V19 N34

The Answer Lady invites inquiries from
gentle readers on all manner of relationship
quandaries, matters of the
heart and ethics. If you’d like to send
a query, write to info@exitzero.us. Or,
simply sit back, enjoy a cup of coffee and contemplate
the wisdom herein.
Dear Answer Lady
I met a girl in the Ugly Mug a month or
so ago and we’ve hit it off pretty well. My
dad asked me to play a round of golf Sunday
because they were short a man. He introduced
me to the other two men, and I realized that the
one guy was the father of the girl I’m dating. He
started complaining about the guys she goes
out with and how he wishes she’d find someone
and “settle down.” I started sweating. Now
I wonder if I should just break up with her.
Naturally, I kept our relationship to myself.
Am I’m overreacting? — Cold Sweats
Dear Sweats
Duh! Yes, you are overreacting. Dads say
stuff like that all the time. What do you think
he’s going to do? Ambush you and drive you to
The Answer Lady
Wise answers to perplexing questions
the preacher? Ignore it. But you should tell your
girlfriend what happened so that neither of you
are blindsided should you run into him again
when you are with her. Nor do you know that
marriage is something she wants. The point of
dating is to find out what the other person is all
about. Forget about the father and concentrate
on the daughter. Take her to the Mad Batter for
a burger, cocktail and great music. But first,
wipe the sweat off your forehead.
Dear Answer Lady
My mother-in-law watched our house
while we were away. When I got back, she
had rearranged every piece of furniture in the
house. I was furious. My husband said to shut
up and he’d be glad to help me put it back. Still,
I feel like a stranger came through and touched
everything I own. She had no right to do that,
and I feel I must say something, or she’ll do it
again. Don’t you agree? — Invaded
Dear Invaded
Yes, you must say something but do it
gently. Your husband probably fears a turf
war starting over his mother’s interference.
Clearly, he has navigated these waters before.
That said, talking to her will get you nowhere,
but she should know you’re not going to ignore
this boundary crosser. Soften the blow by
taking her to Harbor View for a cocktail and
sushi. Start by simply asking why she felt
compelled to move the furniture. Expect some
criticism of your decorating skills. Smile and
try to zip it. And find someone else to watch
the house next time. Cheers!
September 30, 2021 EXIT ZERO Page 47