DEAR ABBY: I have a friend I sometimes invite over for dinner. Invariably, when I offer him seconds, he’ll say “no thanks, but I’ll take it home.” The same thing happens if I offer him a beer or soda — “No thanks, but I’ll take it home.” It doesn’t feel right to me and I’m not sure how to express that I’m offering this NOW, not as a doggie bag. Or should I stop offering him seconds? He doesn’t have money issues, so he doesn’t need to do this. Do you think I’m overreacting? — BAFFLED IN CALIFORNIA

DEAR BAFFLED: Yes, I do. That he wants to take the food you prepare home to enjoy the next day (I presume — unless he intends it to be a midnight snack) is a compliment. However, since it bothers you, tell him that if he isn’t going to eat it with you, your offer is rescinded.

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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.