We had been talking about his most recent visit with his mother, one he had begun with cautious optimism, hoping that if he explained himself just a little more clearly this time, she might finally understand how her comments affect him. Instead, the interaction followed a familiar pattern. She minimized his feelings, and immediately redirected the conversation to her own stress. When he tried to point this out, she ended by accusing him of being "too sensitive. Must be from your father's side."
Most recently he has decided that I am having an affair with Clara, the (happily married heterosexual) woman next door. While Clara and I are good friends and I enjoy her company, there is nothing romantic between us. He is furious with me and has all but cut off his friendships with the kids next door, refusing to step foot inside their home even though our families used to eat together once or twice a week.
Lorraine: I'm so hurt that you said you did not want me to bring Joe, my significant other, to your rehearsal dinner and wedding. I can't believe you would do this to me. Stephanie: Mom, I've explained this to you before. Our wedding is about Joshua and me. It's a once-in-a-lifetime event. Joe is a stranger to us, and we don't want him there. Lorraine: But I was hoping you could meet him and get to know him.
