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You more than likely didn't intend for it to happen. But things just transpired, and now you find that you have developed feelings for your best friend's ex. Though it may feel like true love, you may be wondering if this relationship is doomed from the start. No matter how you feel, one thing is definite, if you date your best friend's ex, your friendship will undoubtedly be strained. In fact, your friend may feel an overwhelming sense of betrayal. This could be heightened depending on how much information your friend shared with you regarding his or her relationship.

Friends tend to confide in each other, especially during times of stress. If your best friend confided their feelings, problems, and relationship issues that they experienced with their ex with you, they may feel a strong sense of betrayal if you suddenly find the person who caused them so much pain as a potential mate. The fact of the matter is, unless your best friend is made of steel and completely over their ex, you may lose your friendship if you decide to become involved in a relationship.

According to those who deal with etiquette, it is definitely not appropriate to date your friends ex, unless you are ready to sever the friendship. However, there are exceptions. It is entirely possible that your best friend may realize during the course of dating, that you may be better suited for the other person. If this is the case, then you should feel free to date the person in question, since you obviously have your friend’s approval. Sometimes, a friend may even end the relationship and try to set you up with the other person. However, for this to occur, your friend must be adamant that they have no feelings towards the ex, and you should feel completely comfortable that your friend is in favor of your dating the ex. If you are a true friend, you will honor your friend’s feelings before dating his or her ex.

One of the greatest hindrances to dating your friends ex comes from the fact that over a period of time, your friend may grow suspicious and wonder when you and their ex actually began to develop feelings for each other. Even if you and the ex haven’t been involved, your friend may begin to develop suspicions and believe that you and the ex were involved in a relationship while they were dating. This can put a serious strain on any friendship and can cause a great rift.

If your friend still has feelings for the ex, you can rest assured that there will be trouble on the horizon. There is no way around it, unless your friend is 100% over their ex, your getting involved in a relationship with him or her is only going to lead to a troubled friendship.