DEAR CHRISTINE: Don’t want to be made a fool of

Dear Christine,
In a few weeks’ time I’ll be returning home after what has been three wonderful months in your beautiful island. This trip was made for two reasons.
One, to make me overcome the grief of my husband some two years ago and two, to help to make a decision with regards to someone I have grown attached to who has asked me to live with him.
He is also suggesting I sell the small property my husband left me and join with him in purchasing another place where he says we can live in one part and rent a small flat that is part of the property.
I have tried on a few occasions to learn more about him but he says that all of his family is abroad.
He tells me that I must trust him and he won’t let me down, but I am afraid of being made a fool.
I would like to get your opinion on this matter and I would appreciate an early answer as I’ll soon be homeward bound.
May I once say again how much I’ve enjoyed my stay here and thank the many people who have greeted me with courtesy and kindness.
– SW
Dear SW
First let me say I am thrilled that you chose Barbados as your vacation spot and that you’ve been having a fabulous time here.
Regarding the matter at hand, it’s not wise for you to sell your property to move in with a man whom you hardly know anything about.
Another thing which concerns me is, why is he asking you to move in with him, and has not mentioned marriage instead? If you’re good enough to buy a home with him and move in with him, aren’t you good enough for him to marry you?
The fact that he cannot produce relatives of any sort is also suspicious to me. Aren’t you wondering who this man is? You know nothing at all about his origins.
It is unusual not to produce relatives at all, but then he must have friends of some sort. Have you met any of them?
I would advise you to be very cautious and keep your eyes and ears opened.
I suppose he seems nice in many ways, but that is not enough for the kind of commitment he is suggesting. Deal right and play your cards right. Don’t be pushed into doing things you’re uncomfortable with.
– CHRISTINE