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Dear Annie:

I have known "Celia" for five years and love her like a sister. A few months ago, I found out that Celia's husband is having an affair with a former employee. I know he meets this woman at various out-of-the-way places and that he leaves work in the middle of the day to see her on her lunch hour. We live in a small town, and I'm not the only one who sees what's going on. I imagine Celia suspects more than she is saying and is trying to keep it quiet out of concern for her children.

Celia used to be so energetic and have such a spark¹ for life, but now she seems burned out all the time. I want her to know that I am here for her, but don't want to embarrass² her or lose her friendship. What should I do? － U.S.A.

Dear U.S.A.:

Celia is probably aware that her husband is cheating, but for whatever reason, she has chosen not to address it. Please don't force her to deal with this before she is ready. If you want to be a good friend, tell Celia she seems tired and depressed³ and if she needs someone to listen, you are available. You also might suggest that she seek professional help. The rest is up to her.

affair  (n.)   婚外情；恋情

various  (adj.)   各式各样的；种种的

out-of-the-way   隐密的；偏僻的

to imagine  (v.)   想像；推测

to keep something quiet   对…保持沉默；三缄其口

energetic  (adj.)   精力充沛的；活力十足的

spark  (n.)   生气；活力

to be burned out   耗尽（热情、精力等）

to be aware   留意；注意