I am 13 years old and am studying in High school. I always read your page in the newspaper first and find it really good.

I always feel sorry for the people with the terrible problems, but now I have a terrible problem myself.

Last week I was sitting with my family when my 18 year old cousin from London came in he looked at me weirdly and after meeting everyone he went outside. Later on when I went to get the guests some drink from the kitchen, he grabbed my arm and told me he loved me.

It really freaked me out. I never thought such a thing would happen. When i told my best friend she told me to go out with him, but I am really scared.

What should i do? Do you think he is too old for me?

Please Massi you are the only one who I trust and whom I feel brave enough to tell.

M.H.S

Blackburn

MASSI SAYS,

I'm sure the incident must have been very distressing for you. It is important that you tell someone in your family because it is wrong for your cousin to do this to a 13-year-old.

There must be someone in your family like an aunt, sister or your parents whom you can speak to. But you musn't let him get away with this otherwise he may do such things to other children in your family.

You have to be brave but I am sure once you tell your side of the story- your family will be glad you told them. It is important that you try not to conatact this person otherwise he may think he his tactics have worked.

As for your friend's advice I think that is very foolish and stupid. Don't follow her advice on this matter. Friends do not always know what they are talking about.