err, wow. Truth is,he is homosexual, and interested in someone else. But as he's not out, I don't think he'd want to tell the girl that. (Note to self: I really need to figure out what the ramifications of homosexuality are in this society. I don't think it would be dangerous, but I'm not sure what the reaction would be at this point.)

Ooh! Gambling debts might be good to try - though I think the bride to be would just make it her mission to reform him. I think they might actually try the alternative suitor at some point (may need to find someone who can get the girl to shut up. I may be making her stupider than she should be, but hey, that's what NaNo's for, right?) Thanks!