Building a connection with our partner’s ex can be quite challenging, especially when it concerns their child. Emma, our reader, is dealing with a rather uncomfortable situation. She recently got excluded from her boyfriend’s son’s birthday celebration simply because she declined to have it hosted at their own residence. She reached out to us, looking for guidance in her difficult situation.

“I’ve been in a relationship with my partner, Carl, for a solid 2 years now. His little boy is about to celebrate his seventh birthday. Marla, Carl’s ex-wife, thought our home would be the perfect venue for their son’s birthday party. She loved how big and spacious it is. She plans to invite 25 of her son’s friends.

I declined the offer because I was concerned about the potential damage that children could cause to our beautiful and costly all-white furniture. I even proposed a perfect location for the party.

Marla became extremely angry, asserting that this is her son’s home and that I have no authority to dictate what he can or cannot do there.

It’s frustrating that they decided to go with the venue I suggested for the party, yet I’m not allowed to be there.

It seems that Carl is hesitant to get involved in the situation between me and his ex-wife, but I can sense that he holds me responsible for my actions.

He said to me the other night, “Well, it’s best if you just don’t go to the party and let it go. Otherwise it’s only going to worsen the situation.”

However, I would love to be present alongside my boyfriend to celebrate his son. It’s a special occasion, after all.

In my opinion, Marla seems to be overreacting, which is quite surprising considering that I am part of the family. What do you think I should do?
Best regards, Emma”