Q.   I've been told the man I love is having an affair with a colleague.  I never had a reason to doubt him before but a family member (who doesn't like him) told me the news, saying they'd heard it from someone else.  I can't confront him as he's working abroad.  What should I do?


A.   It's not confrontation you need now, only information.  If you can't visit him, send an email or a letter expressing warm affection and trust, not angry suspicions.  The speed and tone of his reply should tell you more than any spiteful gossip who dislikes your man.  Yes, love is risky.  Love can betray.  And love can hurt like hell.  But until there is evidence of wrongdoing, love deserves the benefit of the doubt.