DEAR ABBY: I have just learned that my older sister, "Lindy" (who is currently living with our parents), has been married for two months. I'm the only one who knows. Lindy's husband moved out of state to take a temporary job.
I know if my parents knew, they'd be upset and would no longer allow her to live with them. Their position is if you're old enough to get married, you should be financially independent. As it stands, she is currently on their medical insurance, pays no rent and is attending school on their dollar.
She and her husband had planned to keep this a secret from everyone. I just found out, and it makes me sick. She's getting a free ride at my parents' expense.
I promised Lindy I'd keep her secret, but I think what she's doing is wrong and has the potential to hurt my parents financially and emotionally. I am tempted to tell them anyway. How do you think I should handle this? -- I'VE GOT A SECRET IN UTAH
DEAR GOT A SECRET: You should strongly encourage your sister to level with your parents for the reasons you stated. But do not betray her confidence because if you do, she will never confide in you again. It's not as though Lindy is on drugs, unmarried and pregnant or in a life-threatening situation. Your parents will find out eventually, and she'll face the music then.