DEAR ABBY: I am a 20-year-old woman whose parents divorced three years ago. (I'm an only child.) Recently I discovered that my father cheated on my mom throughout their marriage. His longtime mistress was a family friend I'll call Cindy.
I have grown up seeing Cindy at least once a week. She has always been pleasant and helpful -- whether she was teaching me to ride a bike or helping me study for my driver's permit. It wasn't until a year ago that I found out she and Dad are lovers. When Mom discovered their affair, she placed the blame solely on Dad.
My parents split up, and Dad left Mom for yet another woman, "Lynda," but he continues to see Cindy behind Lynda's back. Neither woman knows about the other. I still communicate with Cindy and see her occasionally. This upsets my father no end, because he's afraid I'll blow his cover. He's told me in no uncertain terms that he doesn't want me talking to Cindy.
I maintain that Dad brought Cindy into my life when I was just a kid. Is it fair for him to suddenly demand that we can't continue being friends? -- FOND OF DAD'S MISTRESS IN NEW HAMPSHIRE
DEAR FOND: Look at it this way: For years, while Cindy pretended to be a family friend, she helped your father betray your mother. Is that the kind of friend you can trust? I don't think so. Your dad may not deserve any medals as "Husband of the Year," but in this case, he might have a point.