AutumnMama…...can you explain , specifically, why you are afraid/uncomfortable in telling him no"?
I realize that you two do work together....but, is there any way you can minimize how much actual contact you have with him?
I am thinking that the less, the better....
Is it possible that he will say demeaning things to you, if you actually tell him "no"? Or, that the telling him "no" will make the fact that it is over so much more final and real? Or, some other dynamic that you can explain?
I just feel like it will contribute to your peace of mind, much more, if you can understand why you are still reluctant to be direct and honest with him about your boundaries....