I share a college dorm with a friend whose new “girlfriend” was constantly around, using my food, utilities, and space. When I complained, he brushed it off. Frustrated and ready to act, I decided to dig a bit before taking drastic measures.
After finding nothing on social media, I confronted him. He hesitated and then admitted she was actually his sister, who’d recently gone through a tough breakup and needed company. He hadn’t told me to avoid burdening me, thinking she’d only visit occasionally.
Relieved, embarrassed, and sympathetic, I suggested we set boundaries for her visits and offered to help her feel comfortable without impacting my space. We worked out a system that supported her and restored my peace.