Hi Brian,

I did not get your message but I don't know if that was because of your phone or mine. I, too, have been having "issues." Anyway, while your lunch invitation is certainly appreciated, I am actually dating someone quite seriously and wouldn't feel comfortable. I wanted to give you a brief explanation at least but in no way wanted to do that in the presence of students. I hope you understand and I hope this in no way will result in any sort of awkwardness if we work together again. Thanks again for all of your support in our classroom!