Dear Prudence,
My coworker “Jake” and I have been associates (not really friends) for years. I have kept Jake at arm’s length because he is a bit of a gossip as one of his negative attributes. I try to see the good in all. I am very quiet about my personal life.
Recently, there was a black-tie fundraiser. Many people were talking about my date and how attractive she was—not to me, but behind my back. Jake came to my office and started asking personal questions like: Is that my lady, or are we just friends? I gave him a disapproving look, and he responded with a “Oh, that is personal?” He began telling me I shocked everyone. He also told me “someone” said they thought I was gay, and he alleges he played the role of defending me. I’m not the only one who has a problem with him. Is my cutting him off completely overreacting?
—Grudge Holder