Family boundaries and celebrations: Why exclusion from a dinner plan led to a difficult decision regarding a birthday event

I crossed over, took a seat at a small outdoor table obscured by a planter of ivy, and ordered a double espresso.

I checked my watch. I had thirty minutes of freedom while the Caldwells congratulated themselves on their successful ejection of the unsuitable wife.

It was time to go to work.

First, I drafted an email to Marco, the restaurant manager. It continue reading …