It’s time to talk budget with beau

Dear Annie: I am a single mom of two children, ages 10 and 16. I have a good job, can make ends meet on my own, and consider myself very independent and self-reliant. I am in a relationship with a wonderful man. “Bill” also has a good job and a salary almost equal to mine. We love each other and have been living together for two years.

The problem is, how do I get Bill to contribute to our rent and utility bills without having to ask him directly? When I fall short on rent and ask him for money, he gladly gives me whatever I want with no hesitation. It bothers me that I have to ask him to help. Shouldn’t he automatically contribute without needing an engraved invitation? – Don’t Want To Be Confrontational

Dear Don’t Want: Bill should be proportionately responsible for the upkeep of the home, including rent, utilities, phone bills, groceries and everything else.

Every couple that lives together should sit down and work out a budget, incorporating both salaries. Stop playing passive-aggressive and speak frankly. You need to get this done.

Dear Annie: I read the letter from “No Name,” whose molester father, now in his 90s, still must be kept away from the children.

My father couldn’t be trusted with any child right up until his death. I also kept quiet because I was told no one would believe me and I would be tearing my family apart.

I only confronted them after my sister mentioned that her daughters develop yeast infections every time they stay overnight at Grandpa’s. Even in his 80s, Dad was still capable of hurting anyone who got in his way. The one consolation was that my sister stopped allowing him to babysit. – Also No Name

Dear Also: What a horrible situation. We hope you, your sister and the granddaughters have sought counseling to help deal with this nightmare.