I have a 15-year-old daughter, Katie, from a previous relationship. My husband, Adam, has raised her as his own for the 9 years we’ve been married. Our family is usually happy, except when Adam’s 17-year-old daughter, Willa, is around. She lives out of state with her mom but causes drama and often clashes with Katie during visits.

This year, Willa is in town for Adam’s birthday, and he invited her to the party we’re hosting at his favorite restaurant. Everything was fine until yesterday when I overheard Adam asking Katie to skip the party because Willa would be there. He explained that he wanted to avoid tension and promised Katie a separate celebration later.

I was stunned and furious. In my anger, I canceled the party without telling Adam, and he still thinks it’s happening tonight. I feel heartbroken and unsure if I overreacted. Any advice on handling this situation would mean a lot.

Sincerely,
Sandra