Dear John, The man I'm seeing is a very caring and positive person, and I enjoy being with him. I care about him, but I am not sure if the feeling is mutual because he has never said "I love you." I do not want to let go, but because of this, I am afraid I will be hurt later. —Waiting to Hear Those Words in Newport News, Va.

Dear Waiting to Hear, Some people find it hard to say, "I love you" for various reasons. He may be one of these people. Or, for him, the time may not be right yet. In any event, I've always believed that, when it comes to love, actions speak louder than words. You may not hear those three little words, but does he treat you with love and respect? There are men who will freely say, "I love you," but never do anything to prove it. If you like what you're seeing, give him time. You may well find that he was worth the wait.

Dear John, Recently I had an appointment with my physician, whom I've had for several years. The examination seemed to be a little more intimate this time. It felt wrong, yet, at the same time, wonderful! Now I can't seem to get my doctor off my mind. I know he's been wondering about me, as well. Neither one of us is married, nor I'd like to pursue this hunch. —What's Up, Doc? in Roswell, Ga.

Dear What's Up? I have to caution you that many women either fantasize or develop intimate attachments to their doctors. After all, he sees you as few men do. That's not to say that there wasn't some chemistry between the two of you. If you want to follow up on this feeling, it's only fair to both of you that you first discontinue being his patient. Of course, if it turns out you were wrong, you will lose him as a doctor.

Before making this decision, you may want to check out his availability. Ask him to meet you for a cup of coffee. While making conversation, you can ask what he did over the weekend, and then ask if he shared that experience with someone who is special to him. If he also feels this attraction, there is a good chance you'll find out. If your hunch is right, let him know that you are switching doctors, and then let fate take its course.

2013 John Gray's Mars Venus Advice. Distributed by Creators Syndicate. John Gray is the author of "Men Are from Mars, Women Are from Venus." If you have a question, write John in care of this newspaper, or by email at: www.marsvenus.com. All questions are kept anonymous, and will be paraphrased.