guests for anything, saying that if you can’t afford to throw a party, you should find something else to do with your friends.

When our daughter was getting married in London last summer, her bridesmaids wanted to have a tea in the bride’s honor. Those women who would be traveling except a loved one who seems to have withdrawn from you. You might want to stay levelheaded when dealing with this person. Tonight: You could go a little wild and overindulge. Taurus (April 20-May 20): ★★★ Do some shopping and errands that can’t be put off any longer. You’ll see a situation differently when a confidant shares his or her viewpoint. You might feel sad or want to help; however, you have difficulty sharing those feelings. Tonight: Out on the town. Gemini (May 21-June 20): ★★★★★ Do not overthink your plans; just be spontaneous. The more adventurous you are, the better your day will be. A friend surprises you with news that seems to come from out of left from out of town were also invited. When I first was contacted via email about this idea, the young woman told me upfront what the cost would be for me and the special rate available for my two young granddaughters. I confirmed that I would be paying for the three of us and chipping in to help cover the bride’s part. Later, I received the “formal” invitation via email, and I RSVP’d.

I am from a generation that would never charge guests to attend a formal party (let alone invite guests via email), but I didn’t have a problem with the approach at all. I could have declined right from the beginning of the plan. Being part of such a lovely British high tea at an elegant hotel was wonderful for all of us in attendance. I don’t even like tea, but the tray of goodies was to die for. It would have been my loss if I had declined because it wasn’t what I was accustomed to. DEAR GLAD >> I appreciate your open-minded attitude to the newer generation’s ways. Your letter has reminded me that fun comes much more easily when we let go of hangups about how things “should” be done and trust in others’ good intentions. field. At first, you’ll have a strong reaction, but it won’t last long. Tonight: Make it your treat. Cancer (June 21-July 22): ★★★ If you don’t want to be part of what is happening, just make a call and let others know you will not be showing up. You might need some downtime, which you do not get enough of. Make it a high priority to free up some more time for yourself. Tonight: The world is your oyster. Leo (July 23-Aug. 22): ★★★ Take your time making a decision, as it could have long-term implications. News from a distance will encourage you to detach a bit from a difficult friendship. You probably are hurt by the other party’s recent attitude; this too shall pass. Tonight: Focus on what you want. Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): ★★★★ Emphasis is on what you want from a parent or boss. Handle your responsibilities early on in the day. As a result, you will feel better and have some time to yourself later. Know that you might have to deal with someone who is withholding his or her feelings. Tonight: Out and about. Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): ★★★★ If you’re feeling uncomfortable during a conversation with a certain friend or relative, detach. Go through the process of taking a step back and getting an overview. Afterward, you will feel much better. Tonight: Excess marks your evening. You might have too good of a time. Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): ★★★★ Deal directly with a close friend or loved one. This person enjoys his or her time with you. You both often surprise each other with your attitude. A financial matter needs discussing, no matter which way you look at it. Tonight: Let a loved one make the first move for once. Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): ★★★★ If you decide that a situation is going to be difficult, you can count on it being problematic. You see life very differently from how many other people do. What bothers you might not even be a consideration to someone else. Tonight: An invitation is simply too tempting to turn down. Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): ★★★★ Clear out what you must as soon as you can. A loved one has plans for you. At first, you might have a negative reaction, but once you process your feelings, you are likely to discover that what you are projecting has nothing to do with the situation. Tonight: Dinner for two. Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): ★★★★★ Immerse yourself in the daylight hours, when you can let out your inner child. Be aware that a friend might feel disappointed and cop an attitude. You might have no other choice than to respond to this person. Stay as sensitive as you can. Tonight: Know when to calm down. Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20): ★★★★ A respected relative might tell you that what you want is close to impossible. This person could be very demanding, and you will want to stand up for yourself. Just complete your plans as quickly as possible. Once you free yourself up, the fun begins. Tonight: Go with the flow. Born today: Singer/songwriter Willie Nelson (1933), publisher William Randolph Hearst (1863), actress Michelle Pfeiffer (1958)