DEAR MISS MANNERS: My children were born six years apart. I had a miscarriage in between their births, which is no one’s business.

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?”

Please send your questions to Miss Manners at her website, www.missmanners.com; to her email, [email protected]; or through postal mail to Miss Manners, Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.