Dear Abby: I respect my niece’s privacy, but her boyfriend’s secrecy worries me
Dear Abby: I respect my niece’s privacy, but her boyfriend’s secrecy worries me
Publish Date: 2026-06-03 06:10:00
Source Domain: www.al.com
Dear Abby: Our niece became acquainted with a man through a website. They have been “dating” for more than four years now. Here is the thing: He refuses to be introduced. With one exception, none of her family or friends has met her boyfriend.
My wife and I have invited them to our home, but they have turned down all offers. He has conveniently been elsewhere at family events, such as her child’s wedding, birthday parties and holiday meals. Oddly, she has met his family and keeps up with them on social media.
I have discussed this with others in the family and have been told by some that “it’s her life.” (No argument there.) I respect their privacy, but if her family has meaning to either of them, shouldn’t we meet him?
— Ignored Uncle in Tennessee
Dear Uncle: It does seem odd that with “one exception” no one in the family has met your niece’s boyfriend. Because this is so concerning to you, perhaps you should pick up a phone and discuss this with her. Is there something that she is hiding, such as cultural or religious differences? Is there an age disparity? Could the gentleman be incarcerated? There is always a reason. You won’t know unless you ask.
Dear Abby: Should I confront my wife’s secret behavior?
A husband wants to confront his wife about her visits with her ex. Canva stock image
Dear Abby: My wife of seven years secretly visits her ex-husband on multiple occasions. She visits him with and without his spouse present. However, she forbids me from speaking to or visiting any woman from my past unless she is present.
My wife suffers from major depression. She’s on medication but refuses to see a counselor. Her family has informed me that she was unfaithful to spouses prior to me. I am faithful to her. The person she visits is a friend she has known for years. Should I look the other way, or am I entitled to be upset about the situation?
— Upset in Connecticut
Dear Upset in Connecticut: You are entitled to be upset. The woman to whom…
