My husband and I have been pretending to be poor, and it is actually working out very nicely. We started this whole affair because my family views anyone with money as a walking ATM.

We received a decent inheritance a few years ago, and almost immediately, family members suggested that we divide it and help everyone out. To avoid constant pleas for money, we decided to pretend we were struggling.

It began with little steps and evolved into a full-fledged act. We explained that we couldn’t afford to go out to supper or pay our bills. My family believed it and felt awful for us. They offer us clothing, canned goods, and even money.

My mother once noticed me driving a new automobile. She froze before gently approaching and asking where I got the money for it. I stated that it was a rental for a company event. She didn’t appear convinced, and I realized our act was becoming more difficult to maintain. Should we tell them the truth or continue to pretend?