Dear Abby:

My husband and I recently relocated. His only living relative, his sister, came to visit. She’s never married, has had a successful career, and is enjoying a comfortable retirement without kids.

During her stay, she gifted me a greeting card with a $50 Visa gift card inside. This was a bit surprising since she’s never given us anything financial before. She’s quite particular about money and usually insists on splitting bills when we go out.

I happened to comment on her paying for a $5 coffee for her brother, and she seemed quite offended. I had a feeling that would be the case. She even brought up the gift card, implying I hadn’t mentioned it to him, even though he was right there when she gave it to us.

We don’t really need her money, and I’m considering sending the card back to her, just to thank her for the gesture. What do you think I should do? – Thank you in Florida

Dear Thank you: You’re really thinking of returning the card? Instead of stirring up trouble with your sister-in-law, I suggest you apologize for the coffee comment. Rather than sending back the gift card, I think you should graciously accept it. Let’s avoid unnecessary conflict.

Dear Abby: I’m a widow. My partner passed away 10 months ago. We were together for seven years but never married. Recently, I’ve started seeing someone new who is 12 years younger than I am. We really care for each other and want to get married. However, there’s an issue—he’s still separated from his wife. He insists she doesn’t want him and he feels betrayed by her. While they’re divorced, I can’t shake the feeling that I’d be stepping into a complicated situation. Should I stay and see where things go, or walk away? – In the middle of Massachusetts

Dear In the middle: It sounds like your new relationship is still fresh. Given that it’s only been ten months since you lost your partner, it’s wise to pause before making major decisions. Have either he or his wife filed for divorce, or is he still in the thought process? If divorce papers are filed, you might not be the one in the middle. Divorce can be tough, and frankly, I’m surprised he’s thinking about remarriage so soon. Rather than rushing to a decision, take some time to see how your relationship develops.

Dear Reader: Happy Father’s Day to all fathers out there—birth fathers, stepfathers, adoptive fathers, foster fathers, grandfathers, and all caring men who step in as father figures.

PS: A special shout-out to those multitasking moms. I applaud you daily. – Love, Abby