DEAR ABBY >> My dear friend, “Sandra,” is married with two children. She and her husband have a 4-year-old son together and another son from her husband’s first marriage who is 14. The 14-year-old’s life is tough, much like Cinderella’s. Sandra treats him very badly. She has him doing all of the housework in their home, belittles him constantly and is very vocal about how much she dislikes him. Her 4-year-old can do no wrong.

The older boy’s mother has weekends with her son, but Sandra is open about not liking her either. I feel bad about how the boy is treated and want to talk to Sandra about it, but I don’t know how to bring up the sensitive subject and maintain my relationship with the family. Her husband is completely on Sandra’s side, so he does nothing to help the boy have a better life. Can you offer any advice?

— Feeling for Him in Washington

DEAR FEELING >> SOMEBODY has to intervene for that boy. Why does his uncaring father have custody? Could he stay with his mother full time? Are there any other relatives who could take him in? And why would you want a relationship with a heartless couple who are so emotionally abusive?

Because you apparently are the only person who cares at all about that boy, do a little research about possible alternative situations for him. However, if there are none, contact child protective services as a last resort. You won’t save your friendship with Sandra, but you may save that child.

Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.