9. I gained 5 pounds this week, and I really don't want you to see me like this.

8. The power went out, and my dog's afraid of the dark-I really shouldn't leave him on his own.

7. My boss just gave me this huge account, so I'm probably going to be working late for the next couple of months. But hey, when it's all over, I'll take you out for a real nice dinner.

6. Aunt Millie is going to be on "Who Wants to be a Millionaire" sometime in the next month. I'm her lifeline, and I need to be available. It's awful how they never tell you when they're going to call.

5. Can we make it another time? I'm on call at the suicide hotline tonight.

4. I think I'm coming down with an awful cold, and I'd really hate to give it to you. It's been going all around town, so take care.

3. We've recently switched cat food, and Socks is awfully depressed about it. I think we need to spend some quality time together.

2. My horoscope says Uranus is rising, so I don't think it's a good time to leave the house.

1. It's really not you; it's me. I mean, you're great, but the truth is I just got out of this relationship two years ago and I'm not ready yet.