Dear Christine,
My letter is not about any personal love problem but about a situation concerning my nephew – whom I really love.
I am a citizen of the United States, but I spend at least two months in the Caribbean. I read your newspaper online every day and always make it a point to read Dear Christine. The advice you give is sound – even if it is not readily accepted by some. Here is the situation.
My nephew is 30 years old and lives with me. Last year he met a young woman who was 17 years at the time and completing her final year in school.
From the time he brought her to the house, I sensed trouble. First, I felt she was too young and should be dating men closer to her age. Secondly, I learnt that she and her parents do not get along.
Christine, I am very concerned right now and would like to protect my nephew. I spoke with him on more than one occasion and he told me everything between the two of them was alright.
What I failed to tell him is that since she has been coming to the house – sometimes when I am not there – I have missed a valuable pair of earrings and a watch. I know sometimes I put things down and forget where I have placed them.
However, I also know I have always been in the habit of placing my jewellery on my vanity.
Right now, I don’t know if I should talk to him about this it or leave the subject alone. I do not want any bad blood to exist between my nephew and me, but I feel I should say something.
What would you recommend I do?
– B.L.
Dear B.L.,
You need to mention to your nephew that you’re missing your earrings and your watch and let him form his own conclusions.
Do not go to him accusing the young woman of taking them. If you are sure you want to take it further, you can call in the police.
From what you’ve told me, you’ve already expressed your concerns about her to him and he is of the view that all is well between them. Leave them alone. If your nephew has to learn his lesson the hard way, so be it.
Also, this young woman must now be 18 years old and that makes her a consenting adult.
– CHRISTINE
