When we talked last Saturday (April 20), he "jokingly" used words like "clingy/needy/pushy" to describe my actions. I was shocked! Never say myself like that, but it was a wake-up call to STOP DOING IT. I realize that the need for validation is my issue, and I don't want to lose him so I'm seriously working on this. I'm proud to say that I feel very balanced and have not had the urge to call/text since our conversation. The "bet" that I won't be the first one to contact is something I feel strongly about, and I want him to see that I can keep my word. He wants me to lose, but I'm stubborn enough to know that he needs space. I just hope I'm doing the right thing. One of two things will happen: He'll stay, or he'll go!