DEAR ABBY: I have had this friend, "Dina," for about five years. It took me a while to notice, but now I realize she calls me only when she needs something -- a shoulder to cry on, a favor or, more recently, someone to brag to about her "good fortune."
Dina's "fiance" (I'll call him "Ethan") has finally divorced his wife to be with her. He has physically and emotionally abused Dina in the past, and continues to use drugs. I have loaned her money and helped her out in more ways than I can count.
Ethan recently got a big settlement, so Dina had $10,000 worth of plastic surgery done and took a trip to the Caribbean. But she has never once offered to repay me what she owes. She has also never been to my new house, not even for the housewarming. She says I live "too far," although it's only 20 minutes from her place.
Dina's wedding is scheduled soon. I don't want to attend because I think Ethan is an abuser -- and besides, it's "too far." She keeps calling, and I just let the machine pick up. I don't want to invest any more in this friendship, but I don't know what to do. Advice, please. -- MS. L. IN SEATTLE
DEAR MS. L: Tell Dina that it's time to repay the money you loaned her. After that, I predict your problem will be solved.