My ex has been remarried for eight years, but I have never liked his rude and condescending wife. For our 18-year-old son’s graduation, I asked him not to bring her because her presence was not necessary on MY child’s special day.

He agreed, and everything felt good. But when the event ended, my son and his dad suddenly turned their backs and headed to their car. Confused, I reminded them that I was hosting a small party at my place.

My ex then said they were going to his house because his wife was throwing a big party to make up for her absence at the graduation.

I was even more shattered when my son suddenly declared, “You will never be able to get over the fact that Dad left you for her, Mom, and that is sad.” He added, “You’re my mom, but she’s also been my stepmom since I was 10.”

I was left in tears, all alone in that parking lot. Was I wrong in wanting to enjoy my son’s graduation party without having his stepmom ruin it?