Protip: For an economical alternative to maids and nannies, consider adding a poly girl with low self-esteem to your household staff.

Dear Prudence,

Last year, I became involved in my first poly relationship with a couple, Frank and Linda. To be honest, my attraction was mostly to Frank, but I decided to give this relationship a chance even though Linda was always a bit more distant with me. We settled into a routine. Frank and Linda have a daughter, Marcie, and because of my schedule, I've been able to pick up Marcie from school and help around the house a bit. I felt like we were a family. Recently, Frank and Linda brought someone else, Chelsea, into the relationship. As a result, I've been sidelined.

I still pick up Marcie from school and help around the house, but otherwise, Frank and Linda spend very little time with me. I feel both of them, most of all Linda, are more attracted to Chelsea and like her better. I resent Chelsea a lot. When I brought this up, they accused me of being “needy” and “close-minded.” I feel betrayed, but this is my first poly relationship and I worry that maybe they are right that I'm looking at this the wrong way. I don't want to be a “clingy” girlfriend. On the other hand, if all I'm doing is vacuuming and running errands for Frank and Linda, I don't think that's a real relationship. I don't even know how to discuss this with them again as the one time I did they blew me off.

—Trapped In a Love Square