Finding out that your partner has slept with your best friend is the stuff of nightmares and something I don't think anyone would wish upon even their greatest of enemies.
But it is something that sadly happens, with people left devastated over the level of trust that has been broken by two of the closest people in their life.
Not only do you feel like you have lost your partner who you could have been planning your life with (or planned if you've the likes of children and a mortgage tying you together), but your relationship with one of the closest confidants outside of your relationship has been shattered.
Louanne Ward is an expert in matchmaking and dating, with the Australian taking to social media on a regular basis to offer her best tips and tricks when it comes to finding the right person while also making sure you aren't being played.
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In one recent clip, Ward told people to 'get out now' if their significant other says one particular line that gets her alarm bells ringing. The advice is subtle, but so is the language used, so it is worth paying attention.
Now in an Instagram video this week, Ward has issued six warning signs when it comes to your mates and your partner getting a little too close.
"Ever feel like your best friend is a little TOO interested in your partner? Some behaviours are harmless, but others might suggest you have a problem brewing," she writes.
Taking the side of your partner too much
The first warning sign for Ward is your friend taking the side of your partner a little too much and too quickly.
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She explains: "You’re venting about a small argument or frustration, and instead of supporting you, they defend your partner. Constantly taking their side without offering you the normal support they would."
Always sitting close to your partner
The second is about where they position themselves in a social situation. And surprise surprise, it's near your significant other.
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"In group settings, notice if they always end up right beside your partner, sitting close, standing nearby, making a point to stay physically close," Ward says.
Too much enthusiasm
Being a bit too enthusiastic could well be a red flag, with Ward saying: "They might laugh a little too hard or long at your partner’s jokes, or prompt them to share stories and offer opinions. When you go to contribute the light is quickly shone back on them making you feel left out."
Acts of service
A fourth major issue is something Ward calls the 'little acts of service'.
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"Ever notice how they fill your partner’s drink while forgetting to fill yours, fetch things, or do small favours just for them? These gestures may look innocent but reflex actions should never be ignored," she explains.
Over-the-top compliments
Ward also warns about over-the-top compliments and being a little too interested in your partner during general conversations.
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"They compliment your partner in front of you about what they are wearing or how good they look. And your constantly hearing 'you’re so lucky to have them'," she explains. "When you catch up they seem overly interested in what you’re partner is doing and the conversation keeps coming back to them."
On their own, Ward says you really have no reason to worry. But if you notice them clustering, and becoming more frequent, it could spell trouble.
Partner denying any issues
You should also be 'really worried', Ward says, when you bring it up to your partner and they completely deny noticing anything.
"Here’s the truth: everyone knows when someone is giving them special attention," she says.
"If your partner brushes it off, says you’re imagining it, or dismisses your feelings, that’s a MAJOR red flag. More than 50 percent of cheating happens with someone close to you."
Topics: Dating trends, Sex and Relationships, Community, Australia
Tom Earnshaw