DEAR ABBY: A co-worker, “Erin,” has been allowed to work from home since the COVID-19 pandemic, while the rest of us came back to the office. We function alongside each other much like a small family. We have no drama, no office politics and an overall great atmosphere. Erin’s absence has caused a strain on our team and has fueled resentment. Many feel it’s unfair, although these feelings have not been shared with Erin.

It so happens that Erin has accepted a new job and hasn’t told our boss because she’s worried about how the boss will react. When I found out, I did tell the boss even though Erin told me not to. So now I am caught in the snare of my own little trap of deceit. Advice? — TANGLED WEB IN NEW MEXICO

DEAR TANGLED WEB: I’m sorry you didn’t mention what the benefit structure is at your company. Erin took a job on the Q.T. while still on your boss’s payroll. In the state where I live (California), that would be a reason to fire her. I do not regard enlightening your boss about what Erin did as deceitful. I think what you did was the right thing to do and loyal to the company.

Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.