Annie’s Mailbox: Stepmom-to-be may be abuser

Dear Annie: My brother’s wife died two years ago while giving birth to her youngest daughter. She was a terrific woman and a great mother. She left behind two other daughters, ages 8 and 4.

My brother, “Alex,” is now engaged to “Elizabeth,” a 24-year-old woman. Annie, when I first met Elizabeth, I thought she was a wonderful person who truly connected with the girls. I later found out from my oldest niece that Elizabeth hits and screams at them and says terrible things about their mother when Alex isn’t around. When my brother is present, Elizabeth kisses and hugs the girls, and calls them “sweethearts” and “angels.” When the girls try to tell their father how mean his girlfriend is, he says they are making it up because they don’t want him to replace their mother.

Annie, it’s obvious Alex doesn’t believe his daughters, but I have never known them to lie. I also doubt my brother will believe me because he is blinded by Elizabeth’s beauty and the act she puts on. Now my niece tells me Elizabeth is pregnant. I can’t imagine how she will treat the new baby.

I want to protect my nieces. Can you tell me how to make sure these kids are loved and safe? – Worried Aunt

Dear Aunt: Please urge your brother to get family counseling before making Elizabeth a stepmother to these girls. Whether or not your nieces are being honest, there is obvious hostility, and the sooner it is dealt with the better. Once Elizabeth has a child of her own, there is a great possibility that the situation will deteriorate for your nieces. Make sure to stay in close touch with them, and if you see evidence of abuse, report it immediately.