I don’t know the details here, but based on what you’ve shared, I think your husband likes this couple. That’s great because you like this couple. They seem to keep him company when you’re busy, and the woman’s hug suggests she appreciates his time.

A lot of people in my life hug everyone, especially people they’re excited to know. In fact, as a non-hugger, I’m constantly dodging people who hug everyone they see at the end of the night. Sometimes it takes me five extra minutes to leave a dinner because everyone is hugging everyone else.

There hasn’t been any lying here. No secrets, only shared activities. If you don’t feel comfortable with your husband doing social activities without you, please think about why. Friends are nice, and space can be healthy. You can’t be everything to each other.

I won’t say your feelings are justified, but they are useful – because they speak to the marriage, in general. You want to be in a relationship that feels good, even if one person is making new friends.

If you need to talk to a therapist about why you’re feeling anxious, do it. Exploring the discomfort might make the marriage stronger.

– Meredith

Readers? Would you be anxious about this hug?