Hi Meredith, I’ve been dating my boyfriend (who is a co-worker) for two years. For the most part, I was extremely happy with him and believed he was happy with me. However a few months ago he broke up with me. He claimed it was due to stress and his inability to deal properly with the end of his previous relationship.

I was completely blindsided and devastated by the breakup. He has subsequently apologized profusely and we are working things out. But I am extremely paranoid and insecure about our relationship now. I have a job in sales that requires a lot of travel. He is not a great communicator, doesn’t like making plans, and needs a lot of “alone time.” I find it very hard to trust him and I am constantly doubting his affections, what he is doing, and who he is with when I am away. I am struggling to determine how we can progress with our relationship.

These feelings of doubt and mistrust are making me miserable but I dread another breakup as I know I will be equally devastated. Should I just cut my losses with him and move on, or should I believe that he means it when he says he wants to be with me?

– Confused, Brookline