I am convinced that Duncan is writing about being an intellectual whore (see the Ladder Theory in Google for a better explanation). This is someone who is essentially wanted for his shoulder to cry on, but not much else. My guess is that poor Mr. Sheik has done his time in that capacity (he wasn't always cool, was he?)
Women who do this to men often understand her 'partner's' expectations but purposely steer the relationship away from anything that might become romantic while taking advantage of the attention given. At least in this instance, the woman does tell him like it is, ie, 'You're a great friend'...
Basically, if a guy hears, "But... You're a good friend..." it's the kiss of death for the hope of any kind of sexual relationship.
I am convinced that Duncan is writing about being an intellectual whore (see the Ladder Theory in Google for a better explanation). This is someone who is essentially wanted for his shoulder to cry on, but not much else. My guess is that poor Mr. Sheik has done his time in that capacity (he wasn't always cool, was he?)
Women who do this to men often understand her 'partner's' expectations but purposely steer the relationship away from anything that might become romantic while taking advantage of the attention given. At least in this instance, the woman does tell him like it is, ie, 'You're a great friend'...
Basically, if a guy hears, "But... You're a good friend..." it's the kiss of death for the hope of any kind of sexual relationship.