Son’s partner reneges on promise

Dear Abby: My 44-yearold son is a long-haul driver. His girlfriend has 14-year-old and 17-year-old daughters, who are both high-functioning autistic. My son thinks they should have chores because they need to learn to live independently. This is the biggest argument they have.

They don’t clean their room or pick up after themselves. My son has told his girlfriend that if they don’t learn how to do it now, they won’t know once they move out.

She receives child support for the girls and works part time. She doesn’t think she should help pay for things “because he makes good money.” But these girls are not his. They agreed when she moved in that she would pay half the expenses. What do you think of this situation?

Disgusted in Minnesota

Dear Disgusted: Your son’s girlfriend promised before she moved in that she would pay half the expenses. She has reneged on her promise, and your son has allowed it. This woman is not only irresponsible, she’s a terrible parent by fostering her daughters’ dependence. If you have shared your feelings with him and he has chosen to tolerate the status quo, then quit wasting your breath. It is his life and HIS CHOICE.

Dear Abby: I’m a 40-yearold wife and mother, married for 23 years. I never even thought of another man until a few months ago. Then, boom! It happened. I have fallen in love with my boss, “Tony.” He is four years younger than my husband, and he’s married. When I told him how I feel, at first he was shocked and not very interested. Now he’s had time to think about it, and he’s starting to show some interest.

I am afraid of what may happen if he asks me out. What should I do? Should I go out with him? I’m so crazy about Tony that it hurts. I think about him all the time and even dream about him. Please tell me what to do.

Miserably in Love in Missouri

Dear Miserably In Love:

Lady, you are playing with fire. Recognize that if you follow through with starting an affair with your boss, it’s likely to end up hurting four people, including you. The person most likely to lose out, emotionally and financially, is you. If you are unable to regain your emotional balance, quit your job.