Girl Code: The Rule of Boys

Your girlfriend and you both see the same guy across the bar. He's cute and he's smiling toward your direction, but have no idea who he's really into, you or your friend? The thing is, there's a rule of guys as far as who gets you.

Rule 1: Exes. Never ever go after your friend's ex. That is, if you value your friendship with the girl. No matter how chill she is about it or how over him she seems like she is, it's not ok. It gets awkward. At times, people will ask her questions about your boyfriend instead of you. The relationship will be strained as he won't know how to act about you two together. No matter what, no matter the attraction you have with the guy, STAY CLEAR. It's not worth it. It's really not. Girlfriends stick around forever (or they try to.) Guys come and go. Also, your friend will respect you a lot more if you stay away. If you go for it, it shows you really don't care about your friendship and are willing to throw it into the trash. Don't expect her to hold your hand while you cry or pour you a glass of wine when you break up. By that point, you've thrown the guy and your friend in the trash.

Rule 2: Boyfriends. Do I really need to say this? Maybe I do. DON'T YOU DARE GO AFTER A GIRLFRIEND'S BOYFRIEND. What the heck are you doing? What in the world is giving you the idea that this is a good thing? NO. Just no. 100% off limits.

Rule 3: Casual dating. Again, this is kind of like exes or boyfriends. Just don't do it. If she's already gone on a first date with the guy, just leave them be. If there's no chemistry, there may not be chemistry and as long as they didn't have sex or there weren't really serious feelings, maybe you'll have a chance.

Rule 4: Crushes. This is where the territory gets murky. This is back to the bar scene. Analyze your love life and her love life. Have you been on a couple dates recently while she sits at home drinking wine and watching rom coms? Give her a break and let her try. Opposite? Tell her. "Hey, you've had a lot of dates. I'd like this one." Establish it openly. If not, things can get confusing and miscommunication could rule all. Everyone appreciates a girlfriend just being clear. Maybe she smiled back at him, but she's really not interested. You won't know until you talk.