Son, you are a beautiful person. One I would adore as a son in law. But you are still young, as is she. It doesnt sound like she is abandoning you...it sounds like she is an intelligent young woman with dreams and goals and aspirations...No wonder you want to keep her. But right now, you are attempting to trim her feathers. Wouldnt it be better to see her soar up in the sky, to achieve all that she so desires, to smile knowing she is right where she is supposed to be??? Your love for her is true, no doubt. So empower those you love. Your encouragement as a friend will be remembered for a lifetime. But if you attempt to cage her when she wants to be free...she will fly away.
Can you sacrifice a relationship for long term friendship?? She keeps coming back to you for reassurance, give her that and she will keep flying back to you for more if you selflessly give her what she needs. Time to grow into a wonderful person.
And by the way young man, make sure you do have friendships that encourage you to be all you aspire to be. So when you have grown into a well adjusted, intelligent, prosperous, every Mamma's dream Son in Law....your positive karma will bring someone able to give you as much love as you want to give.
May the Angels frolic in your dreams
Rana...age 46, single and happy
