DEAR ABBY: I've been dating "Collin" for nine months. I fell for him hard and fast. My problem is I recently met his former girlfriend, "Patty." She has a 10-month-old son. Abby, I've done the math. I suspect Collin is the father. He told me he broke up with Patty 10 months before we met. I asked Collin if he is the baby's father, and he said he "didn't think so," because Patty never mentioned it to him.
I don't think Collin really wants to know –- but I do! This is driving me crazy. Should I ask Patty if Collin is the father of her child? Help! -- SUSPICIOUS HEART IN NEW HAMPSHIRE
DEAR SUSPICIOUS: By all means ask Patty who the father is. It's a fair question, and one that could affect your future with Collin romantically and financially. If he is the daddy, he may be required by law to support the child at least until he is 18. And if he's not the father, it will put your mind at ease.