ArcaMax

DEAR HARRIETTE: Yesterday, I went to Target to do some shopping. I paid the cashier in cash, and instead of giving me $2 in change, she gave me $200. I usually don't check my change, especially when it's supposed to be such a small amount, so I didn't realize until I was already back home that I was given the wrong change back. I don't live very far from Target, so it wouldn't be that much of a hassle to give the money back; however, since Target is a billion-dollar company, is it even worth it? I could really use the money to help with groceries this month, and I know they aren't going to miss $200.

Part of me feels like this might be a blessing during a tight financial time, but another part of me feels guilty, especially knowing that the cashier could potentially get in trouble for the mistake. I don't want someone else to suffer over an honest error, but I also feel like returning the money won't make a dent in a corporation that large. Am I overthinking this? Is it my responsibility to go back and correct the mistake, or is this just one of those situations where I quietly move on? -- Return the Money

DEAR RETURN THE MONEY?: Let your conscience be your guide. As much as you may need extra money, don't take what isn't yours. You are right that the cashier who inadvertently gave you the wrong change is probably being docked as you read this. For that worker -- who likely makes minimum wage -- $200 is a lot of money. Go back to the store. Speak to a manager and explain the situation. Offer the money back.

DEAR HARRIETTE: I have been talking to this guy for about three weeks now. We have gone on a few dates and have gelled well with each other. Although I am enjoying my time with him, I like to take things slow to ensure we are headed in the right direction. To my surprise, he has begun to introduce me as his boyfriend -- not only in public, but to his friends as well. Obviously, I do not want to embarrass him, so I do not call it out in the moment.

He is a nice guy and treats me well, but I am not ready to consider him my boyfriend. How do I communicate this to him without seeming cold? I think it is important for him to understand where I am in our relationship. He's a sentimental guy, and I don't want to hurt his feelings in the process. -- Not There Yet

DEAR NOT THERE YET: Have a chat with him privately. Tell him you have noticed that he has claimed you as his boyfriend, which is nice, but premature. Use this opportunity to discuss what a committed relationship looks like for you. What do you need before you feel like you have reached that place? Perhaps the addition of time, getting to know each other better and figuring out if you are a good fit are things that will help you to be ready for the commitment that he is claiming now.

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(Harriette Cole is a lifestylist and founder of DREAMLEAPERS, an initiative to help people access and activate their dreams. You can send questions to askharriette@harriettecole.com or c/o Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.)

Copyright 2026, Harriette Cole

COPYRIGHT 2026 Andrews McMeel Syndication. This feature may not be reproduced or distributed electronically, in print or otherwise without the written permission of Andrews McMeel Syndication.