Latina

I recently met a man at a car service center who fixed my car and didn’t charge me. I was surprised, but then the following week, I returned for another repair, and he once again didn’t charge me, saying all he wanted was a hug and calling me beautiful. This seemed strange, especially since I felt I looked my worst. Why would he do this and only ask for a hug in return? What’s really going on here?

Look, at 60, you’re not turning heads like you used to, unless you’re some exception like Madonna. This dude at the mechanic shop? He’s probably seeing you as an easy mark. He’s flirting with you and playing the nice guy card to see if he can get his foot in the door. Guys who aren’t making much money—like a mechanic who doesn’t own the place—will sometimes look for a way to upgrade their lives. If you’re rolling up in a nice car, he’s already thinking, “Okay, she’s got money.”

And let’s be real—single women at 60 can sometimes crave companionship, and he’s betting on you being one of them. Don’t be that woman who gets suckered into buying him stuff or letting him freeload. Before you know it, he’ll be hinting about needing help with bills or worse, trying to move in. If you’re interested in him, fine, but don’t make it easy. Make him prove he’s not just after your wallet or a comfortable ride. Don’t fall for the sweet talk and compliments.

Bottom line: don’t be naïve. Guard your heart and your bank account, and don’t let loneliness make you do something you’ll regret. Be smart and watch your back.