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Q: I am in a 6-month relationship and he can't tell me how he feels. I occasionally hear "I love you too" in response to my "I love you." We never talk about "us" or where the relationship is going. He is my age, and we have both been married before. His actions say I love you, so am I asking too much? -- Nancy, 47

Dr. Susan: You've found yourself a genuine stereotypical male, Nancy. The kind that "shows" how he feels but can't bring himself to "tell." Those magic words so many women long to hear simply aren't forthcoming from that sort of man. They feel uneasy when they try to put feelings into words. You might indeed be "asking too much." And not only because he won't say he loves you after only six months. After having survived a previous marriage, he probably wants to be sure before committing again. And the truth is, it sounds like he wants to take it slow and easy and not think too far ahead. That longing women often have for dissecting the relationship, opening it up to see what makes it tick and figure out if it's going in the "right" direction? It's a relationship killer for some men. It makes them feel pressured. Right now, your guy is getting his intimacy needs met. You aren't. But if you hang around awhile and pay close attention, you may actually that find his deeds speak louder than his words. It may not be perfect, but what is?