Dear Aida,

One of the most confusing experiences in relationships is this:
feeling deeply wanted by someone who does not actually see you.

It feels like connection.
It feels like closeness.
It feels like being chosen.
But underneath the surface, something essential is missing — something your heart will eventually notice.

There is a world of difference between being admired and being seen.

It is easy to mistake one for the other, especially when you’re young, especially when someone’s attention feels warm and immediate.

But admiration and being seen live in entirely different universes.