Red lace, I know where you're coming from. I'm asian too and my parents are very similar. They stress that education is everything. But of course, I have little more freedom than her because I'm a boy and I also grew up here so my parent adapted to my needs. Her situation is similar to yours, she has told me how her parents are strict and even right now, her aunt is enforcing the same rules on her.

Goodguy and Chicayoshi, If any girl from western culture told me this (I'm not ready and want to focus on school), I would easily raise a BS flag and move on. But I'm having trouble believing that she's not ready. I respect her and her decision. But I'm not asking her to marry me! It's just a simple and small escalation from friendship. I myself am very busy. I have two jobs and work on Saturday and Sunday, and go to school Monday - Thursday. We always hang out on Friday. However, I'm still trying to find some time to make this work. It doesn't seem like she's putting any effort in to this.

She's a very sweet girl and cares about me. Recently(after my confession), I was involved in a motorcycle accident and so she made me some home remedies for my bruises that she learned from her mom. I really care about her and that's why I can't see her. The thing is, it hurts me to see her everytime and I don't think I can suppress my feelings and be her "friend." Everytime, I try telling her I can't see her, she starts crying.

I'm just having trouble believing her and I don't want to stick around and be her friend if nothing is going to happen.

Thanks for the input, it feels good letting this out.
_Terry