Jackie, 44, has been seeing Robin, 46, who seems too good to be true. She has looked but hasn’t found any “dark side”. Yes, he has a divorce behind him — but does that mean that something is wrong with him? Jackie is divorced too.

You would think her friends would be happy that she has found someone sweet and kind, who isn’t a doormat and is successful without being arrogant. He’s also great with her children. What’s not to like?

Unfortunately, you would be wrong in thinking that everyone is happy for her — after all, human nature dictates that he can’t be quite that fantastic.

The debate has started between her friends. I am one of the few who think that Jackie should enjoy things. Others claim that no man can be that perfect. Now Jackie is in two minds — should she enjoy his company or be paranoid that something dark lurks beneath? Professional and personal experience tells me that some people look for trouble where it doesn’t exist — or at least, where no real trouble exists. I am convinced that Jackie should be happy with Robin but also acknowledge that she is in the first flush of passion and ignoring potential niggles.

My advice is to enjoy something good but don’t make a solid commitment until well into a relationship. That gives both partners a chance to discover the differences on which they may need to compromise, and allows them to see if they communicate well and whether their initial expectations were unrealistic. Many strike lucky and get someone who is as good as gold. And even if a partner reveals something annoying or an aspect that requires compromise, it’s probably not something that can’t be overcome.

So, too good to be true? No, it is simply true that he is a good partner.

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