DEAR ABBY: I’ve been seeing “Ronald” for a little more than a year. He’s nine years older than I am, and we don’t really have a lot in common. He has feelings for me, but I don’t feel the same toward him. He has helped me out a lot financially and doesn’t expect me to pay him back.

The problem is, I have met someone else. “Jack” and I have so much in common. We knew a lot of the same people when we were younger. He recognized me after I showed him a picture from my younger days.

We both have feelings for each other. He’s a year younger than I am. I just don’t know what to do. Please help. — MIXED-UP IN THE SOUTH

DEAR MIXED-UP: Be an adult. Summon the courage to tell Ronald that you have reconnected with someone you knew years ago, and you would like to pursue it.

Explain that you are being upfront because you feel it wouldn’t be fair or honest to keep him in the dark. Then thank him for his friendship and his help and tell him you are grateful for the kindness and generosity he has shown you.

Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.