Man’s behavior bothers wife

Dear Abby: Sometimes when my husband has been drinking, he does things I consider inappropriate with his cousin and childhood friend “Jasper.” The most recent incident involved my husband pulling down his pants and showing Jasper his private parts.

To me, Jasper seems slightly uncomfortable, but he just laughs it off. When I confronted my husband about it, he said I was overreacting and he was “just messing around.” I don’t think he’s gay, but it almost feels like he is cheating on me. Am I overreacting, and what should I do?

Dear Confounded: Your husband’s immature behavior “sometimes when he has been drinking” is EXTREMELY inappropriate. Listen to your gut and get to the bottom of this because it appears you are married to a problem drinker who may need help.

Dear Abby: A few years ago, my mom and I started a book club. For the most part, it’s been a lot of fun. But one member, “Maeve,” has to be the smartest person in the room no matter the topic. She often belittles other members she considers less educated than she is. She also frequently doesn’t read or finish the book.

Abby, would it be terrible to ask her to leave the book club? Every other member has complained to either me or my mom about Maeve. What should we do?

Dear Book Addict: Talk privately with Maeve. Tell her if she can’t keep up with the reading and contribute in a positive manner – the reason the club was formed – she should withdraw.