DEAR MISS MANNERS: My children were born six years apart. I had a miscarriage in between their births, which is no one's business.
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At a new job, when asked about my family, a co-worker I barely knew asked me if the children "have the same father" -- apparently due to the six-year gap. Yes, they do have the same father, but it is none of her business.
I was stunned and answered "yes" to the intrusive question. But should I have answered at all?
GENTLE READER: If it were Miss Manners, she would be tempted to say, "I have no idea -- I'd have to check my diary," just to see the look on the co-worker's face.
You may not want to do that. A milder version would be to ask coldly, "Just what are you suggesting?"