[Dewymorning]

Exactly. I don't think the fade away method is wrong in my situation.

Do you have to lie?

Maybe you could just say "I have other things on I would rather do"

You don't have to tell him there is a relationship in the picture. Just give him the idea you ain't so interested in his company anymore.

Though, I leave this up to you. I don't know how easily he flips out, and I don't know all the circumstances.