I have just found out that my best friend's partner has been lying to her. He has told her that he is single and that she means everything to him. Ever since she started seeing him she spends less time with me.

However, I know that he is in fact married and that, although separated, he still sees his ex-wife.

I also know that he has been to prison and that he has been charged with beating up a man. He also uses her all the time and is always driving her car around. She told me once she had given him some money because he wanted to start a business.

Should I tell my friend about what I know and what I think about him? She seems otherwise happy and the last thing I want to do is hurt her or spoil things.

CB Burnley

MASSI SAYS,

Are you certain that this information is true? If you are, I think you have to tell your friend. Be prepared for her to be angry, though. People often react like this to bearers of bad news.

That said, she'd be even angrier if she were to stay with this man and subsequently find out, following problems, that you knew he was no good.

You must be sure of the facts, though. Is it possible that this is no more than gossip from someone who might be jealous of her newfound happiness?

She may well accuse you of being the jealous one when you tell her. Don't do anything unless you're 100% certain and do it gently because it is bound to hurt her, whether it is true or not.